## 4 Discussions
### Evolution, Future Trends, and Open Research Areas in Blockchain-Based Data Storage
#### 4.4.5 On-Chain AI and Blockchain Integration  
The integration of artificial intelligence with blockchain has gained increasing importance in recent years. On-chain AI models have combined decentralized computing with blockchain-based data storage systems [159]. Projects such as Fetch.ai, Ocean Protocol, and SingularityNET have optimized blockchain-AI integration, leading to their merger under the Artificial Superintelligence Alliance in 2024 [188]. Additionally, projects like Chain-link, Polkadot, Cosmos, and Axelar have improved cross-chain data sharing, addressing interoperability challenges [179; 180; 181]. * _Enhancing Security and Automation_: The integration of AI and blockchain is playing an increasingly critical role in improving decision-making processes, detecting fraud, and ensuring data security in decentralized environments. AI models operating with blockchain-based smart contracts enable reliable computations and tamper-resistant data storage. Real-world applications include:
* Fetch.ai: A system that optimizes logistics, finance, and supply chains using blockchain-based AI agents [188]. * Ocean Protocol: A decentralized data-sharing protocol that allows AI models to train on encrypted datasets [188]. * SingularityNET: A marketplace for AI services that enables commercialization without relying on a central provider [188]. * IBM Watson and Hyperledger Fabric: AI-powered blockchain-based fraud detection models that analyze financial transactions to identify anomalies [159]. This integration enables AI models to perform reliable data processing, transparent auditing, and autonomous decision-making within decentralized systems. By 2025, blockchain-based data storage solutions are expected to play a crucial role beyond DeFi and enterprise applications, extending to IoT device security. Projects such as Helium Network [153], Chainlink [189], and IoTeX [190] have introduced new Layer-2 solutions focused on data privacy within the IoT ecosystem. This historical evolution highlights how blockchain-based data storage methods have undergone significant transformations in scalability, security, and flexibility. In the coming years, blockchain's impact is expected to expand exponentially across artificial intelligence, IoT, supply chains, and finance. Modular blockchain architectures will drive the development of more efficient and secure systems. Projects like EigenLayer [191], Celestia [192], and ZeroLayer [193] are set to shape the blockchain ecosystem by introducing innovations in data availability, restaking mechanisms, and Rollup-as-a-Service models. Furthermore, the adoption of blockchain technology in AI, IoT, supply chains, and finance is expected to accelerate, enabling faster, more secure, and energy-efficient infrastructures through cross-chain integration and Layer-2 advancements. * _Blockchain and IoT: Securing Smart Devices and Data Exchange_: IoT devices generate vast amounts of data, requiring secure, immutable, and decentralized storage. Blockchain integration enhances security by protecting against unauthorized data access and mitigating cyber threats. Real-world applications include the following:  
* Helium Network: A decentralized IoT connectivity network that enables secure device communication [153];
* IoTeX: Utilizes blockchain-based authentication protocols to ensure encrypted data transmission for IoT devices [190];
* VeChain: Uses IoT sensors to track products in supply chains, securing data with blockchain technology [103];
* Bosch XDK and Ethereum: Smart sensors integrated with Ethereum-based smart contracts provide real-time monitoring in industrial environments [22; 87]. Blockchain enhances security in IoT systems by eliminating central points of failure and increasing operational transparency.