A recent Harris poll commissioned by Digital Currency Group (DCG) reveals that nearly three-quarters of surveyed Americans believe decentralized artificial intelligence is more likely to support innovation and progress compared to its centralized counterpart. This highlights a growing sentiment in favor of open and distributed AI development.
The poll, which surveyed 2,036 Americans aged 18 and over, released its findings on May 29. Key results include:
- 56% of respondents favored decentralized AI.
- 77% viewed decentralized AI as “more beneficial to society overall.”
- 67% believe centralized AI is likely more biased.
- 63% think centralized AI is more likely to benefit Big Tech companies and misuse user data.
According to Julie Stitzel, DCG’s policy vice president, “Three-quarters of Americans agree that the transformative power of AI would benefit more people if it wasn’t consolidated in the hands of a few major players.”

Why It Matters
This poll underscores a growing public awareness and concern regarding the concentration of power in the hands of a few tech giants when it comes to AI development. The preference for decentralized AI stems from a desire for greater transparency, fairness, and broader access to the benefits of AI technology. It reflects a potential shift towards a more democratized and equitable AI landscape.
Market Impact
The increasing interest in decentralized AI could significantly impact the crypto market. We could see:
- Increased investment in decentralized AI projects and platforms.
- Growth of blockchain-based AI solutions that prioritize data privacy and user control.
- Greater adoption of AI tools and services by individuals and smaller organizations, empowered by decentralized infrastructure.
Companies like SingularityNET and projects leveraging blockchain for AI, such as Fetch.ai, could see increased attention and adoption. The intersection of crypto and AI presents novel opportunities for innovation and disruption.
Expert Take
The trend towards decentralized AI is not just a technological shift; it’s a philosophical one. The public is increasingly wary of entrusting their data and future to centralized entities. The DCG poll simply confirms what many in the crypto space already believe: decentralization is essential for a fair and equitable future. I predict that we will see even greater integration of blockchain technology with AI, leading to more secure, transparent, and user-centric AI applications. It will be interesting to observe regulatory responses, as governments grapple with the implications of decentralized AI.
Actionable Insight
Traders and investors should keep a close eye on projects that are actively developing decentralized AI solutions. Look for platforms that prioritize data privacy, open-source development, and community governance. Research companies like SingularityNET ($AGIX), Ocean Protocol ($OCEAN), and Fetch.ai ($FET), and monitor their progress in advancing decentralized AI technology. Also, pay attention to regulatory developments and how they might impact the growth of this emerging market.
Conclusion
The DCG poll provides compelling evidence of a growing preference for decentralized AI among the American public. As concerns about bias, data misuse, and concentrated power continue to rise, the demand for transparent, fair, and accessible AI solutions will likely intensify. This trend has the potential to reshape the AI landscape, fostering innovation and creating new opportunities for growth within the crypto market. The future of AI may well be decentralized, powered by blockchain technology and driven by a desire for a more equitable and inclusive digital world.