In the past decade, data has been stored like oil, and we have become accustomed to comparing data to new oil, as it is collected and preserved in large quantities, then processed and utilized by a few.
However, slowly, this metaphor is becoming less and less appropriate; oil is more like a stockpiled resource, while now, data is becoming like electricity: it is not stored in a warehouse unused, but rather supports applications at any time, bringing new experiences.
Irys @irys_xyz emerged in this change. It aims to make data not just archived, but able to be directly invoked by programs, smart contracts, and even AI with logic and proof. In other words, data is no longer dormant files, but rather an active on-chain entity.
■The Evolution of Data: From Static Storage to Dynamic Programmability
Looking back at the development of blockchain, data storage seems to have remained at the stage of a safe, regardless of the technology used, the core function is to store well and not lose it.
But Irys raised a new question: what if data could not only be saved but also participate in work on its own?
■This idea has led to the concept of [Programmable Data Chain].
Imagine that what we upload is no longer a simple image or a piece of text, but a logical data unit.
It can remember its own origin (data traceability mechanism), interact with other data according to preset rules (supported by IrysVM), and even complete specific tasks under the command of AI. This transformation allows data to shift from being passively stored to being an entity that can be directly used and invoked.
■Data is no longer on hard drives, but in factories.
The logic of traditional public chains is [contract = code, data = input], the idea proposed by Irys is [data itself can also be programmed], which means that:
◇After data is put on the chain, it is not only stored, but can also be read, modified, charged, or authorized with its own rules.
◇The upload process comes with verifiable proof that can demonstrate the source and authenticity of the content.
◇AI and contracts can directly use this data on the chain, like calling a service.
In other words, the blockchain used to be more like a filing cabinet, while Irys wants to turn it into a factory where data is not passively stored, but can be used immediately.
■Technical Puzzle: Multi-ledger + IrysVM + Hybrid Consensus
◇Multi-ledger system:
It can be understood as a ledger with different functions, some specifically responsible for checking and verification, some responsible for long-term storage, and others that can set a storage duration, which means they don't need to be stored once expired. This way, both quality can be ensured and costs can be saved.
◇IrysVM:
This is Irys's own runtime environment, which is compatible with EVM contracts. More importantly, it is specifically designed for data. The contracts can not only read and write data but also invoke AI models or reasoning mechanisms, as if directly calling tools on the chain.
◇Mixed Consensus:
Combining PoW and staking mechanisms ensures data authenticity and reliability on one hand, while avoiding excessive centralization, allowing the system to operate stably in the long term.
■Community and Participation: More than Just Ranking
Irys has completed a $8.9 million seed round of financing (led by Framework Ventures) and is currently in the Alpha testnet phase, with the mainnet and TGE timing yet to be determined, but the community is already very active.
In addition to Kaito's Yapper Leaderboard, everyone can now directly go to the Irys Task Center (click: Enter), where the gameplay is more straightforward and simpler.
The task center allows you to play games, engage in social interactions, and upload data. Completing tasks will earn you XP, which will be synchronized with Galxe. The higher your points, the higher your rank on the leaderboard, and you can also unlock peripherals or surprise rewards.
Of course, breaking into the Top 1000 in the China region is a goal in itself, but a more meaningful way is:
Write a piece of data into Irys by hand, attach simple rules, and try to run a closed loop with AI. This exploratory process is the contribution that the community truly wants to see.
When data can truly flow freely on Irys, what gets illuminated first may not be a specific feature, but our new understanding of the value of information.
The real question to ponder is: if data were as readily available as electricity, what would you want to illuminate first?
#irys # blockchain data
![]()
