Ethereum Launches Private AI Payment System with Zero-Knowledge Protocol
The Ethereum Foundation and Open Anonymity Project have collaborated to launch zkAPI, a zero-knowledge protocol for private AI payments. This system allows users to pay for AI services without linking their identity to their requests.
The protocol uses cryptographic data structures and proof systems to verify payment without revealing the user's identity or specific deposit amount.
User deposits are turned into commitments via a Merkle tree, while spending balances are kept as private notes on the device. A zero-knowledge proof is generated to prove sufficient funds for payment, done without knowing the specific deposit or user's identity.
The protocol does not hide all network activity or content submitted by users, but rather separates payment records from prompts and queries sent to service providers.