Proof of Inference

Definition ∞ Proof of Inference is a cryptographic method that allows a party to demonstrate, with mathematical certainty, that a specific output was correctly generated by a given machine learning model from a particular input, without revealing the model or the input itself. This technique leverages zero-knowledge proofs to verify the integrity of an AI model’s computation. It provides verifiable assurance that an inference was performed honestly and accurately, which is critical for trust and transparency in AI applications, especially in decentralized environments. It bridges AI and blockchain.
Context ∞ Proof of Inference is a rapidly evolving area at the intersection of AI and blockchain, frequently featured in news regarding decentralized AI and verifiable computation. Its development is essential for building trust in AI systems that operate within Web3, allowing users to verify the outputs of AI models used in smart contracts or decentralized applications. A critical future development involves optimizing the efficiency and scalability of these proofs, making them practical for complex, real-world machine learning models and fostering broader adoption of verifiable AI.