TL;DR
- AR.IO launched its mainnet and token generation event (TGE), offering a permanent cloud storage solution based on Arweave.
- Unlike traditional services, it allows users to pay once for data storage without the need for renewals or risk of losing access to their files.
- The network introduced its ARIO token, with a total supply of one billion tokens, aimed at incentivizing development, infrastructure, and fostering strategic partnerships.
AR.IO, a new permanent cloud storage network based on Arweave, officially launched its mainnet and token generation event (TGE).
The platform aims to provide a data storage solution that does not rely on centralized entities, ensuring that information remains available indefinitely and resistant to censorship. Unlike traditional cloud storage services, AR.IO allows users to pay once for data storage, without the need for renewals or risks of losing access to their files.
AR.IO Challenges Centralized Cloud Storage
The AR.IO network, with its main app ArDrive, is designed to compete with cloud giants like Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services but with a decentralized approach. The project joins other similar Web3 initiatives, such as Impossible Cloud and Filecoin, which aim to provide more secure and durable alternatives to centralized services.
The project began taking shape in 2022 when ArDrive raised over $17 million to fund the development of the blockchain-based network. Its investors include Blockchain Capital, Forward Research (Arweave’s R&D incubator), Foresight Ventures, and Ryze Labs. With this funding, AR.IO has been able to progress in building infrastructure that ensures the permanence of stored data, without relying on centralized servers.
ARIO Token Distribution
As part of its launch, AR.IO also introduced its native token, ARIO, which has a fixed total supply of one billion tokens. These tokens will be distributed as follows: 17.08% for the core team and advisors, 20.29% to support early development and infrastructure, 17.5% allocated for early users, and 28.63% for fostering strategic partnerships and collaborations. Additionally, the ARIO token will be used to manage ArNS smart domains, which offer a permanent blockchain-native identity for apps, data, and digital ownership.
With this initiative, AR.IO seeks to simplify access to permanent data storage and make blockchain technology more accessible, providing an innovative solution to current problems with traditional cloud storage.
