Akash Network's Strategic Shift: Evaluating Solana as a Leading Mainnet Candidate

The decentralized cloud computing platform, Akash Network (AKT), is undergoing a major transformation by planning to discontinue its proprietary Layer 1 blockchain and migrate to a new mainnet. This landmark decision has ignited interest across the blockchain industry as Akash Co-Founder and CEO, Greg Osuri, positions Solana as a "strong candidate" for this transition. The update highlights fierce competition among Layer 1 (L1) blockchains, such as Solana and Base, eager to integrate Akash’s infrastructure into their ecosystems.

Moving Beyond Cosmos SDK: The Future Awaits

On October 13, Greg Osuri shared Akash Network's strategic roadmap in response to questions regarding its potential departure from Cosmos. Though Akash currently operates as an application-specific chain (appchain) built on the Cosmos SDK framework, it runs independently of the Cosmos Hub. In an official announcement, Osuri confirmed, "We will cease operating our proprietary chain and move to another chain that can ensure Akash's security." The move represents a bold shift in Akash’s strategy, seeking stronger and more secure grounds for its long-term operational goals.

Key Criteria Guiding Akash's New Mainnet Selection

Osuri outlined four pivotal factors for determining Akash's next mainnet:

1. Robust Security – Ensuring uncompromising protection for Akash’s decentralized cloud infrastructure.
2. Community Strength – Leveraging vibrant and active blockchain communities for support and innovation.
3. Liquidity Access – Enhancing liquidity for AKT token markets to drive adoption and growth.
4. Growth Potential – Partnering with a blockchain poised for long-term scalability and ecosystem development.

Importantly, interoperability remains a core priority. Osuri emphasized that the new mainnet must support the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol, which would allow Akash to retain compatibility with existing Cosmos tools, such as the Osmosis DEX and the Keplr wallet. While the network’s migration could traverse beyond Cosmos’ ecosystem, this compatibility ensures continuity for its users and infrastructure partners.

Open RFP Process: Transparency in Decision-Making

To identify the optimal blockchain partner, Akash will initiate a transparent Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Osuri highlighted a commitment to community-driven decision-making, stating, "As with everything we do, the entire process will be open to community input." By incorporating feedback from both network participants and external blockchain foundations, Akash aims to ensure alignment between technical requirements and stakeholder expectations.

Evolution of Staking and the AKT Token Economy

The transition to a new mainnet will likely introduce major changes to Akash's staking model and tokenomics. Addressing community concerns about staking, Osuri clarified, "While it may appear staking is disappearing, it’s actually evolving into a superior model." This revamped staking system will shift beyond basic security mechanisms to offer enhanced rewards, aligning with a deflationary model for the AKT token. The reduction of the circulating token supply aligns with efforts to strengthen AKT's value proposition over the long term, creating a more resilient and investor-friendly economy.

Solana: A Top Contender for Akash’s Migration

Among the potential candidates, Solana has emerged as a leading choice for Akash’s next blockchain home. Osuri specifically praised Solana's capabilities, stating, "In the decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN) sector, Solana is the clear frontrunner and a strong candidate." Known for its high throughput, low latency, and cost efficiency, Solana offers the performance and scalability required to meet Akash’s demanding computational workloads. This acknowledgment also reinforces Solana’s expanding role as a preferred Layer 1 platform for emerging high-performance ecosystems.

A Gradual, User-Centric Migration Plan

To ensure minimal disruption, Akash has proposed a carefully managed one-year timeline for the migration process. This structured approach will give developers, token holders, and other stakeholders sufficient time to adapt to changes while maintaining operational stability. Akash’s strategic focus on user satisfaction is central to its plan, promising a seamless transition to the new environment.

Broader Industry Implications

Akash Network’s decision to pivot away from its proprietary chain and rehome within a high-performance L1 ecosystem marks a cornerstone moment for the blockchain industry. This move signals a shifting competitive landscape among Layer 1 protocols, particularly as projects like Solana and Base vie for Akash’s integration.

As a leader within the decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN) sector, Akash's ultimate choice will resonate across both Cosmos and the wider blockchain ecosystem. The migration underscores evolving trends in blockchain infrastructure, where innovation, scalability, and adaptability are paramount. Observers anticipate a mix of collaboration and competition among Layer 1 chains, as projects realign their ecosystems to capture increasingly complex use cases.

Akash's strategic pivot not only enhances its potential for growth but also invites a renewed dialogue about the future of decentralized cloud computing, interoperability, and blockchain collaboration. The final decision will likely shape the landscape of decentralized infrastructure for years to come.