Metis at ETHDenver 2025: Hyperion, AI, and the Future of Layer2
ETHDenver 2025 was a pivotal event for Metis, solidifying its role at the forefront of Layer 2 innovation. From unveiling Hyperion, the first AI-native high-performance L2, to hosting insightful keynotes and workshops, Metis showcased the future of blockchain scalability and AI-powered execution.
Metis Hyperion: The AI-Optimized Layer 2 Network
One of the most significant announcements at ETHDenver was the unveiling of Hyperion, a modular Layer 2 network designed to enhance Ethereum’s scalability and computational efficiency.
Metis Hyperion (HYPE). Source: Metis.
Built with AI-native applications in mind, Hyperion integrates parallel execution to boost transaction throughput, making it ideal for high-performance DeFi and gaming. Additionally, it introduces MetisVM, a virtual machine tailored for AI-powered smart contracts and machine learning inference, as well as zkML integration, allowing private and verifiable AI computations on-chain. The introduction of Hyperion was met with enthusiasm from developers eager to explore its potential ahead of its anticipated mainnet launch in May 2025.
Elena Sinelnikova’s Vision for ReGenesis
During the opening ceremony, Metis co-founder Elena Sinelnikova introduced the Dual-Chain Mechanism, a key innovation aimed at strengthening scalability and AI execution. She emphasized the role of Hyperion as a high-performance AI-optimized Layer 2, alongside the importance of MetisVM for AI-driven smart contracts, MetisSDK for seamless AI integration into Web3 applications, and LazAI & Alith as foundational components for verifiable and ethical AI governance on-chain. Her speech reinforced Metis’ commitment to a decentralized, AI-powered future that ensures transparency and trust in blockchain-based AI systems.
Metis L2 at ETHDenver 2025 with HYPE. Source: ETHDenver
Natalia Ameline on AI and Blockchain Synergy
At the Spork Castle Stage, Metis co-founder Natalia Ameline expanded on Hyperion (HYPE) and the broader ReGenesis initiative. She explained how Hyperion is positioned to solve Ethereum’s AI scalability challenges with its advanced architecture, detailing the Dual-Chain Mechanism and its ability to balance speed, security, and decentralization. Ameline also discussed the integration of zkML and MetisVM, highlighting their role in setting new standards for AI-enabled smart contracts and decentralized intelligence.
Technical Deep Dives: AI, zkML, and Decentralization
Privacy-First AI with Alith
At BUIDL Hub, Metis DevRel Pavel Sinelnikov led an in-depth session on Alith, a privacy-centric AI framework built for Hyperion’s execution environment. The session explored how zkVM for AI inference enables secure AI computations on-chain, the role of decentralized AI governance in eliminating centralized oversight, and how optimized AI model deployment leverages MetisVM to power AI-driven automation in DeFi, risk management, and governance. Sinelnikov’s presentation illustrated how zkML-powered AI architecture can be effectively applied across various blockchain sectors, including DAOs and NFT gaming.
LazAI and the Role of zkML
At ZK Hub, LazAI CMO Daniel Kwak outlined the roadmap for LazAI and Hyperion, focusing on the critical role of zkML in secure AI execution on blockchain networks. He detailed how Hyperion’s AI inference models will enhance smart contract automation while maintaining privacy and security, as well as the broader implications of Layer 2 scalability and decentralized AI in shaping the future of Web3 applications.
Key Takeaways and What’s Next
ETHDenver 2025 served as a launchpad for Hyperion Testnet, showcasing how AI and blockchain can be seamlessly integrated to enhance scalability, decentralization, and intelligent automation. Throughout the event, Metis engaged with builders, investors, and ecosystem partners, solidifying its position as a leader in AI-powered Layer 2 solutions.
With Hyperion Mainnet set to launch in May 2025, Metis is inviting developers and partners to be part of this groundbreaking transformation. Stay connected for further updates as the project pushes the boundaries of AI and blockchain synergy.
