Intergalactic Labs (the first contributor to the Nodle Network) is Launching the Open Node Project. The Open Node Project (ON) is an open source initiative aimed at creating decentralized infrastructure (DePIN) for self-sovereign computing, payments, messaging and AI. The goal is to inspire and allow anyone to easily deploy enterprise grade decentralized infrastructure at home.
By leveraging open-source software and accessible consumer hardware, the project enables individuals to build and operate enterprise-grade internet infrastructure using smartphones, low-cost computers and 3D-printed components. The first phase of Open Node is fully open source, low cost 10 inch server rack design created to run smartphone compute clusters.
The Open Node Project is launching with its first partner, Acurast, who is enabling large language models (LLMs) to run across a cluster of smartphones and is opening this up to developers.
You can see the Open Node Library here: https://github.com/NodleCode/OpenNode
Acurast is a truly decentralized, scalable, and secure compute network powered by smartphones, driving a mobile-powered disruption for decentralized, confidential, and accessible compute. Acurast redefines decentralized compute from the ground up—starting with smartphones, which are the most battle-tested devices worldwide, trusted by billions. With built-in trusted execution environments (TEEs) and top-tier hardware security (HSMs), they surpass traditional servers in security.
Acurast is leveraging the ON architecture to make it easy for anyone to build their own AI cluster using nothing more than old smartphones and a 3D printer. Anyone can easily repurpose old smartphones to become Acurast Nodes, and now their own AI cluster.
To deploy an Acurast smartphone cluster, start by gathering smartphone devices with ARM processors and TEE, along with power, a USB hub, and a network connection. Install the Acurast app from GitHub, enable USB debugging, and register each device.
Ensure all devices are connected to the same network, deploy AI models like DeepSeek AI, and monitor performance through the Acurast Dashboard. Expand as needed.
Here is a Video of the DeepSeek AI model being deployed across an Acurast smartphone Cluster:
Open Source & Consumer Hardware
The Open Node Project provides the tools and blueprints to construct decentralized infrastructure, empowering users to run blockchain nodes, communications networks and AI clusters with widely available hardware.
The initiative is centered on:
Hardware Accessibility: Utilizing affordable consumer devices such as smartphones and compact computers to create scalable, distributed networks.
3D Printing: Enabling the fabrication of essential hardware components using open-source designs and low cost materials.
Decentralization: Allowing individuals to take control of their digital sovereignty without reliance on centralized intermediaries.
The project is launched by Intergalactic Labs, which has a strong legacy in decentralized infrastructure, with its team members pioneering projects like Open Garden (2011), FireChat (2014), and the Nodle Network (2017).
Open Node is launching as a Github Repo for building your own 10 inch Rack based Smartphone Cluster.
Promoting Digital Sovereignty & Decentralization
The Open Node Project is built to protect freedom of speech and democratize access to enterprise grade DePIN. As the internet increasingly consolidates under centralized authorities, this initiative restores control to individuals by allowing them to deploy and manage critical components of the web.
Key Innovations at Launch:
ON-1 Server Rack: A modular, 3U x 10in, 3D-printable server rack designed for easy deployment of infrastructure.
Acurast AI Cluster: A smartphone-based decentralized compute platform leveraging ARM-based security modules and AI acceleration.
By fostering an ecosystem where individuals can independently host and maintain digital infrastructure, the Open Node Project is creating the building blocks for a more open, resilient and censorship-resistant internet.
Open Node’s collaboration with Acurast is only the beginning.