IBM (NYSE:IBM) has introduced a new blockchain system that provides a more affordable alternative for startups and developers than its current product. The new release focuses on companies looking to create blockchain projects and related applications. Other news from the Big Blue camp revolved around the Think 2018 conference in Las Vegas, where the US tech giant presented the world’s smallest computer.
The new blockchain system is still in beta mode, and startups can use it for free until the full launch. The company has not revealed what it will charge for this blockchain plan.
IBM operates with permissioned blockchain systems, which differ from the public ones in that they allow only a limited number of trusted users to access it. This type of distributed ledger technology (DLT) is preferred by corporations and organizations for internal use.
Marie Wieck, head of IBM Blockchain, told CNBC:
“The new plan is perfect for pilot projects and early stage development work for those who want to build solutions on the IBM blockchain platform which currently has over 250 active blockchain networks.”
“Our expertise in building and scaling networks is invaluable and will be shared across a wide ecosystem,” she added.
IBM’s new solutions will also help companies commercialize their own DLT apps.
Wieck told CNBC the company was focused on blockchain rather than cryptocurrencies.
“IBM's bet is on the blockchain technology underneath cryptocurrencies since it powers new multi-party transactions and business models,” she said.
Last week, we reported that IBM had over 400 enterprise clients using its blockchain technology, among them Walmart (NYSE:WMT), Nestlé, VISA, and HSBC.
Last year, IBM and Stellar partnered to create a blockchain-based cross-border payment system for the South Pacific region. The system uses Stellar’s token called Lumens.
On Monday, IBM presented at Think 2018 the world’s tiniest computer, which is expected to be compatible with blockchain. The device measures 1 millimeter by 1 millimeter and has more or less the same computing power as a machine from the 1990s.
“The world’s smallest computer is an IBM-designed edge device architecture and computing platform that is smaller than a grain of salt will cost less than ten cents to manufacture, and can monitor, analyze, communicate, and even act on data,” IBM said.
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