Microsoft and Aptos Labs unveiled their collaboration, aimed at constructing an AI-driven chatbot and delving into asset tokenization. Additionally, Aptos intends to operate validator nodes on the Azure cloud platform provided by Microsoft to bolster the dependability and safety of the Aptos blockchain.

Following Meta’s decision to halt its diem stablecoin initiative, a significant portion of the original team behind the project came together again within Aptos Labs. Their objective is to revive and bring to fruition the vision of the abandoned project.

Named the Aptos Assistant, the AI chatbot is designed to offer details about the blockchain to interested individuals, simplifying the process of introducing users to the Web3 ecosystem.

Furthermore, it aims to support developers in constructing decentralized applications and intelligent contracts. According to Rashmi Misra from Microsoft, the assistant is connected to Microsoft Azure’s OpenAI in an endeavor to democratize the use of blockchain enabling users to seamlessly onboard to Web3 and innovators to develop new exciting decentralized applications using AI. 

Mo Shaikh, the CEO of Aptos Labs, further stated:

“Artificial intelligence and blockchain technology are quickly converging for one important reason: They are both generational breakthroughs that profoundly impact the evolution of the internet and shape society.”

Through this partnership, the duo will have the chance to explore payment networks, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), and asset tokenization to fully incorporate Web3 into the ecosystem of “financial services enterprises”.

This is Microsoft’s third partnership announcement this summer, each centered around blockchain technology. Prior to this, Microsoft had established collaborations with Axelar, Ankr, and Matter Labs.

Notably, several renowned corporations, including Google Cloud, Mastercard, NBC Universal, KYD Labs, and Franklin Templeton, are prominent entities utilizing Aptos.

APT Token Soars Following The Partnership News

After the partnership announcement, Aptos’ APT token surged by over 17%, reaching a peak of $7.33 before slightly pulling back to $7.31. According to TokenUnlocks data, the scheduled unlocking of approximately $33.62 million worth of 4.5 million APT tokens is set for August 11. This scheduled release constitutes roughly 2% of the token’s circulating quantity.

According to the data aggregator dashboard, around 3.21 million tokens, valued at approximately $23.76 million, will be apportioned to the community, with the remaining portion going to Aptos Foundation.