WHAT IS INTENT-CENTRIC DESIGN?

In the blockchain and crypto world, an "intent" is a user’s stated goal or objective within the ecosystem, focusing on the desired outcome rather than the specific steps to achieve it. Traditionally, transactions in blockchain involve detailed instructions on how to execute actions, like specifying which platforms to use and at what rates. In contrast, an intent simply states what the user wants, leaving the "how" to be handled by a solver—whether that's a person, AI, or another protocol.

For instance, while a traditional transaction might instruct, "do A, then B, and pay C to get X," an intent would simply say, "I want X and will pay up to C for it." The solver then handles the necessary steps to fulfill the intent, optimizing for the best possible outcome. Why are Intent-centric services gaining popularity?

The growing complexity of the blockchain landscape—with its multitude of cryptocurrencies, layers, and interoperability solutions—makes it difficult for users to choose the best options. Intent services simplify this by automating the decision-making process, potentially saving users time and money by finding the most efficient routes for transactions, such as reducing gas fees or securing the best exchange rates. Intent-centric platforms usually start with an "intent-discovery" phase, where users publicly express their goals. This could involve tasks as simple as converting one cryptocurrency to another or more complex operations involving multiple blockchains. These intents are then sent to a marketplace where solvers, if they find the fee acceptable, pick them up and execute the necessary steps to achieve the user’s goal.

Pros and Cons

Benefits:

1. Enhanced User Experience: Users can achieve their goals without needing to manually navigate various platforms, simplifying their interaction with blockchain.

2. Reduced Transaction Fees: By consolidating multiple transactions into a single optimized one, fees can be lowered.

3. Increased Privacy and Security: Users only need to disclose their desired outcome, not the detailed steps, which can enhance privacy and security.

Challenges:

1. Balancing Efficiency and Privacy: Solvers may require more information to fulfill an intent effectively, potentially compromising user privacy.

2. Technical Complexity: Implementing intent-centric models in the rapidly evolving blockchain space is challenging and requires deep expertise.

3. Centralization Risks: If a few large players dominate the solver market, it could lead to centralization, which contradicts the decentralized nature of blockchain.

The rise of intent-centric design marks a significant shift in blockchain, introducing a novel approach to how users interact with the crypto landscape. The concept of expressing intent and leaving the execution details to solvers offers efficiency and convenience to users navigating the increasingly complex world of cryptocurrencies.

Intent infrastructures, exemplified by protocols like Anoma, offer a promising array of benefits, including enhanced user experiences and reduced transaction fees amongst the notable advantages. Users can articulate their goals without delving into the intricate steps, streamlining processes and potentially saving time and effort.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges and potential drawbacks of intent-centric models. Striking the right balance between solver efficiency and user privacy remains a nuanced task. Further, technical complexities in implementation and concerns about centralisation pose hurdles that need careful consideration before jumping into intent-centric services.