The crypto world is buzzing again with the revival of ICO-like launchpads, reminiscent of the 2017 boom but with a modern twist. In a recent thread on X, investor and researcher @Defi0xJeff highlighted this trend, pointing out a slew of new platforms popping up across the ecosystem. From Echo and Legion to those backed by big names like Kraken and Coinbase, it seems like everyone's jumping on the launchpad bandwagon.

But what's really catching eyes are the next-generation launchpads that go beyond simple token sales. These aren't just about raising funds; they're creating new asset classes tied to cutting-edge tech. Take OpenServ, for instance. This platform lets builders create "agentic businesses"—think autonomous AI systems that handle tasks like workflows or operations using swarms of AI agents. The cool part? You can tokenize these setups, turning them into investable assets that run on OpenServ's infrastructure. It's like giving AI a crypto makeover, where tokens represent ownership in these smart, self-operating apps.

Then there's Flock, which is launching FOMO—a model tailored for specific domains that ties revenue from API usage directly back to token holders or stakers. Domain-specific models are AI trained on niche data, say for healthcare or finance, making them super efficient for targeted use cases. By tokenizing them on Flock's stack, creators can monetize from day one, with real utility baked in. No more waiting for hype; these tokens could generate revenue right out of the gate.

Jeff also notes that fair-launch launchpads—where tokens are distributed without pre-sales or VCs getting first dibs—might not return soon. Instead, the focus is shifting to these utility-driven models. What's exciting is how these launchpads aren't standalone features but extensions of usable infrastructure. For example, revenue from tokens could subsidize costs like hosting or compute, making the whole system more sustainable.

In the meme token space, this could mean big things. Memes thrive on community and quick launches, but adding AI elements like agentic tools could evolve them into something more functional. Imagine a meme token that powers a swarm of AI agents for viral marketing or community management—blending fun with real value.

Of course, success boils down to demand. If the underlying product or model doesn't attract users, no amount of tokenization will save it. As Jeff puts it, it's going to be fascinating to watch how these play out. For blockchain practitioners, keeping an eye on platforms like OpenServ and Flock could uncover the next wave of opportunities in AI-crypto fusion.

This trend signals a maturing market, where launchpads are tools for innovation rather than just fundraising gimmicks. If you're building or investing in memes or DeFi, these developments might just redefine how you approach token launches. Stay tuned as the space evolves— the ICO meta is back, but smarter than ever.