- Ethereum blockchain explorer Etherscan has unveiled an AI-powered tool that explores smart contract code
- Known as Code Reader, it employs OpenAI’s ChatGPT to query a smart contract
- Etherscan has however advised users to take the AI-generated responses with a pinch of salt
Ethereum blockchain explorer Etherscan has unveiled a tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to explore a smart contract’s code. Known as Code Reader, it employs OpenAI’s ChatGPT to query a smart contract by following directions from a user. Etherscan has however advised users to take the AI-generated responses with a pinch of salt adding that the tool is for informational purposes only.
Don’t Take AI Responses at Face Value
According to Etherscan, the tool can help users understand the inner workings of a smart contract including the number of functions and its connection to decentralized applications. Code Reader users will need an OpenAI API key “and sufficient OpenAI usage limits” as the tool runs on the Etherscan platform, unlike other plugins that are accessible only from ChatGPT’s website.
🆕 Code Reader (Beta)
Leverage the power of AI to seamlessly learn about any smart contract source code! ✨ pic.twitter.com/GTbULisudk
— Etherscan (@etherscan) June 19, 2023
The tool also allows users to edit a smart contract’s source code directly on the tool’s user interface before engaging ChatGPT’s capabilities. Although the tool comes with a load of features, Etherscan is a little late to the party since other blockchains such as Solana and Alchemy have already launched similar products.
Etherscan’s caution against taking the tool’s outcome at face value aligns with complaints that AI models such as ChatGPT sometimes generate false information during a query.
Explore the magic here:https://t.co/uhyk5ojk1X
Disclaimers 📝
– OpenAI API Key with sufficient usage limits is required
– We don’t store your API Keys
– Answers are AI-generated, not by Etherscan
– Don’t assume answers are correct!
– Currently supports only one-off prompts pic.twitter.com/c9Bfz7oQSC— Etherscan (@etherscan) June 19, 2023
Meta and Binance Already Using AI
Earlier this month, OpenAI disclosed that it’s working to improve ChatGPT’s responses. Etherscan’s entry into the AI world comes when other notable companies like Meta have revealed investments in the field.
In the NFT world, AI has been gaining momentum with the likes of Binance using the technology to mint 10,000 collectibles in 2.5 hours. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has also praised AI saying it’s more revolutionary than web3.
With Etherscan launching an AI-powered smart contract explorer, it’s to be seen whether this will help capture contract vulnerabilities before exploits happen.
