Cryptocurrency mining in 2025 is undergoing a transformation driven by AI technologies and virtual nodes. Major players like Bitdeer Technologies Group are adopting hybrid models that integrate mining with AI and high-performance computing (HPC). This shift is partly in response to increased network difficulty and reduced block rewards following the 2024 Bitcoin halving, which pose challenges for smaller miners. New platforms such as PepeNode (PEPENODE) are emerging to offer virtual mining solutions for retail users. These platforms enable users to earn rewards through virtual nodes without the need for costly hardware investments. PepeNode has successfully raised over $1.8 million in pre-sales and has completed a security audit by Coinsult, highlighting its growing traction in the market.