Helium: Decentralizing Connectivity with Solana
The rise of Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) marks a transformative shift in the web3 space, demonstrating how blockchain technology can impact real-world systems. By leveraging token-based incentives, DePIN networks empower individuals worldwide to collaboratively build and maintain vital infrastructure—ranging from telecommunications to computer rendering and even electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. At the forefront of this revolution is Helium, a project that’s reimagining connectivity through its community-powered wireless network.
Helium is building the world’s fastest-growing decentralized wireless network, offering users affordable 5G mobile connectivity. For just $20 a month, Helium Mobile delivers unlimited 5G service—but the real innovation lies in the network’s design. “Helium is a network that aligns the incentives between people that want to connect and people that are able to provide connectivity,” explains Abhay Kumar, CEO of the Helium Foundation.
A Blockchain-Powered Mobile Network
What sets Helium apart from traditional mobile service providers is its decentralized architecture. “Helium is actually one of the easiest blockchain use cases to explain because there’s real physical hardware on the ground,” says Noah Prince, Head of Protocol Engineering at the Helium Foundation.
Helium operates two networks:
- A 5G network, allowing anyone to set up a cell tower-like hotspot to provide service.
- An IoT network, which connects low-power devices like smart sensors.
People can install Helium hotspots in their homes or businesses, transforming themselves into micro cell towers. In return for providing connectivity, hotspot operators are rewarded in Helium’s native token. This decentralized approach not only makes network expansion faster but also reduces the cost of mobile plans for consumers.
“With Helium, it’s a community leveraging what they already have—locations and hardware,” says Scott Sigel, COO of the Helium Foundation. “The idea of running something on a community-built network eliminates many traditional expenses. You’re not dealing with one centralized company handling real estate, staffing, or maintenance. That’s why we can offer $20 cell phone plans—and costs will keep dropping over time.”
Why Helium Runs on Solana
To match Helium’s rapid network growth, the underlying blockchain needs to scale just as efficiently. In April 2023, Helium migrated to the Solana blockchain, a move that unlocked significant opportunities for the project. Since the migration:
- Helium launched its $20 unlimited 5G plan across the US.
- Coverage expanded into Mexico through a partnership with telecom giant TelefĂłnica.
- Google began bundling its Pixel 8 smartphones with Helium services, including hotspots.
This aggressive growth highlights the synergy between Helium’s infrastructure and Solana’s blockchain. Scott Sigel explains: “We’re coordinating massive-scale operations in the physical world. Token incentives make that possible, but to process this level of activity, traditional payment systems just can’t keep up. Blockchain is the only viable solution—and at our scale and speed, Solana is the natural choice.”
The Advantages of Solana
Helium’s success is tightly intertwined with the unique advantages of the Solana network. Unlike other blockchains, Solana provides unmatched scalability, speed, and cost-efficiency, all of which are essential for Helium’s decentralized model.
“Solana offers the perfect blend of performance and user experience,” Sigel says. “For the average user, it needs to be intuitive, fast, and simple—and Solana delivers on all fronts. It’s the only blockchain that can power the kind of interfaces we need to scale Helium while still maintaining a great user experience.”
Prince echoes this sentiment: “Building the world’s largest wireless network is challenging enough. The last thing we need is a blockchain that adds friction to the process—and Solana doesn’t. As the Helium Network scales, we need the blockchain to scale alongside it. Solana is the only real option for that.”
Powering the Future with Decentralized Networks
The Helium project stands as a prime example of how decentralized infrastructure is reshaping industries traditionally dominated by centralized corporations. By empowering individuals to operate hotspots and provide connectivity, Helium is not just creating a more affordable network—it’s fostering a global community where consumers and providers share in the network’s success.
Through its partnership with Solana, Helium has demonstrated the power of blockchain technology to enable large-scale, decentralized infrastructure projects. As it continues to expand, Helium is setting the stage for a future where connectivity is accessible, affordable, and powered by communities.
“Helium is only possible on Solana,” Prince concludes. “Its scalability, speed, and cost-efficiency are unmatched—just like the network we’re building together.”