Helium, one of the most well-known DePIN projects on Solana, is launching a new service called Helium Plus, aimed at transforming how businesses contribute to the Helium Network.
Helium Plus will enable public Wi-Fi providers and businesses to join the network using existing Wi-Fi routers, with no additional hardware required. This will open the door for users and businesses to earn the network’s native token, HNT, by supporting wireless connectivity while tapping into a community-driven mobile infrastructure.
Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) are blockchain-powered systems that incentivize individuals and organizations to deploy and maintain real-world infrastructure, like wireless networks, by rewarding them with crypto tokens. These networks shift infrastructure ownership and operation from centralized entities to a distributed, community-driven model.
Helium specifically focuses on decentralized wireless connectivity, allowing users to provide network coverage through individually deployed “Hotspots.” Participants then earn HNT tokens by supporting mobile data transfer and expanding network availability.
Before Thursday’s announcement, participating in the Helium ecosystem typically meant deploying physical Hotspots devices that required upfront investment and technical configuration. With Helium Plus, users can use existing Wi-Fi routers, effectively turning any location with Wi-Fi into a Helium access point, making the cost burden easier for users who want to run the network.
“Helium Plus represents a major leap forward in how businesses can contribute to the Helium Network,” said Mario Di Dio, Network General Manager at Helium, in a press release shared with CoinDesk. “It offers instant, low-cost wireless integration, reducing infrastructure costs while creating new revenue streams and improving connectivity. The simplicity of our process is key to unlocking the full potential of this expansion.”