Major U.S. Carriers Leverage Helium’s Decentralized Infrastructure

A new partnership has opened the door to moving physical network infrastructure to a more decentralized model.

Large mobile network operators have traditionally dominated the telecommunications industry, controlling the infrastructure and reaping the majority of the profits. However, a shift towards decentralization is gaining momentum, thanks to new technologies like the Helium decentralized infrastructure protocol powered by the Solana network.

Recently, Helium initiated a collaboration with two major U.S. carriers to test the offloading of their mobile traffic onto the Helium Network. If fully implemented, this move will shift network infrastructure towards a more decentralized model.

Major U.S. Carriers Leverage Helium’s Decentralized Infrastructure

A new partnership has opened the door to moving physical network infrastructure to a more decentralized model. On Friday, August 9, Helium publicly disclosed that it had initiated beta testing with two major, though unnamed, U.S. carriers. The tests showed positive results and are a major step in Helium’s mission to decentralize network infrastructure.

The first of these tests began on June 18, 2024, with Carrier 1. According to Helium, Carrier 1 has since connected 185,378 subscribers to the Helium Network, utilizing a network of 23 mobile hotspots. Over the course of the beta period, these subscribers have collectively transferred 2,675 GB of data. This data transfer covers various types of mobile activity, including messaging, streaming, and other internet usage.

One week later, on June 25, 2024, Carrier 2 joined the beta program. Helium reported that Carrier 2 has connected 122,482 subscribers to its decentralized network, with a total data transfer of 1,686 GB. Unlike Carrier 1, Carrier 2 has access to a larger infrastructure, supported by 63 hotspots, enabling the offloading of a greater volume of data.

How Helium Network Helps Carriers

Helium’s decentralized network allows mobile carriers to offload data traffic onto a distributed array of hotspots. This approach reduces dependence on traditional cell towers and centralized network management. This way, Helium offers lower operational costs, expanded coverage, particularly in underserved areas, and increased network resilience.

The move marks a step away from Helium’s initial focus on the Internet of Things (IoT) network. Powered by thousands of individual hotspots, the network gained traction due to its promises of passive income. These have been followed by disappointment, as most users failed to achieve a return on investment.

Still, after Helium migrated to Solana, the company broadened its focus to networking in general. The Solana migration enabled Helium to process more complex operations and accommodate a larger number of users. This performance is crucial in applications such as supporting major carrier networks.

On the Flipside

Why This Matters

Helium’s collaboration with two major U.S. carriers is critical in transitioning the telecommunications infrastructure to a more decentralized model. It also shows the Helium protocol’s and Solana’s capabilities, which powers it.

Read more about Helium leveraging Solana’s infrastructure: Helium Completes Solana Migration: A New Era for Decentralized Networks?

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