Telefónica and Helium Network Partner to Expand Decentralized Wireless Coverage in Mexico

The Helium Network is a decentralized wireless IoT network using the LoRaWAN system, powered by computers in homes and businesses of individuals, who are paid in the cryptocurrency Helium Network Token (HNT).

Telefónica and Helium have announced a new partnership to expand the reach of the Helium Mobile Network in Mexico.

Under the agreement, consumers will be able to purchase Helium Mobile Hotspots in Movistar retail stores and online, contributing to the growth of the decentralised wireless IoT network.

The partnership aims to reduce infrastructure costs and improve coverage by utilising Helium's decentralised network, reducing the reliance on traditional cell towers.

The initial phase of the partnership will focus on expanding the network at over 300 sites across Mexico, offering wider coverage to Movistar subscribers.

Helium Mobile Hotspots, powered by computers in homes and businesses, are a part of the Helium Network, which is used by more than 300,000 daily subscribers from Helium Mobile and other major carriers.

Individuals contributing to the network are compensated with Helium Network Token (HNT) cryptocurrency.

"In 2024, Movistar and Helium carried out a pilot project with thousands of Movistar customers. The pilot aimed to extend the operator's coverage in the country in certain areas to allow the offloading of mobile data traffic on the Helium Network," said Telefónica in a statement.

"This was made possible thanks to a jointly designed architecture that allows Movistar subscribers to seamlessly connect to the Helium Network."

As part of the agreement, Movistar will also resell Helium Network coverage to other local MVNOs.

“At Telefónica Movistar México, we are focused on working under an alliances model that allows technological deployment acceleration and better quality for users, while generating efficiencies,” said Camilo Aya Caro, President & CEO of Telefónica Movistar México, in the statement.

"We're seeing what's possible and exploring how a network powered by people can bring more value to Telefónica and our subscribers across Mexico."

Consumers can contribute to building the Helium Network by setting up a Hotspot in a local business, retail shop, event venue, or other location with high foot traffic.

“Helium is on a mission to make connectivity more affordable for the masses,” said Mario Di Dio, GM of Network at Helium, in the statement.

"Collaborating with Movistar amplifies our vision of decentralized connectivity, inviting millions of their subscribers to use the Helium Network.”

Helium is also part of the portfolio of startups invested in by Wayra, Telefónica's corporate venture capital.