AT&T Partners with Helium Network to Expand Decentralized Wi-Fi Coverage
AT&T has announced a strategic partnership with the Helium Network, enabling its subscribers to access Heliumβs decentralized, community-powered Wi-Fi at thousands of locations across the United States. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in AT&Tβs wireless convergence strategy, utilizing Heliumβs extensive network of over 62,000 βHotspotsβ to complement traditional cellular infrastructure.
Helium Network: A Cost-Efficient Connectivity Solution
The Helium Network, powered by individuals and businesses operating small cell towers, offers a unique model for expanding wireless access. Participants in this decentralized network earn cryptocurrency rewards for maintaining connectivity, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional infrastructure. AT&Tβs adoption of Heliumβs technology underscores its commitment to innovation in wireless services.
Improved Coverage and Transparency
As part of this partnership, AT&T will leverage Heliumβs real-time coverage quality metrics to enhance network transparency and optimize service delivery. This approach not only strengthens AT&Tβs service offerings but also ensures a seamless experience for subscribers in areas where conventional infrastructure faces cost or logistical challenges.
Subscribers will benefit from Passpoint Wi-Fi authentication, which allows devices to automatically connect to nearby Helium Hotspots whenever available. This hybrid connectivity solution bridges service gaps, particularly in underserved areas, while reducing operational costs for AT&T.
βWorking with AT&T is a massive step forward in our mission to bring affordable and accessible connectivity to the masses,β said Amir Haleem, Co-founder of Helium and CEO of Helium Mobile.
Heliumβs Growing Impact in the Telecommunications Industry
AT&T is not the only major carrier leveraging Heliumβs decentralized infrastructure. TelefΓ³nicaβs Movistar has also embraced Heliumβs solutions to improve service quality and reduce expenses. Heliumβs global footprint continues to expand, with notable growth in Mexico, where Movistar is helping connect over two million users to the network.
Helium recently celebrated the launch of its Zero Plan, marking the introduction of the first free mobile plan in the United States. This initiative further highlights the platformβs commitment to affordable connectivity solutions, making it an attractive partner for telecom operators.
Regulatory Milestone for Helium
Earlier this year, Helium achieved a significant regulatory victory when the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) dismissed its case against Nova Labs, the parent company behind the Helium Network. The SEC had accused Heliumβs team of selling unregistered securities, but the case was dismissed with prejudice, eliminating uncertainty over the regulatory status of certain tokens associated with the network.
As Helium continues to expand its reach and gain recognition from major carriers like AT&T, it remains a pioneering force in the decentralized connectivity space. With its innovative approach to wireless access and growing partnerships, Helium is reshaping how users and businesses connect in the digital age.