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 Helium’s decentralized, community-powered Wi-Fi at thousands of locations across the United States. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in AT&T’s wireless convergence strategy, utilizing Helium’s extensive network of over 62,000 β€œHotspots” 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&T’s adoption of Helium’s technology underscores its commitment to innovation in wireless services.

Improved Coverage and Transparency

As part of this partnership, AT&T will leverage Helium’s real-time coverage quality metrics to enhance network transparency and optimize service delivery. This approach not only strengthens AT&T’s 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.

β€œWorking with AT&T is a massive step forward in our mission to bring affordable and accessible connectivity to the masses,” said Amir Haleem, Co-founder of Helium and CEO of Helium Mobile.

Helium’s Growing Impact in the Telecommunications Industry

AT&T is not the only major carrier leveraging Helium’s decentralized infrastructure. TelefΓ³nica’s Movistar has also embraced Helium’s solutions to improve service quality and reduce expenses. Helium’s 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 platform’s 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 Helium’s 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.