AT&T has paired with Helium to expand the number of WiFi hotspots available to its mobile customers.
As part of the partnership, AT&T subscribers will be able to connect to Helium's WiFi network.
Helium Network operates as a decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN) company that lets individuals and organizations deploy WiFi hotspots in return for cryptocurrency tokens or other rewards.
Helium calls the hotspots "mini cell towers" and notes that the model it operates is a "robust, cost-efficient alternative to traditional wireless infrastructure."
So far, the company has deployed more than 62,000 hotspots across the US and Mexico. AT&T has around 20,000 WiFi spots across the US.
“Working 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.
“Teaming up with such a global leader in the industry allows us to rapidly accelerate the adoption of Helium and provide real-world value to both AT&T and their subscribers. This is only the beginning of our journey that will transform the future of connectivity.”
Helium claims that it has more than 800,000 users on its network.
Other carriers that work with the company include Telefónica’s Movistar and Dish Network.
In February, Helium activated its service to more than 2.3 million Movistar subscribers across Mexico.
Carriers pair with companies such as Helium to offload traffic in favor of WiFi to ease the pressure on their mobile network.