Movistar, Telefónica’s mobile carrier in Mexico and decentralised wireless communications provider Helium have begun to roll out the Helium Network, activating the service for 2.3 million Movistar subscribers across Mexico.
The Helium Network is a decentralised 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).
The Helium Network has nearly 59,000 Hotspots deployed across Mexico and the US and more than 300,000 daily subscribers from Helium Mobile and other major carriers already using the Network.
The partnership aims reduce infrastructure costs while improving coverage by relying on Helium’s decentralised network instead of traditional cell towers when possible.
Under the agreement with Telefónica, Helium Mobile Hotspots will be available for purchase both in Movistar retail stores and online to consumers.
The initial phase of the partnership will include network expansion in over 300 sites across Mexico.
"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," says Telefónica.
"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.
"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.
“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.