- Telecommunications heavyweight Telefónica has launched Solana-based mobile hotspots in partnership with Nova Labs
- The Helium Mobile hotspots will be accessible in Mexico City and Oaxaca
- The initiative is part of the telecom’s efforts to improve its reach in Mexico
Telecom giant Telefónica has tapped blockchain technology to boost its reach in Mexico with the launch of Solana-based Helium Mobile hotspots in Mexico City and Oaxaca. Done in partnership with Helium network developer Nova Labs, the hotspots will make use of both Telefónica and Helium networks with Telefónica deciding which of its customers will connect to the Helium network. The telecom heavyweight disclosed that the move is part of its mission to expand its coverage through partnerships and innovation, giving blockchain a new lifeline.
Telefónica Validates Helium
According to a Telefónica executive, the Mexico launch is a test of how a blockchain-linked solution to expanding its coverage works and whether it’s a good fit for the company. The telecom giant hopes to launch the program in other countries in Latin America if the trial run is successful.
New partnership alert🚨@NovaLabs_ is working with @Telefonica to launch Helium Mobile Hotspots in Mexico! 🙌
This will allow @Telefonica customers to connect to the @Helium Mobile Network seamlessly using their Movistar SIM cards, reducing infrastructure costs while expanding… pic.twitter.com/3u3CgcEdXO
— Helium Mobile (@helium_mobile) January 24, 2024
Nova Labs noted that Helium’s approach helps companies minimize infrastructure costs while also increasing participation from its community. Nova Labs added that the partnership with Telefónica validates the Helium project.
Nova Labs CEO Amir Haleem observed that Helium Mobile hotspots solve “one of the main challenges for telecommunications and pioneer a solution that supports secure data offload that can be implemented globally.”
Deloitte Taps Kilt Blockchain
Telefónica’s move adds to initiatives by conventional firms turning to blockchain for solutions. Professional services firm Deloitte, for example, recently tapped Kilt blockchain to offer logistics services.
The move also comes two months after a United States committee passed a bill to push for the adoption of blockchain technology in the country.
Since Telefónica is testing the waters, it’s to be seen whether its customers will embrace the initiative.
