Helium, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), has launched a 'Zero Plan' offering free 5G service with data, texts, and minutes. While this proposition is tempting, Helium faces significant hurdles in sustaining this model and scaling its decentralized wireless network (DePIN). Helium's reliance on user-generated location data, its freemium model, and its cryptocurrency-based incentive system all present unique challenges.
Helium, a mobile virtual network operator ( MVNO ), has launched a new plan called Zero Plan , offering users 3GB of data, 300 texts, and 100 minutes of calls for free. Helium aims to reward users through its Cloud Points program, which incentivizes activities like referrals and location sharing. These points can be redeemed for various rewards. While the allure of free 5G service is enticing, Helium's Zero Plan faces numerous challenges in terms of sustainability and technical execution.
The company's reliance on its Cloud Points program, which rewards users for sharing anonymized location data, echoes previous industry attempts to incentivize user engagement, many of which have faltered in the US market. Helium's long-term goal is to establish a decentralized wireless network (DePIN) by encouraging users to install Wi-Fi hotspots in areas with high demand. Despite Helium's progress in establishing around 26,000 Wi-Fi sites, the scalability of this approach remains a question mark.Helium's freemium model has been tested by other carriers with mixed results. While some companies, like FreedomPop, found initial success with free-tier services, they often struggled to convert free users into paying customers at a sustainable rate. Even Sprint's attempt to offer a free year of service in 2017 ultimately failed to retain users. Helium's ambition is further complicated by its reliance on cryptocurrency, which has experienced significant volatility. The company's initial foray into a decentralized Internet of Things (IoT) network using blockchain incentives failed to gain traction. Helium's transition to focusing on Wi-Fi instead of its ambitious plans to utilize the CBRS spectrum for cellular services through community-built 4G infrastructure highlights the complexities of its endeavor. While Helium's cryptocurrency system incentivizes hotspot setup, the token's value has plummeted since its peak in 2021-2022.Despite these challenges, some investors remain optimistic about Helium's potential to disrupt traditional MVNOs. However, with a subscriber valuation estimated at around $10,000 (significantly higher than industry giants), it remains to be seen whether Helium can achieve sustainable growth and overcome its numerous hurdles
HELIUM MOBILE VIRTUAL NETWORK OPERATOR MVNO FREE 5G ZERO PLAN CLOUD POINTS DECENTRALIZED WIRELESS NETWORK DEPIN FREEMIUM MODEL CRYPTOCURRENCY
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