Nova Labs’ Helium Mobile service has launched a nationwide plan in the U.S. with unlimited data, text, and talk that costs $20 a month.
In a blog post published Tuesday, Helium Mobile announced the launch of its unlimited mobile plan, which the company claims will be the “nation’s largest 5G network.”
“At Helium Mobile, we believe that cell phones are an essential service and unlimited data, text and calls are table stakes,” said Amir Haleem, CEO of Nova Labs, parent company of Helium Mobile. “We are tired of carriers that hide high subscription rates, roaming and additional data fees behind free phone upgrades that lock you into years of expensive plans. Americans deserve better.”
Nova Labs has been working towards the launch of its nationwide phone plan since September 2022 when it entered into a partnership with T-Mobile.
Helium Mobile’s service will integrate the peer-to-peer Helium Network, an internet-of-things initiative on the Solana blockchain, and a comprehensive 5G network spanning the nation. This unveiling comes on the heels of a limited trial conducted in Miami earlier this year.
The Helium Network is structured for individuals to operate hotspot nodes from their residences or businesses, receiving rewards in the form of Solana-based tokens.
Nova Labs currently provides a hybrid cell service, allowing users to connect through its decentralized network. In instances where Helium hotspots cannot offer coverage, T-Mobile will take over to ensure continuous service.
“With Helium Mobile Hotspots, subscribers can own and set up ‘mini cell towers,’” the company said in its blog post. “Dead zones can become a thing of the past when anyone can become a builder and set up a hotspot to expand the network for themselves and the community.”
Helium Mobile, which calls itself “the world’s first cryptocarrier,” will offer an outdoor Helium mobile hotspot for $499 and an indoor one for $249.
According to the Helium Hotspots Map, the network currently boasts 3,831 operational mobile hotspots, in addition to 357,087 active hotspots dedicated to internet-of-things devices.
The price of Helium’s HNT token, employed to reward operators using the network, experienced a modest increase on Tuesday following the company’s announcement. Its current value stands at $4.25, according to CoinMarketCap.
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