Andrew Yang's Noble Mobile acquired Helium Mobile, the mobile service provider built on the decentralized, crypto-powered Helium network. Deal terms were not disclosed. Helium Mobile COO Frank Mong stated the acquisition stemmed from deep alignment in values and vision between the two companies, both committed to offering affordable connectivity. The combined entity will leverage the Solana-based Helium network, composed of nearly 139,000 mobile hotspots acting as miniature cell towers, to provide low-cost service plans aimed at disrupting major mobile carriers. Nova Labs, the firm that founded the Helium network and launched Helium Mobile, will now focus on accelerating network expansion and onboarding additional carriers.
Noble Mobile Acquires Helium Mobile with Subscriber Continuity Guaranteed
Helium Mobile subscribers will maintain their phone numbers and access to the same 5G network powered by T-Mobile following the acquisition. Noble Mobile has agreed to use the Helium network as part of the deal. Mong told Decrypt that subscribers should expect a smooth transition, adding that "our subscribers deserve a home that shares our conviction that connectivity should be affordable and accessible to everyone." Helium Mobile previously offered a free mobile plan but recently discontinued it.
Helium Network Operates 139,000 Hotspots Serving Millions Daily
The Helium network consists of nearly 139,000 mobile hotspots deployed worldwide, according to data from the Helium website. The "crowd-built" cellular network has been used by providers including AT&T and Telefonica to extend or fill gaps in their coverage networks. The network serves more than 2.6 million daily users and generates more than $47,000 per day in revenue, according to Helium World's dashboard. The network operates on a Solana-based model, offering HNT tokens to hotspot operators who provide coverage used by carriers and subscribers. HNT is down nearly 7% at a recent price of $0.64, with a 30-day drop of about 28%.
Nova Labs Shifts Focus to Network Expansion After Divestiture
Nova Labs founded the Helium network and launched the Helium Mobile service. Mong stated that the network business represents the largest opportunity for the company. "We've recently onboarded major U.S. carriers to offload traffic at scale and the Helium network now serves millions of users daily," Mong said. "To capture this momentum, we needed to find Helium Mobile the right steward while our team focuses on accelerating network expansion." The acquisition does not change the Helium network's operational model or token distribution mechanism.
FAQ
What did Noble Mobile acquire from Helium Mobile?
Noble Mobile acquired Helium Mobile, the mobile service provider built on the decentralized, crypto-powered Helium network. Deal terms were not disclosed. Subscribers will keep their phone numbers and maintain access to the same T-Mobile-powered 5G network.
How large is the Helium network?
The Helium network consists of nearly 139,000 mobile hotspots deployed worldwide. The network serves more than 2.6 million daily users and generates more than $47,000 per day in revenue, according to Helium World's dashboard.
Why did Nova Labs divest Helium Mobile?
Nova Labs divested Helium Mobile to focus on accelerating network expansion. The company recently onboarded major U.S. carriers to offload traffic at scale and identified the network business as its largest opportunity.
