Helium, a decentralized wireless network built on Solana, is entering the Brazilian market through a joint venture with local WiFi provider Mambo WiFi, the companies said Wednesday.
The partnership represents one of Helium’s most significant international expansions to date and could set the stage for carrier integrations in a country where reliable internet access remains patchy.
As a Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN), Helium’s model relies on individuals and businesses installing hotspots that act as small cell sites. These operators earn crypto rewards tied to network usage. Supporters say the approach allows wireless coverage to scale faster and cheaper than traditional telecommunications systems.
Mambo’s network of around 40,000 WiFi hotspots, already used by major Brazilian telecom providers, will serve as the initial base for Helium’s rollout. The companies say this infrastructure can be used by airlines to offload mobile data traffic to Helium-connected hotspots, a strategy that could reduce congestion and lower operating costs.
“Together, we are tackling the telecommunications market in Brazil and pioneering a new model where human-powered networks deliver affordable, reliable coverage at scale,” Mario Di Dio, Helium’s GM for Network, said in the announcement.
Brazil is a significant target for the rollout: more than 100 million people rely primarily on shared or public WiFi to get online, according to the press release. Helium currently has more than 120,000 hotspots in the US and Mexico. Brazil is poised to become the network’s next big market as it continues its push beyond North America.
Read more: Helium Plus lets companies join the Wi-Fi-only Solana DePIN project
