Inside Helium’s Vision for Decentralized Physical Infrastructure: An Interview with CEO Abhay Kumar

Expansion Beyond Wireless

On July 22, 2024, Helium Foundation CEO Abhay Kumar shared insights into the network’s future direction during an interview with Blockworks. Helium is set to expand its scope beyond wireless to include decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN). This move aims to leverage open-source code for broader applications and collaborate with new teams to build within the Helium ecosystem.

Onboarding Srcful and Other DePINs

A recent Helium Improvement Proposal (HIP) suggested incorporating the energy-focused startup Srcful into the Helium network. Kumar explained that this is part of a broader vision where multiple networks coexist and collaborate, using common technical, social, and economic coordination layers. This integration aims to create a more robust and interconnected ecosystem.

Building Subnetworks

When asked about the benefits of building subnetworks, Kumar emphasized that it’s not a distraction from the current IoT focus. Instead, it complements the existing infrastructure by facilitating easier onboarding of sensors and maintaining coverage. The Helium Foundation plans to staff up and find technological efficiencies to support these dual objectives.

Criteria for New Network Projects

Kumar outlined the criteria for considering new network projects within Helium. He highlighted the importance of overlap in three areas: technical, economic, and social. Successful proposals should offer clear advantages in at least two of these areas. The recent proposal from Srcful meets all three criteria, making it an ideal candidate for integration.

Future of Helium Networks

Discussing the long-term vision, Kumar acknowledged that predicting the next ten years in the crypto space is challenging. However, he envisions a future where Helium supports a variety of networks, each contributing to a unified ecosystem. This diversified approach aims to enhance the overall resilience and utility of the Helium network.

Final Thoughts

The Helium Foundation’s strategic shift towards integrating DePIN projects marks a significant evolution in its mission. By fostering collaboration and leveraging open-source technologies, Helium aims to build a more inclusive and efficient infrastructure. This visionary approach promises to drive innovation and expand the network’s impact globally.