Introducing HIP 130: Accelerating Coverage with Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots

Recently, Helium Improvement Proposal 130 (“HIP 130”) went live for voting, introducing the concept of Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots to accelerate coverage for the Helium Network. 

By allowing the deployment of these Hotspots that focus solely on data transfer—without the need for Proof-of-Coverage—HIP 130 simplifies the deployment process, lowers barriers to entry, and speeds up the expansion of Network coverage.

If passed, HIP 130 has the potential to make the Helium Network even more attractive to carriers. More carriers on the Network mean more data traffic and more opportunities for builders and Hotspot owners to increase their reward-earning potential.

HIP: https://github.com/helium/HIP/blob/main/0130-data-only-mobile-hotspots.md

Vote: https://heliumvote.com/mobile/proposals/7w8ZfXuSPPGJmC8goGBjFxpeGb2juSC2JaxfG9JobyxH 

What’s HIP 130 about?

HIP 130 proposes the introduction of Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots to rapidly scale Helium Network coverage by leveraging pre-existing Wi-Fi installations. 

Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots would transfer mobile data for the Helium Network and earn data transfer rewards, but would not participate in Proof-of-Coverage (PoC) activities or rewards.

What is a Data-Only MOBILE Hotspot?

A Data-Only MOBILE Hotspot is a Wi-Fi access point (typically enterprise grade) that can transfer data on the Helium Network through Passpoint, a technology that allows seamless and secure connections for mobile devices.

Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots would:

• Be equipped with custom configurations to add them to the Helium Network and ensure they efficiently manage data transfer
• Earn rewards solely for transferring paid data, meaning they do not participate in Proof-of-Coverage (PoC) activities and do not earn PoC rewards 
• Not require Foundation-certification, making them easier and faster to deploy

How do Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots benefit the Helium Network?

The benefit to Helium Network:

• Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots can significantly accelerate the expansion of coverage at lower data costs making it more attractive to carriers and their subscribers.
• As coverage grows, the Helium Network can attract more carriers, which in turn increases both data traffic and reward potential.
• More reward potential provides greater incentive for more builders to participate in building the network further expanding coverage.

What’s the incentive for existing community Builders?

Builders gain greater flexibility in deploying coverage with Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots. They have the option to deploy Helium Mobile Hotspots (HMH) where there’s an opportunity, or, if selling additional hardware is challenging, they can partner with site IT teams to convert pre-existing Wi-Fi sites into Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots. 

This approach allows Builders to leverage similar incentives, such as reward sharing, that are used to acquire sites, making it easier to expand the network and earn rewards without needing to push for new hardware installations.

What is Passpoint?

Passpoint is a Wi-Fi standard that allows mobile devices to automatically connect to compatible Wi-Fi networks without the need for manual intervention. 

It provides a seamless and secure connection experience for users, enabling them to roam among different Wi-Fi networks. More info here: https://www.wi-fi.org/discover-wi-fi/passpoint

What type of manufacturers support Passpoint-compatible Wi-Fi access points?

Manufacturers that support Passpoint-compatible Wi-Fi access points include brands like Cisco Meraki, Aruba Networks, Ruckus Wireless, and Ubiquiti. These manufacturers provide enterprise-grade access points that by default support the Passpoint standard.

Who pays for the data?

Data costs are paid for by the carriers who transfer data over the Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots.

Does data show up as DC burned?

Yes, data transmitted through Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots will be recorded as Data Credits (DCs) burned. This reflects the amount of data transferred on the network and is a key metric for tracking usage.

Will Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots be shown on the Coverage Planner?

Yes, Data-Only MOBILE Hotspots are expected to be included in the Helium Mobile Coverage Planner tool. This will allow users to identify their locations and make informed decisions about deployments.