From Mobile Networks to Edge Computing

• DePIN projects on Polygon use blockchain to revolutionize internet infrastructure, from connected cars to GPS accuracy.

• XNET, a blockchain-powered mobile network, aims to bridge the digital divide with a revenue-sharing model.

According to a tweet by Polygon, Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) driven by blockchain incentives are set to completely transform how we access and use the underlying hardware and software of the internet. DePIN and projects ranging from global positioning and mobile networks to connected cars are ushering democratized access and opportunities for providers and customers.

Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (AKA DePIN) are rewiring the web’s hardware and software stack, leveraging blockchain incentives to democratize access.

It’s the latest chapter that brings the early Internet’s decentralized ethos to its hardware layer.

The Polygon… pic.twitter.com/HiJ4XjgxhK

— Polygon (Labs) (@0xPolygonLabs) January 22, 2024

DIMO: Transforming Cars into Data Ecosystems

DIMO, or Digital Infrastructure for Moving Objects, is one of the most notable initiatives in the DePIN ecosystem. Additionally, DIMO transforms contemporary automobiles into target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow noopener”>GEODNET, or the Global Earth Observation Decentralized Network, uses DePIN principles to build the world’s largest decentralized Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) network. RTK significantly reduces drift and increases GPS accuracy by using reference stations situated on the ground.

By improving GPS accuracy, GEODNET seeks to provide massively accessible position data with centimeter accuracy. The foundation for advanced Web3 applications like fleet management, lane-level navigation, and automated driver assistance systems is laid by the union of DIMO’s real-time vehicle monitoring and GEODNET’s precise position data. Moreover, GEODNET and DIMO are working together to develop proofs-of-location that safeguard privacy, enhancing Web3 services’ security and privacy.

XNET: Bridging the Connectivity Gap

While the United Nations recognizes network connectivity as a fundamental human right, millions worldwide still lack affordable and reliable internet access.XNET is a mobile network operator that leverages blockchain technology to close the digital gap by employing carrier-grade Wi-Fi bandwidth and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS).

In contrast with traditional carriers, XNET builds and maintains the network infrastructure in collaboration with a community of network operators through a revenue-sharing model. Through the resale of the network to large mobile network operators (MNOs), XNET establishes an autonomous ecosystem.

Fleek: High-Performance Edge Computing

A defining feature of contemporary web architecture is the transition from centralized to distributed computing. Fleek, renowned for its developer-friendly platform, is using its DePIN network to transform into a full-stack developer platform. Fleek Network offers high-performing decentralized edge services, such as Edge Compute, Server-Side Rendering (SSR), Content Delivery Network (CDN), and Databases.

Fleek Network 2024 Preview

2023 marked a significant year for Fleek Network, capped with two successful testnet phases and very promising early performance metrics.

2024 will be even more exciting, with an action-packed Q1 roadmap and mainnet launch later this year

— Fleek Network (@fleek_net) January 4, 2024

By utilizing the Fleek Network, protocols, and apps can benefit from improved performance and decreased dependency on centralized cloud providers. This enables developers to focus on the essential elements of their apps while reaping the benefits of decentralized edge computing.

Space and Time: Data Access for Smart Contracts

Smart contracts have revolutionized how agreements are made in blockchain, but their access to historical data has been limited. Space and Time (SxT) aims to address this by developing a Web3-verified computation layer. Using a decentralized data warehouse, SxT scales zero-knowledge proofs and gives smart contracts access to many indexed data from large chains.

With SxT, smart contracts can now perform target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>new opportunities for applications that depend on historical data access, such as DeFi, analytics, and more.

Lit: Secure Key Management

Lit Protocol contributes significantly to decentralized security by offering a key management network for decentralized signing and encryption. It allows developers to build applications and wallets that leverage secrets without relying on single points of failure.

Additionally, the Lit system provides access control and blockchain-based licensing, enabling innovations like Verify, an open-source system developed by Fox Corp. on Polygon PoS. Verify seeks to authenticate the history and origin of registered media, allowing publishers to encrypt content and limit access to licensed parties.

WiFi Map: Simplifying Internet Access

With over 170 million users, WiFi Map is a super-app that brings internet access and lifestyle services to people worldwide. It provides access to free WiFi spots in over 200 countries, eSIM packages for more than 70 countries, offline maps, and VPN protection.