Wicrypt and peaq Forge New Paths in Bridging the Global Digital Divide with Decentralized Wi-Fi Hotspots

Wicrypt Network, an innovative decentralized mobile Internet sharing and monetization network, has announced its expansion of integration with peaq, the blockchain designed for real-world applications. Marking a significant step forward, Wicrypt has gone live with its first WiFi hotspots on krest, peaq’s sister blockchain, complete with unique peaq IDs. This development is set to streamline the process for new users, making it effortlessly simple to connect to the network with devices that are now compatible with peaq out-of-the-box.

In a world where around 2.7 billion people — a staggering one-third of the global population — still lack access to the internet, Wicrypt’s mission is more pertinent than ever. With internet penetration in Asia and Africa at just 61% and 40% respectively, Wicrypt’s solution targets the very heart of the digital divide. The company’s efforts are particularly impactful in vulnerable communities where the internet’s potential for education, earning, and banking could make the most difference.

The Nigerian startup’s decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN) of WiFi hotspots offers a unique solution to the last-mile delivery challenge of internet access. Through Wicrypt’s network, individuals and businesses can share their internet connection with others and earn tokens proportionate to their usage metrics. With over 1,100 hotspots across more than 30 countries, and serving approximately 45,000 accounts consuming upwards of 895TB of data, Wicrypt’s DePIN is on a rapid ascent.

The integration with peaq, which began in April 2023, has reached a new milestone with several hotspots now operational on krest, peaq’s sister chain. These hotspots are discoverable on Subscan, a blockchain explorer, and are poised to register transactions on krest—a vital function for the hotspots’ future development and reward earnings through krest’s network fee distribution.

Wicrypt has also launched an updated operating system for its devices, ensuring seamless compatibility with peaq from the start. This update provides an immediate benefit for new users and gives existing users the ability to upgrade their systems manually. To facilitate development on peaq, Wicrypt is embracing open-source principles by sharing integration resources, documentation, and instructional videos.

Ugochukwu Aronu, CEO of Wicrypt, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to be moving ahead with this integration and bringing the first hotspots live on krest. As a production-grade network, krest is an ideal testing environment for our developments on peaq. Looking ahead, it will enhance the rewards within our DePIN ecosystem, serving as an excellent incentive to connect the unconnected.”

Echoing this sentiment, Till Wendler, co-founder of peaq, emphasized the importance of tackling the digital divide: “The digital divide is today’s world’s challenge. Seeing krest used as a testing ground for a project that aims to overcome this divide is exhilarating. The deployment of Wicrypt hotspots on krest is just the beginning, as this DePIN tackles the global crisis with advanced Web3 tools and a commitment to making a positive impact.”

With this strategic partnership, Wicrypt and peaq are not just expanding technological frontiers but also paving the way for a more connected, inclusive future. Through innovative Web3 solutions, they stand united in their goal to close the digital gap and empower communities worldwide.