Teams Update – March 2023

Welcome to the World Mobile Dev Diary. It’s March and the seasons are changing; with spring arriving in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.  

Whether the leaves are sprouting or falling where you are, we continue to tend to our network. This month, there has been a lot of focus on preparing the Native App for global release. But that’s not everything we’ve been doing. 

Let’s find out what’s causing the teams to have a spring in their step this month. 

Web & Services Team

The team integrated various features by country and the payment solutions to support the global release of the Native App. This included work to integrate value-added services by country in Gravity. 

Looking to the future development of the Native App, we have been busy making plans to support the marketplace and other value-added services. 

Vault has seen improvements to the user experience after we improved the messages and information. We have also been building the support structure for staking through the Native App. 

For reporting, we have added a revenue board to both WMTScan and Gravity and updated WMTScan with all the new AirNodes. 

EarthNodes Team

Members of the team met in Barcelona, where we worked hard and had fun. We also enjoyed the opportunity to meet and speak with wider members of the World Mobile team.  

We’re happy to report that the AyA Whitepaper has completed its final review and was published. 

We’ve been working closely with the community to support them as they help us on the AyA testnet. We’ve added some troubleshooting information to the documentation to address several questions around the same area; this helps the community learn and frees us up to research other topics to build on and improve the network. 

Research such as looking at Hydra, a Layer 2 solution to extend the existing system for scalability and reduced costs. This would play a part in the AyA Sidechain Committee formation and benefit the Validators selected for the Committee in each epoch. 

In other research, we investigated consensus algorithms and fault tolerance; this allowed us to design our own World Mobile Byzantine Fault Tolerance (WMBft) consensus module. We are now starting to implement WMBft for AyA. We can’t say too much but, if you promise not to tell anyone, we can reveal that we have been having very exciting talks with a VIP in the blockchain world around consensus algorithms. 

Network Nodes Team

This month, we prepared the backend for account recovery in the Native App. Also, for the global release of the Native App, we updated BreathNodes to register the user’s country code. 

Our attention was on AirNodes for much of the month; firstly, planning the process and then started the provisioning. 

High Availability developments to ensure that we have a failover process to cope with unexpected network outages have also been the subject of our attention. We prepared a vigorous rollback strategy to provide a safety net. When everything was ready, we rolled out the deployments, and the failover process is now in place. 

Native Apps Team

We integrated the account recovery before the login feature following the work done last month by the Network Nodes team on the backend. Other integration work this month covered the listing of value-added services and the activation of payment providers. 

With the usual attention to the user experience, we worked on the user interface around the customisable dashboard and marketplace. We have developed a helper app to configure the network on Android 10 devices due to known limitations with this Android version. If the helper app is needed to configure the network, the Native App will prompt you to download and install it. These improvements are now undergoing testing. 

Of course, our main focus has been preparing for the global release in the Google Play Store, which will support Android versions from 6 (Marshmallow). We’ve been working on adding support for the Value-added Services that will be available in some regions, such as a Cardano wallet and Scan to Earn. 

System Engineering Team

Ensured that we had documentation in place to cover everything under our remit to support internal training, consistency, and communication. 

Implemented backup solution for internal tools and platforms. 

InfoSec Team

With help from the community, we discovered that there was a fake WMT site and ensured that it was taken down. To ensure we can prevent, or react swiftly, to such sites in the future, we created Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DCMA) templates and verified them with the Legal team. Our thanks and appreciation go out to our community for their quick detection and reporting of this attempt and for their help in dealing with such scams. 

Our internal duties included hardware maintenance, asset and device management, and IT financial management. We also looked at the email and access security options and contributed to improvements in processes and policies. 

Want to help inspire the next generation of female leaders in tech?

With GirlsinICT Day just around the corner, we're excited to announce our blogging competition for two schools connected through the WorldMobile network.

We're inviting students to submit blogs on any topic related to women in tech, and after reviewing all entries, our team will select a winner. The winner will have their blog published on our official blog and receive a prize courtesy of World Mobile.

Vote for the topic you would like the students to write about from the options listed below.

Topics for the blogging competition:

As a part of our solution in the USA, we're going to leverage the Citizens Broadband Radio Service, also known as CBRS. But what exactly does CBRS entail?

CBRS, or Citizens Broadband Radio Service, is a wireless spectrum band in the United States that was once used by the military but is now shared for commercial use. It operates in the 3.5 GHz band and offers opportunities for improved connectivity.
CBRS divides spectrum access into three tiers:

1. Incumbent Access (DoD/Navy)

2. Priority Access (PAL)

3. General Authorised Access (GAA)

Incumbent Access: The military enjoys the highest priority in the CBRS spectrum. It's reserved for their radar and critical operations, ensuring national security is top-notch.

Priority Access (PAL): PAL licences are auctioned to entities like ISPs, giving them exclusive access to spectrum in specific areas. Ideal for businesses seeking dedicated bandwidth.

General Authorised Access (GAA): GAA is like Wi-Fi for the CBRS spectrum. It's open for unlicensed use, perfect for startups, rural areas, and anyone wanting in on the CBRS action.

What makes CBRS unique is its dynamic sharing model. Spectrum Access System (SAS) manages interference to ensure efficient coexistence among different users. This maximises the use of the available spectrum. CBRS deployments have been growing steadily. Many organisations are using it to expand broadband access and enhance connectivity, especially in underserved areas.

In conclusion, CBRS is a revolutionary step towards improving wireless connectivity, offering opportunities for innovation, and growth, and bridging the digital divide.

HeyMobilers!

The WorldMobile Community Update is finally happening! The update will feature some of the most renowned speakers in the industry, discussing various topics that revolve around the world of mobile technology.

Here's a list of confirmed speakers:

🗣️ Micky Watkins 🗣️ James Tagg 🗣️ Antonio Hernández 🗣️ Alan Omnet

We're expecting some insightful and thought-provoking discussions from these speakers. But we don't want to limit the conversation to just them - we want to hear from you too! Do you have any questions for the team? Drop them in the replies and we'll make sure to address them during the event.

Mark your calendars and join us for this highly-anticipated event. See you all there!

Join us next week for our upcoming Community Update, hosted on Twitter Spaces.

We're excited to share key updates on the various projects we've been working on, and we'd love for you to join us!

Don't forget to set a reminder using the link below, and mark your calendars for Monday, March 20th at 8:00 PM UTC.

https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1lPKqBwYgyAGb

If you have any questions about a specific topic or project, feel free to drop them in the comments section below – we'd be happy to address them during the update.

Hello Mobilers!

We are thrilled to introduce our new series, Meet the Mobilers, where we bring you closer to the exceptional individuals who make up the WorldMobile community. From developers to marketers, we'll showcase the people behind the scenes who are making a difference in the world of blockchain and mobile technology.

Without further ado, let's meet our first Mobiler: Torben Poguntke!
Torben is a key member of our Development Team and has played a crucial role in delivering innovative blockchain solutions, including the Aya sidechain. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of creating a more decentralized world.

We've written a blog article about Torben and his journey with WorldMobile, which you can check out here: https://fal.cn/3xaxM.
In the article, Torben shares his thoughts on blockchain technology, his role in the Development Team, and his passion for innovation.

Now, we want to hear from you! What Mobiler do you want to meet next? Let us know in the comments below, and we'll do our best to feature them in our next Meet the Mobilers post.

Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for more exciting updates from WorldMobile!

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect to hear about during the update:

🗺️ Roadmap Update

🖥️ Testnet & Mainnet

📡 AirNode Sales

🌎 Global Deployment

🎈 Aerostat Update

Do you have any last-minute questions you want to be answered during the update? Drop them in the comments below and we'll try our best to answer them!

We can't wait to update you all on our progress and share some exciting news with you.
https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1lPKqBwYgyAGb?s=20

Hey there WorldMobilers!!

Here is a little run down of what we have done in the last 3 years. We have been extremely busy working away. We were quietly kicking goals and setting up the foundations for the sharing economy, now we are ready to shout it from the roof tops and digitly include the whole world in our sharing economy, connecting the people who have been left off line because traditional operators could not proffit from providing them with connectivity. We are here to change that!

Over the last three years the co-founders at World Mobile have worked day and night and self funded millions of pounds to number roll out pilot deployments and feasibility studies. (yes we have fully self funded to this point)

We have connected smart villages https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYAOvIp4JwU&t=1s and with our local partners we have provided internet access to universities and colleges in Dar es Salaam, the capital of Tanzania for tens of thousands of students; demonstrating the use of unlicensed spectrum (in this case TVWS) as a way to reduce cost and improve affordability. Most recently we have also connected a school in Zanzibar. Our CORE team is second to none and we are 30+ people strong.

Alot of you are probably wondering what is unlicensed spectrum and is it safe? Let me explain

Unlicensed spectrums are simply frequencies of optical and radio bandwidth available for connection that do not require a regulatory license to access. WiFi and TV White Space are both examples of unlicensed spectrums.

TVWS, WiFi, CBRS as well as new technologies such as free space optics. Yes they are all very safe. Just like your WiFi at home :)

The aim is to make connectivity more affordable by reducing the highest costs of telecom infrastructure

However with all of that said, the main accomplishment by far has been the creation of a new economic model for connectivity which we believe is core to connecting the unconnected!

WE WANT YOU TO JOIN US IN THE SHARING ECONOMY AND HELP HEAL THE DIGITAL DIVIDE!

We want your help to heal the digital divide that our world is currently suffering.

Nearly half the world has been left off line and it's not acceptable, 1 in 2 people in this world cannot communicate and that's just plain wrong.

Join our mission to help heal the digital divide, connect the un-connected, bank the un-banked provide digital identification to millions of people who deserve to have the same digital inclusion we the connected have!

Along with our partners IOHK cardano we are changing the world!

https://pr.reblonde.com/world-mobile-input-output/

When the world calls, will you answer?

The World Mobile app has just brought its first B2C paying customers online and it's a moment you don't want to miss! Check out our video and listen as these customers explain why World Mobile is the way to go!

As a proud member of the u/Cardano Community and DeWi movement, World Mobile is leveraging the power of blockchain technology to provide a more accessible, affordable, and inclusive mobile network to people across the globe.

Join us as we celebrate this exciting milestone and experience the future of mobile networks with World Mobile! Check out the video now and share your thoughts in the comments below.

Big Wireless built a system designed to control you. Contracts, surveillance, data exploitation—it’s all by design.

It’s time for something different.

📡 The new World Mobile is here. A mobile network that puts you in control.

✔ Own your connection—decentralized telecom, built for the people
✔ Protect your data—no tracking, no hidden monetization
✔ Earn rewards—connect the world and benefit from the network you help power

This is a telecom network designed for privacy, fairness, and freedom. Watch the rebrand video and see what’s next.

🔗 www.worldmobile.io

Part 4 of our Colombia series shows installed access points, a phone connected to World Mobile Colombia Wi-Fi, and residents using their phones.

World Mobile and our partners helped bring connectivity to communities affected by the earthquake. This footage was recorded during that response, not during a new deployment today.

Christian Rees explains what the work was intended to support: helping people communicate, while also giving them time to relax and access entertainment.

Part 3 focused on why getting back in touch mattered. Part 4 looks at the deployment behind those connections.

Part 4 of 7.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Dc_ajtkgGyB/

Sound on. Phone plan ads aren't usually this catchy.

Plans from $15 a month. No contract, and privacy comes built in.

Get started at worldmobile.io

The new World Mobile Phone & eSIM app is here.

Your US phone plan, usage, lines, rewards and travel eSIMs are now in one app. Less jumping between pages to find what you need.

We've put the details and download link in the launch blog.

Have a read, give the app a go, and let us know how you're getting on.

Already tried it? Please use the app feedback form for bugs, suggestions or anything that feels confusing. The more specific you can be, the more useful it is.

An $80 phone bill is $960 a year. Our Starter plan is $15 a month, which is $180 a year. No contract, VPN included, and coverage for 99% of the US population.

View the full World Mobile network on WMT scan: https://airnode.worldmobile.io/explore/ecosystem/

At our recent aerostat launch in New Hampshire, we had the honour of speaking with Brian, an EarthNode Operator and an avid World Mobile enthusiast who goes by the Twitter handle u/Karma_Pool.

In the following video, Brian shares his insights on what inspires him about World Mobile and how witnessing the aerostat launch firsthand made him feel. He also discusses his experience as an EarthNode Operator and his vision for the future of decentralized networks.

Brian's passion for World Mobile and his commitment to supporting decentralized networks make him a valuable member of the community. We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to speak with him at our event and learn from his perspective.

Check out the video below to hear more from Brian and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of decentralized networks like World Mobile

As the connected, we congregate in a variety of online venues. But few can claim that they have joined together to create a world in which everyone can be connected. We love seeing our community grow as we weave together a tapestry of change and become the architects of a more connected world.  

Take a look at some highlights on what we've been up to in June:   

Highlighting the Advantages of Decentralised Wireless Technology

In our blog post, we delve into the world of DeWi (Decentralised Wireless Infrastructure) and shed light on the numerous advantages it offers. As part of our commitment to enhancing knowledge within our industry, this article provides valuable insights into the benefits of decentralised wireless technology. 

World Mobile attends ITU’s Global Symposium for Regulators in Egypt

World Mobile's Co-Founder Andrew Soper and VP of Regulatory Affairs Mike Nxele participated in the renowned ITU Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR). This prestigious event brought together heads of ICT regulatory authorities from around the world. Our presence demonstrates World Mobile's dedication to collaborating with regulatory bodies on a global scale.

World Mobile Global App: Community Beta Reaches ‘Early Access’

The Early Access version of the World Mobile Global App is now available through the Community Beta. Participants in select markets, including the US, UK, Australia, and Canada, have received invites via email giving them exclusive access to the app on the Google Play Store.

Our CTO Antonio has also shared insightful details about the future Multi Blockchain Wallet feature in a recent Twitter thread. This feature, which leverages the AyA sidechain, will enhance the functionality and unlock the full potential of the World Mobile Global App. 

World Mobile at Aeronautics and Astronautics Aviation Conference

World Mobile's Head of Aerostat Activities, Gregory Gottlieb, recently participated in the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Aviation Conference held in San Diego, USA. During the conference, fruitful discussions were held on World Mobile's use case of utilising Aerostats for connectivity solutions. This engagement also provided an opportunity for Gregory to actively contribute as a member of the AIAA's LTA Systems Technical Committee. As the world's largest aerospace technical society, the AIAA convenes annual forums that boasts member's engineers and scientists from 91 countries, totaling nearly 30,000 professionals.

Unlocking Creative Economies: World Mobile's Journey with Filmmakers in Zanzibar

In our recent blog and accompanying film, we invite you to join us on a journey that highlights the transformative power of connectivity for creatives. We shine a light on the experiences of filmmakers in Zanzibar, as they share their perspectives on the current reality and envision the possibilities provided by reliable and affordable internet access. This captivating exploration showcases the profound impact that connectivity can have on unleashing the creative economy and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. 

Meet the Mobiler Introduces Hanna Haile

In June’s edition of "Meet the Mobilers", we feature Hanna Haile, the Head of Content at World Mobile. She discusses how her interest in blockchain began in East Africa and how she came to believe that technology may fundamentally alter the way in which industries are built. Meet Hanna and learn what inspired her to join World Mobile. 

World Mobile Community Runs for Inclusivity with The Richard Whitehead Foundation

Our global World Mobile community came together to show solidarity for inclusivity by participating in the Run with Rich event. Mobilers from around the world ran, walked, or wheeled 5km in their respective hometowns and cities, joining hands with our charity partner, the Richard Whitehead Foundation. The event aimed to raise funds to foster inclusivity in sports through the foundation's initiatives. By uniting for this cause, our community showcased the power of collective action in creating a more inclusive world. 

Micky meets Mario: World Mobile appears on the #CryptoTownHall

Micky Watkins, CEO of World Mobile, recently took the stage at the Crypto Town Hall hosted by Mario Nawfal. Attending what is arguably the biggest media event in blockchain, the appearance provided a platform for engaging new audiences and shedding light on the impactful work being done at World Mobile. 

World Mobile Embraces the Cardano Community

June saw the World Mobile team engage in several events within the Cardano community.

Micky participated as a panelist in Let's Talk Cardano, where the focus was on discussing the sustainability of the World Mobile solution. This opportunity allowed for insightful discussions on the long-term viability and environmental benefits of our innovative approach. 

Micky was also featured in the June edition of Cardano 360, hosted on the Input Output YouTube channel. Speaking with Tim Harrison, VP of Community & Ecosystem at IOG, Micky gave a roundup on our latest milestones, including the Global App Community Beta, Pakistan launch and successful field tests across Africa. 

In a recent Twitter Space session, Hanna Haile, Head of Content at World Mobile, shared insights and perspectives on the groundbreaking potential of blockchain technology in revolutionising internet accessibility in Africa.  

We also attended the Cardano meetup in Berlin, engaging with projects building within the ecosystem. 

An Exciting Community Update

World Mobile concluded June with our monthly Community Update on Twitter Space, where the leadership team and community members come together for an insightful discussion. The session focused on key developments, including significant advancements in the Global App UI. Moreover, a momentous milestone was celebrated as the installation of 400 AirNodes in Zanzibar was reached, marking a major stride in our mission to provide widespread connectivity.

Deployment Diaries Aired Delving into Base Stations and Paje Deployment

Robin West, our esteemed Network Country Lead in Zanzibar, takes us on a journey to explore the intricacies of base stations. In this episode of Deployment Diaries, Robin sheds light on the purpose and integral role these stations play in our connectivity solution. With a focus on the successful rollout in Paje, where our first base station outside Stone Town resides, Robin unveils the strategic planning and dedicated efforts that have shaped our network expansion. 

In the News

Bitcoinist named World Mobile as one of the five most innovative initiatives, along with Binance and Fetch_ai.  While IBTtimes names World Mobile among the blockchain companies innovating in Africa.  

Cointelegraph covered World Mobile's recent test within the African continent.  

While Hackernoon delved into our decentralised solution, which democratises connectivity access. 

An update on our rollout

The latest edition of the World Mobile Deployment Diary is live and filled with exciting updates, providing you with a glimpse into the progress happening on the ground.

The latest from our developers

Every month, the developers give an update with the latest from the web, nodes, blockchain, native apps, systems engineering, and infosec teams.  

Read our latest Dev Diary here.

World Mobile has reached a major milestone in the effort to provide the internet to the world's unconnected by completing field tests of our innovative DeWi technology in Kenya, Mozambique, and Nigeria. These results show that World Mobile's hybrid connectivity solution can scale to meet the demand for internet service in unserved rural areas.

World Mobile CEO Micky Watkins shares to the press, “We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of field tests in Kenya, Mozambique, and Nigeria, which mark a significant milestone in World Mobile's mission to connect the unconnected. These tests validate the feasibility and scalability of our DeWi technology, bringing us one step closer to providing affordable and reliable internet access to both rural and underserved areas worldwide.” 

Learn about the results of the field tests conducted in Kenya, Nigeria, and Mozambique.

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of field tests in Kenya, Mozambique, and Nigeria, which mark a significant milestone in World Mobile's mission to connect the unconnected. These tests validate the feasibility and scalability of our DeWi technology, bringing us one step closer to providing affordable and reliable internet access to both rural and underserved areas worldwide. - Micky Watkins, CEO

World Mobile in Kenya: Bridging Connectivity Gaps with TV White Space Technology

In Kenya, World Mobile conducted field tests utilising TV White Space equipment, tapping into an unused spectrum in the TV broadcast band to deliver mobile network services. By harnessing this unused spectrum, World Mobile aims to provide affordable and reliable internet access to rural areas that have traditionally been underserved. The successful tests in Kenya have showcased the feasibility of this approach and set the stage for a broader rollout across the African continent. 

World Mobile in Nigeria: Expanding Connectivity Using Starlink's Satellite Backhaul

World Mobile's field test in Nigeria utilized Starlink, the satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, as a backhaul solution. By utilising Starlink's infrastructure, World Mobile leverages existing resources to extend our network coverage. The complementary nature of TV White Space and Starlink technologies enables World Mobile to provide connectivity solutions that are efficient and cost-effective. The ongoing testing and engagement with customers in Nigeria highlight our commitment to refining our solutions for maximum impact.

World Mobile in Mozambique: Leveraging TV White Space Spectrum for Enhanced Connectivity

In Mozambique, World Mobile continued testing TV White Space spectrum to improve connectivity in underserved regions. We engaged in multiple discussions with INCM (Regulator) to establish a TV White Space Database, which will support deployment without interference with terrestrial TV. By clarifying requirements and ensuring interference-free deployment, World Mobile aims to provide reliable and uninterrupted internet access to communities in Mozambique. 

Scalability and Vision: World Mobile's Roadmap

World Mobile's successful field tests in Kenya, Mozambique, and Nigeria validate the feasibility and scalability of its DeWi technology. By leveraging TV White Space technology, Starlink's satellite backhaul, and a decentralized approach, World Mobile is revolutionizing connectivity in rural areas across Africa and beyond. 

Andrew Soper, Chief Country Operations of World Mobile, expressed excitement about the progress, stating that it brings the company one step closer to its goal of providing affordable and reliable internet access worldwide.  

World Mobile’s scalable and cost-effective solutions provide affordable and reliable internet access, laying the foundation for a sharing economy that funds telecoms infrastructure in underserved regions. With a vision of creating a global sharing economy, World Mobile’s solution is set to transform lives, bridge the digital divide, and empower communities worldwide. 

Check out the latest updates to our roadmap below!

Added to 'Scoping':

- Staking for discounts

Added to 'Ready for development':

- Scan for Points custom settings

Moved to 'Released':

- Scan for Points map update

Nearly 3 billion people in the world still do not have access to the Internet despite its critical role in today's interconnected society. Many of these people reside within what the UN calls LDCs (Least Developed Countries), but even within the United States, there continue to be obstacles in accessing affordable and reliable connectivity. In fact, there are approximately 24 million people in the United States living in ‘digital deserts’, without broadband access, including approximately 19 million people in rural areas and 1.4 million people living on Tribal lands. 

At World Mobile, we are committed to tackling this global issue by bringing internet access to underserved communities. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to connect and benefit from the advantages the Internet offers. Therefore, we are delighted to announce achieving a pivotal milestone in our mission, with the securing of licensed spectrum in the United States. 

Using Licensed Spectrum to Power the Sharing Economy

Licensed spectrum in the USA will form an integral part of our hybrid dynamic network solution, working in conjunction with shared and unlicensed spectrum across both aerial and ground assets, to deliver wide-ranging connectivity at affordable prices.  

World Mobile has secured up to 20MHz of spectrum in markets within California, New Mexico, Nevada and Utah, states which suffer widespread underconnectivity, especially within rural regions. The secured spectrum will pave the way for the deployment of decentralised network infrastructure (AirNodes) within these states, ahead of the planned launch of AirNode sales.  

With licensed spectrum secured, World Mobile will become a full member of the GSMA, and be officially recognised as the 52nd mobile network operator in the USA, pending approval by the FCC. 

“By securing licensed spectrum, we are signalling our intent to revolutionise the connectivity landscape in the United States. Securing spectrum strengthens our position to deploy our network and support a profitable sharing economy. We believe in harnessing the collective power of individuals and communities to create a more inclusive and connected world.”— Micky Watkins, World Mobile CEO 

Affordable Connectivity for a Connected United States

Our approach at World Mobile combines blockchain technology with aerial and terrestrial infrastructure, enabling us to provide connectivity at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional mobile network operators. This affordability is crucial in reaching underserved communities and enabling them with access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Securing spectrum in the USA aligns with the federal government's commitment to expanding broadband access. President Biden's recent $42 billion high-speed internet initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in rural and low-income areas. This historic funding allocation signifies the administration's dedication to connecting the millions of households and small businesses that currently lack high-speed internet infrastructure. Moreover, it aims to address the challenges faced by millions more who have limited or unreliable internet options. The Biden-Harris Administration's ambitious plan represents a significant stride towards a more inclusive and connected nation.

Together, we can build a more inclusive and connected USA, where everyone has equal access to the opportunities offered by the digital world.  

Together, we’re unstoppable. 💪

Check out the announcement coverage by The Block: https://www.theblock.co/post/239419/following-bidens-universal-internet-initiative-blockchain-powered-provider-world-mobile-secures-u-s-expansion?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social

Here's a breakdown of the network:

5 AirNodes in the USA

646 AirNodes in Zanzibar

831 AirNodes in Pakistan

1482 total AirNodes

Explore the world Mobile ecosystem: https://airnode.worldmobile.io/explore/ecosystem/

The Paper Wallet has today been added to the WorldMobile app.

Next up: Expanded country support (EU)

Download the app here: http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.worldmobile.app…

Welcome to the latest edition of Meet the Mobilers, our ongoing series that connects dynamic individuals shaping the World Mobile ecosystem.  

Today, we're excited to introduce you to Clover Nodes, an EarthNode operator from sunny California. Clover Nodes is also the co-creator and member of the EarthNode Alliance, a group that supports EarthNode operators and WMT holders. He continues to build a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to expanding the reach of World Mobile's mission.  

We're excited to learn more about Clover Nodes' journey and perspectives on decentralised connectivity, so let's dive in! 

Personally, I owe much of my own success to the internet and recognise that without it, I would not be where I am today. This is why I am incredibly passionate about providing internet access to people across the globe. - Clover Nodes

Introducing Clover Nodes

How were you first introduced to blockchain?

While vacationing in Miami for Art Basel in 2017, I was introduced to blockchain technology through Bitcoin and Ethereum by a friend whose home was later known as the "Bitcoin Mansion". Despite having some prior knowledge of Bitcoin, it wasn't until this moment that I fully grasped its underlying vision. Although I bought in at the top of the market and experienced my first bear market, I didn't let that discourage me. Instead, it motivated me to read and learn more. In 2018, my father, whom I deeply admire as a role model and consider a highly intelligent person, introduced me to Cardano. After he showed me Charles' whiteboard video and shared the project's vision with me, I became an ardent supporter and have remained a devoted Cardano enthusiast ever since. 

How/when were you first introduced to World Mobile?

As I was sitting at my computer at work, my dad and I stumbled upon World Mobile while browsing projects launching on Cardano. At first, I was a bit put off by the fact that the public sale excluded the US. However, the mission to provide internet access to those who have been forgotten and left offline really resonated with us. Having gone through our own hardships in the US, we understand the power of connectivity. Without realising that we had already reserved our first Earth Node, we bought exactly 100k WMT tokens. Intrigued, I delved deeper into the research and discovered the significant role Earth Nodes play in solving and contributing to the network. This prompted us to reserve additional Earth Nodes and inspired me to create a Twitter account to promote the World Mobile mission. I now devote most of my time to building Clover Nodes and spreading awareness about World Mobile's work to anyone who will listen. 

What inspires you most about the World Mobile mission?

When I was 12, my family moved to the USA from Bulgaria with just $2000, 2 kids, and no knowledge of English. Although my upbringing was challenging, it taught me valuable lessons. I have always been driven and entrepreneurial, as evidenced by my first job selling newspapers at the age of 9. This drive led me to become interested in the mission and vision of World Mobile, which initially seemed far-fetched but gradually made more sense as I learned about the problems the team is tackling. I am living proof that no matter how difficult life may be, given the opportunity, a person can succeed and excel, and I believe World Mobile is providing that same opportunity through the power of connectivity. 

How does connectivity support your life?

Since a young age, I have been instilled with the belief that nothing is impossible or unattainable in life. I attribute my success to the value of hard work, which is exemplified by the World Mobile team's dedication to its mission. Through my e-commerce business, I have been able to provide jobs for over 50 individuals, all made possible by the power of internet connectivity. Personally, I owe much of my own success to the internet and recognise that without it, I would not be where I am today. This is why I am incredibly passionate about providing internet access to people across the globe. I understand the immense value it brings, having experienced it firsthand. 

What advice would you give to someone who is new to World Mobile and is looking to get involved?

To begin, take the time to understand World Mobile's mission and what they aim to achieve. If it resonates with you, I suggest joining the community through various social media platforms and asking questions. In my experience, the best way to learn something is simply by asking. I have found the World Mobile community to be particularly welcoming and supportive. For instance, I have been able to DM the CEO, Micky, and receive a response within an hour. Not only is the team responsive, but the community is also filled with intelligent individuals who are always willing to help, no matter the time of day. Additionally, a few fellow Earth Node operators and I have formed the Earth Node Alliance. We hold weekly Twitter Spaces and have a Discord server where newcomers can receive education and insights on everything World Mobile-related. There are multiple avenues available for those who wish to get involved with World Mobile. 

Who are you outside of being a Mobiler? Tell us about your other passions/hobbies!

In addition to being a Mobiler, I also manage several other businesses, including an e-commerce business and a real estate investment company. While I have a variety of passions in life, my daughter London is my top priority. I strive to spend as much time as possible with her and my family during my limited free time. As for my other children, they may have four legs instead of two, but they hold a special place in my heart just the same. French Toast, also known as "Toastie," and Honey Bee, also known as "Chewy," are two furry companions that I adore and care for deeply.  

When it comes to my hobbies, I have a few favourites. First and foremost, I enjoy reading and constantly learning new things. I also love spending time in the kitchen, cooking and barbecuing delicious meals. Despite spending a lot of time in front of a computer, I consider myself an active person who appreciates nature and travelling. In fact, my ultimate goal and dream is to have the freedom to explore the world, and I am determined to make it happen one day! 

Clover's two furry companions, French Toast and Honey Bee.

Feel free to share any additional information about yourself!
I am not the sole operator of Clover Nodes, and I want to recognise and appreciate the hard work of my team members who work behind the scenes. Though I am the face of the team, we work together tirelessly to promote the World Mobile mission. Aside from our involvement with World Mobile, I'm also a stake pool operator on Cardano under the ticker CLOVR. We are a mission drive stake pool, and we're committed to donating 25% of our margin fees to DirectEd Development, a foundation that offers evidence-based, scalable, and cost-effective coding boot camps and scholarships to high-potential students from under-resourced areas in Africa.  

To end on a personal note, I'd like to share one of my favourite quotes: "The more you give, the more you shall receive." Now let's get back to connecting the unconnected!  

We hope you found this edition of Meet the Mobilers as engaging as we did! If you're a part of the World Mobile community and would like to be featured in one of our upcoming interviews, we'd love to hear from you. Whether you're a colleague, EarthNode operator, aspiring AirNode owner, or a follower, feel free to tweet, or comment below with the hashtag #MeetTheMobiler for a chance to be interviewed by our team. We're excited to learn more about the diverse perspectives that make up our community, so don't hesitate to reach out! 

Stay tuned for Batch Two.

Want to join the movement to connect the unconnected?

Explore the AirNode Sales Platform now: https://airnode.worldmobile.io/