Buy Helium IOT (IOT) in Japan

Helium IOT is a utility token associated with the Helium Network, a decentralized wireless infrastructure project often called The People's Network. This specific token was designed to power the Internet of Things sub-network, which uses the LoRaWAN protocol to provide long-range, low-power connectivity for smart devices like environmental sensors, GPS trackers, and smart meters. Initially, individuals earned these tokens by operating specialized hardware known as hotspots. These devices provided wireless coverage to nearby IoT sensors and participated in a unique consensus mechanism called Proof of Coverage. This system used radio waves to verify that hotspots were truly located where they claimed to be and were providing legitimate network service. In early 2023, the Helium project underwent a major technical transition by migrating its entire ecosystem to the Solana blockchain. This move was intended to improve network scalability and allow developers to focus on wireless infrastructure rather than maintaining a custom blockchain. As part of this migration, the IOT token became a standard SPL token on the Solana network. A significant change to the project's structure occurred in January 2025 following the approval of Helium Improvement Proposal 138. This proposal aimed to simplify the network's economic model by consolidating rewards into a single primary token, HNT. As a result, new emissions of the IOT token were discontinued. Hotspot operators, who previously earned IOT for their contributions to the LoRaWAN network, began receiving HNT rewards directly. Despite the end of new token emissions, the IOT token remains part of the ecosystem. Existing tokens held by users continue to represent a claim on the sub-network's treasury. Holders can redeem their tokens for HNT through a specialized treasury swap contract or exchange them through various decentralized applications on the Solana blockchain. The underlying IoT network itself remains active and continues to grow as a key component of the Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) sector. It provides a community-owned alternative to traditional telecommunications providers, allowing businesses and individuals to connect low-power devices to the internet without relying on centralized cellular or satellite services. The shift toward a unified reward system is intended to reduce complexity for new participants while maintaining the original goal of building a global, decentralized wireless network for the Internet of Things. Learn more