The Helium (HNT) token is the native cryptocurrency of the Helium network, a decentralized wireless infrastructure aimed at enabling efficient communication for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Launched in 2019, the Helium network incentivizes users to deploy and maintain low-power wireless hotspots, which provide long-range network coverage for IoT devices. Hotspot owners earn HNT tokens as a reward for validating data transmissions and participating in the network's Proof-of-Coverage mechanism.

Helium's network operates through a proprietary protocol called LongFi, which combines the Helium blockchain with LoRaWAN (Low-power Wide-Area Network) technology. This architecture allows the network to transmit small amounts of data over long distances while consuming minimal power, making it ideal for IoT devices such as sensors, trackers, and other low-data-rate applications.

The Helium token economy operates on a Burn-and-Mint Equilibrium model. HNT tokens are burned to create Data Credits, which are used to pay for network services like transmitting data. As more users and devices rely on the network, the demand for Data Credits increases, leading to a reduction in the total supply of HNT, which could potentially increase its value over time.

Helium was co-founded by Amir Haleem, Sean Carey, and Shawn Fanning, the latter being well-known for his role in creating Napster. Their vision is to provide a decentralized, community-driven alternative to traditional IoT connectivity solutions, focusing on scalability, affordability, and security.

The network continues to grow rapidly, with coverage expanding globally. Helium is now exploring further expansion into 5G services through its Helium Mobile initiative, aiming to broaden its wireless services beyond IoT devices.