Author: Joseph This article does not represent the views of Wu Shuo. In the wave of Web3 and the rise of the encryption economy, DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network) is becoming the core bridge connecting the real off-chain world with the encryption on-chain. As a leader in this field, Roam combines WiFi hotspot sharing, eSIM communication, AI Algorithm, and community incentives to build a Decentralized communication network covering more than 190 countries worldwide. Currently, Roam has over 2.3 million registered users and Nodes, especially in regions such as Southeast Asia where the encryption industry is thriving, it has a wide user base. This article will analyze the innovation logic and ecological value of Roam. Roam's core products and services include the following aspects: (1) Roam APP Users download the Roam APP and earn Roam points by sharing mobile network performance data (such as signal strength, speed, and coverage), adding WiFi Nodes, checking in, and inviting friends, etc. These points can be exchanged for ROAM Tokens, airline miles, call credits, etc., incentivizing users to continue participating. In addition, the app also provides seamless connection to Roam WiFi hotspots, enhancing the user experience. (2) Hardware Products The hardware products mainly include Roam Miners (such as Rainier MAX60 and Baker MAX30 routers). Users can purchase WiFi routers to deploy and expand Roam's Decentralization network while earning more points rewards. The pricing of devices such as the Rainier MAX60 router is on par with similar consumer-grade products, and can even be obtained through the Roam Loan Program with a 30% down payment, with the remaining cost offset by Mining earnings. (3) Roam eSIM Roam eSIM is a virtual eSIM card launched by Roam, which combines all the advantages of an eSIM card without the need to replace the physical card when used, and can be used without replacing the original eSIM card. Currently covering over 180 countries, it also supports payments in USDT, cash, and credit cards. (4) Telecom Data Layer Roam's Telecom Data Layer creates a Decentralized data network by collecting user network performance data, providing reliable data for AI model training. According to Roam Explorer, as of March 4th, Roam has a total of 2.384 million registered users, 2.16 million self-built Nodes globally, and has completed 186 million check-ins.
According to the "2024 DePIN Annual Report" released by Messari, in 2024, more than 13 million devices globally contribute to DePIN daily. Among the top projects with over a million active Nodes, Roam ranks fourth, receiving high praise in dimensions such as technical practicality, user scale, and ecosystem value. Additionally, since December 2024, Roam has consistently held the top spot in the DePIN Scan hardware Node rankings, with its technical framework highlighted by Solana as an industry-leading case study, showcasing its benchmark position in the Web3 infrastructure field. Technology Moat: OpenRoaming and DID, Safeguarding Security and Privacy Roam's rapid rise to lead the global wireless network innovation is supported by a series of hardcore technologies behind it. Its technological moat stems from two core capabilities: the fusion of OpenRoaming technology and DID and VC technologies. As the only Web3 identity provider in the global Wireless Broadband Alliance's OpenRoaming plan, Roam deeply integrates enterprise-level wireless roaming protocols with a Decentralization architecture. Its network supports cellular-level seamless automatic switching, allowing user devices to transition between different WiFi hotspots seamlessly, with communication fully encrypted, rivaling the security of a 5G private network. This technology addresses the pain points of cumbersome access and low security in traditional public WiFi, making Roam the preferred communication solution for global business travelers. Roam already boasts over 4.5 million OpenRoaming™ available WiFi hotspots in more than 190 countries globally, with coverage continuing to expand. At the same time, Roam has built a Decentralization user identity system through Distributed Identity (DID) and Verifiable Credentials (VC) technologies. Through the DID mechanism, users can create digital identities under their own control, completing identity verification when connecting to the network without repeatedly providing sensitive personal information. Each DID is backed by a user-owned key to cryptographically prove their identity, avoiding the privacy intrusion of traditional centralized authentication. VC technology provides verifiable digital credentials for identities and Nodes in the network, ensuring that only trusted devices and users can participate in Roam network connections and collaborations. Overall, user data ownership belongs entirely to individuals, and network contribution activities (such as bandwidth sharing and data uploads) generate immutable contribution certificates through on-chain verification, ensuring transparency and fairness in incentive distribution. This architecture not only provides a high-quality, traceable telecom Data Layer for AI training but also significantly lowers the entry barriers for Web2 users through a "mine as you use" free business model—users can enjoy global roaming services without upfront costs, while behavior data generated by network usage feeds back into AI model training after desensitization, forming a sustainable data economy loop. Users not only enjoy convenience but also benefit from contributing to the network, thereby organically growing the Roam community. This community-driven, free internet access plus incentive strategy is one of the key reasons for Roam's rapid accumulation of users and Node resources. OpenRoaming WiFi + eSIM Top-Up: Dual-Engine Drive At the product level, Roam adopts the dual-engine solution of OpenRoaming WiFi + eSIM Top-Up to create a seamless connectivity experience for global users anytime, anywhere. In simple terms, Roam combines open WiFi access with cellular data services on the same platform: when users are in covered areas, the Roam app automatically connects to nearby OpenRoaming™ WiFi hotspots; and when there is no WiFi coverage, Roam seamlessly switches to its provided eSIM cellular data service, ensuring users stay online at all times. This intelligent switching solution enables users to enjoy uninterrupted network access anywhere without manually changing SIM cards or repeatedly entering login information. For frequent travelers, Roam's solution greatly facilitates cross-border communication, truly achieving a global network experience. Roam eSIM covers over 190 countries and regions, allowing mobile devices to automatically switch to local data networks upon arrival at any destination, without incurring roaming charges. The entire process does not require physical SIM card replacement or cumbersome procedures and is fully managed by the Roam app in the background. New users applying for Roam eSIM for the first time receive a complimentary 50MB of free data, and subsequently, individuals can earn up to 5 GB of free eSIM data rewards through activities such as signing in to WiFi hotspots and completing tasks within the Roam App. Roam has also launched continuous check-in activities for eSIM, where users can accumulate nearly 1GB of additional free data by checking in for 7 consecutive days, incentivizing long-term usage. When users have higher data requirements, they can also directly top up eSIM data packages within the app. It is worth mentioning that Roam eSIM's charges are quite cost-effective: compared to traditional roaming packages from mobile operators, Roam's communication costs can be reduced by approximately 30% to 80%. For example, users can receive a $65 data credit for their initial $50 recharge, enjoying an additional $15 bonus. The purchased data is deducted based on actual usage, without expiration issues, offering flexibility beyond traditional carrier packages. This high-value proposition makes Roam eSIM highly attractive to international travelers and business professionals. At the Consensus Hong Kong 2025 conference in late February, Roam provided free eSIM data access to users from around the world. Value Support in the DePIN Era: Commercial Prospects Combining Telecom Data Layer with AI Apart from providing connectivity services to individual users, Roam's underlying architecture builds a telecom Data Layer with profound business value. The numerous Nodes in the Roam network generate massive real-time data during operation, such as network connection conditions in different geographic locations and times, device access data, etc. After being collected and processed by Roam's Decentralization architecture, these anonymous massive data sets form a telecom-level data resource pool. These real-world network data sources can serve as valuable materials for AI model training and optimization. The distributed data in the Roam network is more diverse and reliable, providing a training foundation for artificial intelligence closer to real-world scenarios. This open data foundation created by Roam can benefit any AI or IoT application that requires large-scale real network data in the future. Roam's rapid rise has also garnered high attention from the capital market. At the end of 2023, Roam completed a $5 million strategic financing round led by prominent institutions such as Anagram and Volt Capital, providing further momentum for its development. Subsequently, in April 2024, Samsung Next, a tech giant under Samsung, made a strategic investment in Roam. It is worth mentioning that this investment is Samsung Next's sole capital injection into the DePIN field in 2024. Samsung Next's support not only brings funding but also represents the recognition of Roam's model by traditional large tech companies. Roam has accumulated over $10 million in funding, with resources continuously directed towards hardware R&D and regional market penetration.
The content is for reference only, not a solicitation or offer. No investment, tax, or legal advice provided. See Disclaimer for more risks disclosure.
One article to understand Roam: Decentralization communication network covering over 190 countries
Author: Joseph This article does not represent the views of Wu Shuo. In the wave of Web3 and the rise of the encryption economy, DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network) is becoming the core bridge connecting the real off-chain world with the encryption on-chain. As a leader in this field, Roam combines WiFi hotspot sharing, eSIM communication, AI Algorithm, and community incentives to build a Decentralized communication network covering more than 190 countries worldwide. Currently, Roam has over 2.3 million registered users and Nodes, especially in regions such as Southeast Asia where the encryption industry is thriving, it has a wide user base. This article will analyze the innovation logic and ecological value of Roam. Roam's core products and services include the following aspects: (1) Roam APP Users download the Roam APP and earn Roam points by sharing mobile network performance data (such as signal strength, speed, and coverage), adding WiFi Nodes, checking in, and inviting friends, etc. These points can be exchanged for ROAM Tokens, airline miles, call credits, etc., incentivizing users to continue participating. In addition, the app also provides seamless connection to Roam WiFi hotspots, enhancing the user experience. (2) Hardware Products The hardware products mainly include Roam Miners (such as Rainier MAX60 and Baker MAX30 routers). Users can purchase WiFi routers to deploy and expand Roam's Decentralization network while earning more points rewards. The pricing of devices such as the Rainier MAX60 router is on par with similar consumer-grade products, and can even be obtained through the Roam Loan Program with a 30% down payment, with the remaining cost offset by Mining earnings. (3) Roam eSIM Roam eSIM is a virtual eSIM card launched by Roam, which combines all the advantages of an eSIM card without the need to replace the physical card when used, and can be used without replacing the original eSIM card. Currently covering over 180 countries, it also supports payments in USDT, cash, and credit cards. (4) Telecom Data Layer Roam's Telecom Data Layer creates a Decentralized data network by collecting user network performance data, providing reliable data for AI model training. According to Roam Explorer, as of March 4th, Roam has a total of 2.384 million registered users, 2.16 million self-built Nodes globally, and has completed 186 million check-ins. According to the "2024 DePIN Annual Report" released by Messari, in 2024, more than 13 million devices globally contribute to DePIN daily. Among the top projects with over a million active Nodes, Roam ranks fourth, receiving high praise in dimensions such as technical practicality, user scale, and ecosystem value. Additionally, since December 2024, Roam has consistently held the top spot in the DePIN Scan hardware Node rankings, with its technical framework highlighted by Solana as an industry-leading case study, showcasing its benchmark position in the Web3 infrastructure field. Technology Moat: OpenRoaming and DID, Safeguarding Security and Privacy Roam's rapid rise to lead the global wireless network innovation is supported by a series of hardcore technologies behind it. Its technological moat stems from two core capabilities: the fusion of OpenRoaming technology and DID and VC technologies. As the only Web3 identity provider in the global Wireless Broadband Alliance's OpenRoaming plan, Roam deeply integrates enterprise-level wireless roaming protocols with a Decentralization architecture. Its network supports cellular-level seamless automatic switching, allowing user devices to transition between different WiFi hotspots seamlessly, with communication fully encrypted, rivaling the security of a 5G private network. This technology addresses the pain points of cumbersome access and low security in traditional public WiFi, making Roam the preferred communication solution for global business travelers. Roam already boasts over 4.5 million OpenRoaming™ available WiFi hotspots in more than 190 countries globally, with coverage continuing to expand. At the same time, Roam has built a Decentralization user identity system through Distributed Identity (DID) and Verifiable Credentials (VC) technologies. Through the DID mechanism, users can create digital identities under their own control, completing identity verification when connecting to the network without repeatedly providing sensitive personal information. Each DID is backed by a user-owned key to cryptographically prove their identity, avoiding the privacy intrusion of traditional centralized authentication. VC technology provides verifiable digital credentials for identities and Nodes in the network, ensuring that only trusted devices and users can participate in Roam network connections and collaborations. Overall, user data ownership belongs entirely to individuals, and network contribution activities (such as bandwidth sharing and data uploads) generate immutable contribution certificates through on-chain verification, ensuring transparency and fairness in incentive distribution. This architecture not only provides a high-quality, traceable telecom Data Layer for AI training but also significantly lowers the entry barriers for Web2 users through a "mine as you use" free business model—users can enjoy global roaming services without upfront costs, while behavior data generated by network usage feeds back into AI model training after desensitization, forming a sustainable data economy loop. Users not only enjoy convenience but also benefit from contributing to the network, thereby organically growing the Roam community. This community-driven, free internet access plus incentive strategy is one of the key reasons for Roam's rapid accumulation of users and Node resources. OpenRoaming WiFi + eSIM Top-Up: Dual-Engine Drive At the product level, Roam adopts the dual-engine solution of OpenRoaming WiFi + eSIM Top-Up to create a seamless connectivity experience for global users anytime, anywhere. In simple terms, Roam combines open WiFi access with cellular data services on the same platform: when users are in covered areas, the Roam app automatically connects to nearby OpenRoaming™ WiFi hotspots; and when there is no WiFi coverage, Roam seamlessly switches to its provided eSIM cellular data service, ensuring users stay online at all times. This intelligent switching solution enables users to enjoy uninterrupted network access anywhere without manually changing SIM cards or repeatedly entering login information. For frequent travelers, Roam's solution greatly facilitates cross-border communication, truly achieving a global network experience. Roam eSIM covers over 190 countries and regions, allowing mobile devices to automatically switch to local data networks upon arrival at any destination, without incurring roaming charges. The entire process does not require physical SIM card replacement or cumbersome procedures and is fully managed by the Roam app in the background. New users applying for Roam eSIM for the first time receive a complimentary 50MB of free data, and subsequently, individuals can earn up to 5 GB of free eSIM data rewards through activities such as signing in to WiFi hotspots and completing tasks within the Roam App. Roam has also launched continuous check-in activities for eSIM, where users can accumulate nearly 1GB of additional free data by checking in for 7 consecutive days, incentivizing long-term usage. When users have higher data requirements, they can also directly top up eSIM data packages within the app. It is worth mentioning that Roam eSIM's charges are quite cost-effective: compared to traditional roaming packages from mobile operators, Roam's communication costs can be reduced by approximately 30% to 80%. For example, users can receive a $65 data credit for their initial $50 recharge, enjoying an additional $15 bonus. The purchased data is deducted based on actual usage, without expiration issues, offering flexibility beyond traditional carrier packages. This high-value proposition makes Roam eSIM highly attractive to international travelers and business professionals. At the Consensus Hong Kong 2025 conference in late February, Roam provided free eSIM data access to users from around the world. Value Support in the DePIN Era: Commercial Prospects Combining Telecom Data Layer with AI Apart from providing connectivity services to individual users, Roam's underlying architecture builds a telecom Data Layer with profound business value. The numerous Nodes in the Roam network generate massive real-time data during operation, such as network connection conditions in different geographic locations and times, device access data, etc. After being collected and processed by Roam's Decentralization architecture, these anonymous massive data sets form a telecom-level data resource pool. These real-world network data sources can serve as valuable materials for AI model training and optimization. The distributed data in the Roam network is more diverse and reliable, providing a training foundation for artificial intelligence closer to real-world scenarios. This open data foundation created by Roam can benefit any AI or IoT application that requires large-scale real network data in the future. Roam's rapid rise has also garnered high attention from the capital market. At the end of 2023, Roam completed a $5 million strategic financing round led by prominent institutions such as Anagram and Volt Capital, providing further momentum for its development. Subsequently, in April 2024, Samsung Next, a tech giant under Samsung, made a strategic investment in Roam. It is worth mentioning that this investment is Samsung Next's sole capital injection into the DePIN field in 2024. Samsung Next's support not only brings funding but also represents the recognition of Roam's model by traditional large tech companies. Roam has accumulated over $10 million in funding, with resources continuously directed towards hardware R&D and regional market penetration.