Decentralized connectivity platform Uplink.xyz, led by Forbes-featured CEO Carlos Lei Santos, aims to expand internet access through blockchain infrastructure

Uplink.xyz – GoDaddy customer – (Portugal)  Builders use .xyz domains to develop decentralized infrastructure and create tools for onchain networks. Decentralized storage platform Walrus.xyz launches with scalable data recovery and verification tools. Real-time platform MagicBlock.xyz introduces tools for faster Solana applications. Blockchain platform Conduit.xyz seeks to simplify rollup deployment with streamlined solutions for onchain data interaction. In this week’s #BlockchainThursday, we’ll introduce you to a platform designed to help individuals and enterprises build, share, and access internet connectivity through decentralized infrastructure: Uplink.xyz.

Decentralizing connectivity: Introducing Uplink’s global vision

Uplink.xyz is the online home of Uplink, a platform building what it describes as the world’s first decentralized connectivity ecosystem. Uplink is designed to help individuals and organizations provide and access internet infrastructure in a more open and flexible way. The project focuses on expanding global connectivity by allowing anyone to share internet access, incentivizing infrastructure deployments, and simplifying management across devices and networks. In May 2024, Uplink announced a funding round led by Borderless Capital and the Hivemind Capital-backed DePIN Ninja Fund to support the expansion of its connectivity ecosystem.¹

A blockchain-powered ecosystem for shared internet infrastructure

Uplink’s decentralized approach includes tools and incentives for providers, enterprises, and consumers to participate in the network. Providers can deploy and share connectivity while earning compensation for infrastructure maintenance. Enterprises can manage their devices through a decentralized platform designed to streamline operations and expand coverage. According to the Uplink litepaper, the platform uses blockchain-based systems for billing, settlements, and contracts, including a dual token model ($ULX and Network Credits) intended to power the network’s governance and transactions. Uplink has already launched deployments in select regions and leverages partnerships (such as with the Wireless Broadband Alliance) to support growth across a projected $100 billion global roaming market.

Meet the founders behind Uplink’s technical and strategic leadership

Uplink’s co-founder and CEO Carlos Lei Santos launched the company in 2015 under the name HypeLabs. He participated in the Deutsche Telekom hub:raum WARP accelerator and AngelPad #10 startup accelerator, and was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in Europe for Technology in 2021. ²According to his LinkedIn profile, HypeLabs developed mesh networking solutions that enabled devices to communicate without internet access, supporting use cases like point-of-sale systems, IoT connectivity, and rural networks. Co-founder and CTO André Francisco has over 20 years of experience in computer science and previously held research roles at INESC TEC, CRACS, the Porto Interactive Center, and the Portuguese Institute of Telecommunications. He now leads Uplink’s technical direction, including development of its blockchain platform, infrastructure management tools, and the Uplink App.

The evolution to Uplink.xyz: A domain that matches the mission

In 2020, the company rebranded to Uplink, and upgraded its domain from hypelabs.io to Uplink.xyz. The transition to a .xyz domain reflects Uplink’s commitment to building scalable, decentralized infrastructure. As a domain extension favored by forward-looking developers and blockchain projects, .xyz offers the flexibility suited for a platform expanding across connectivity, enterprise, and real-world deployment.  You can learn more by following the company on X/Twitter @uplink_xyz and LinkedIn @uplink-xyz, joining the Discord, and by visiting Uplink.xyz. ^{1.https://www.alleywatch.com/2024/05/uplink-decentralized-wireless-internet-access-depin-carlos-lei-santos/ 2.https://www.forbes.com/profile/carlos-lei-santos/}

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