News Summary

NBA champion Tristan Thompson has announced a partnership with global telecom company World Mobile to launch a new community-owned mobile network called Uplift. Unveiled at TechCrunch Disrupt, Uplift offers unlimited data plans starting at $9.99 per month, aiming to provide affordable connectivity while challenging the traditional centralized telecom model. Built on blockchain technology and a Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN), Uplift allows local hosts, or ‘AirNode operators’, to earn revenue by providing community coverage. This initiative seeks to empower communities by ensuring that wealth generated from mobile usage stays within the neighborhoods. The service has been piloted in Reno, Nevada, where community hosts reportedly earned over $10,000 annually. Uplift will begin rolling out in Cleveland, Ohio, with plans to expand to other cities in 2026. Thompson, known for his basketball achievements, also holds multiple roles across the Web3 and fintech sectors, emphasizing his commitment to innovation and community support.