On September 26, 2024, Roam hosted an AMA featuring a special speaker, YZ, Co-Founder of Roam. Read our X Space recap to discover insider stories and exciting highlights from the !MPACT 2049 event in Singapore, as well as to learn what’s next for Roam.
Guests and Project Introduction
YZ: Hello, I’m YZ, co-founder of Roam. I have been with Roam since the beginning and handle the tech side. Roam is a global roaming network to connect all public WiFi into one and provides a seamless and secure connectivity solution for everyone. We’re also offering eSIM packages, which will eventually provide connectivity to all users, whether they are in a specific location or on the go.
Three years ago, when the WBA was trying to promote OpenRoaming and encourage everyone to upgrade their WiFi to the latest standards, they faced several challenges, particularly regarding adoption. To address this issue, we spent 18 months building Roam (formerly known as MetaBlox) and making it the only Web3 ID provider in the OpenRoaming Alliance. Thanks to the community, we are now the largest decentralized network, with a goal of reaching 10 million users. Let’s build this together!
Panel Discussion
Question 1: How do you feel about the !mpact 2049 overall?
YZ: We were very nervous at first since it was our first time hosting such a big event. We had around 2,600 registrations and expected around 20% to attend, but in reality, over 1,500 people showed up, and the space was packed. On one hand, we were thrilled to see such strong community engagement, especially from the DePIN community. On the other hand, we had to focus on keeping everything organized. We were lucky that the outdoor seating area hosted by the restaurant allowed more people to gather. I’ll never forget sitting on the ground with Lily Liu from the Solana Foundation, discussing collaborations between the Solana community and Roam. Overall, it was a fantastic experience.
Question 2: Why did you choose Singapore as the first location to host !MPACT 2049?
YZ: Singapore is very unique. It serves as a bridge between East and West and as a hub for the crypto community. Singapore has an ideal location too. The distance from Singapore to Dubai is the same as from Singapore to North America, and it is close to other Asian countries. The energy there was incredible, especially during Token 2049. Almost everyone I know in the crypto industry went to Singapore. The atmosphere is perfect for the crypto industry, and I hope some of our community members could attend our event.
Question 3: What key announcements did Roam make at the event?
YZ: !MPACT 2049 is not just a gathering event for us; it marks a pivotal moment for Roam as we made three major announcements: the Physical Layer 1 and Decentralized Telecom Data Layer, the eSIM feature, and the Hardware Financing Program.
Physical Layer and Decentralized Telecom Data Layer
The first concept is Physical Layer 1 (L1), which stems from Roam’s initiative to build a decentralized telecom data layer. The most valuable part is our location and time data. Essentially, Roam functions as a network that processes this data, much like how blockchain serves as a ledger that processes transaction data. Roam acts as a network processing location and time-based data. Blockchain is Layer 1, which enables users to build applications on top of that. Roam also has network users, and because they generate data, we can build applications on top of Roam. Many projects are already approaching us to join our ecosystem.
The Physical L1 concept parallels traditional blockchain networks. If blockchain L1 serves as a highway, with applications functioning as buses and users as passengers, then Roam acts as a telecom or power grid, directly connecting users through its services while supporting the highways in every possible way. Both blockchain L1 and Roam mutually support each other.
eSIM Plans
Our eSIM solution is driven by user demand for secure and seamless connectivity wherever they go. Unlike regular eSIMs that users can just buy and use, we reward people with eSIM data when they help build the WiFi networks. By Checking-In and validating our networks, users can receive free eSIM data.
This approach means users can enjoy free WiFi and eSIM services, providing a low-cost, global solution. For instance, while Canadians may pay around $50 monthly for mobile data and $15 daily when traveling, our data packages are accessible globally at minimal costs, making it easier for everyone in the world to stay connected.
The world’s first DePIN hardware financing program
To make miners affordable for everyone, Roam is introducing the world’s first DePIN hardware financing program with Huma Finance. Users may only need to put down a 25% deposit, with financing options covering the remaining amount.
Once you have the Roam miner, you can start mining right away. Your initial mining rewards will help pay back your loan. If the token price rises significantly, you have the option to repay your loan more quickly, allowing you to benefit from the upside of tokenization. This strategy aims to accelerate the deployment of open roaming globally, with a goal of achieving a 20% upgrade in global WiFi open roaming. That is 100 million gateways to be deployed in the next 5 to 10 years.
Question 4: What can we look forward to in the near future, and what are the long-term goals for Roam?
YZ: Absolutely! We have multiple focus areas moving forward:
From the business side: Our goal is to continue providing free and secure connectivity to everyone worldwide. Currently, we have around 800,000 users, but we aim to grow that number into the millions to create a real impact and change lives. Additionally, our eSIM data package will soon be available in 190 countries, allowing global access.
Regarding the token side: Many have asked us about the timeline for listing our token. However, our strategy focuses on ensuring that Roam stands out as a top choice whenever exchanges consider listing projects in the decentralized telecom sector. In June, we announced our commitment to protecting the rights of early participants. This is why the stickers you collect now will reflect your engagement and provide you with a different rate when you burn them for our tokens. Plus, we now have a 20 million token airdrop to reward those currently involved in building the network.
We are continuing to work with communities and exchanges, as we understand the importance of the token in kicking off the flywheel of Roam. Our deepening flywheel is already in motion with our points and new eSIM data packages. I believe the release of the token will significantly accelerate the speed of network growth.
On the product side: We are focused on four main sectors. For the network side, we have our miners and access points, and soon, we’ll introduce new applications for these gateways. We’re also working with high-profile projects for network sharing, which will be announced to the community later. We have also introduced the Roam Growth Product, where our network can generate real-world revenues. Next is the Roam Discovery Product. Many projects have already contacted Roam to work together, and we are supporting them. By participating in the Roam Discovery Product, you will have access to all support provided by Roam. Lastly, the Roam Community. We have many exciting events planned, and I encourage everyone to engage actively. I would like to remind everyone that your involvement goes beyond simply collecting airdrops or small rewards. You’re part of a movement that aims to change lives, similar to early Bitcoin participants who saw significant returns over time.
