Texas Town Converts Wi-Fi to Cell Coverage with Helium Partnership

Celina, Texas has found an innovative solution to its rapid population growth and lack of cell coverage. The city's information technology director, Amy Alexander, announced that they had partnered with Helium (HNT) to convert their existing Wi-Fi networks into carrier-grade coverage.

The project, which was deployed on Friday, covers the Celina Public Library, the Ralph O'Dell Senior Center, and some downtown shops. Phones automatically connect to these hotspots using credentials stored on the SIM card, without the need for an app or password.

This is not a new concept, as AT&T had already signed on to the Helium system in April 2025, which enables automatic connections. The city's decision to use Helium was driven by its rapid growth, having added 12,710 residents in the past year and growing at a rate of 24.6%.

The news of the partnership sent Helium's token price soaring nearly 100%, with over $37 million in market value being added overnight. The trading volume was also high, with close to $44 million changing hands in a day, more than half of the token's total market value.