AirNodes Explained: Create Coverage. Earn Rewards.

AirNodes Explained: Create Coverage. Earn Rewards.

AirNodes aren’t just hardware. They’re a revolution in connectivity.

While traditional mobile towers are controlled by corporations, AirNodes are owned and operated by the individuals and communities. They deliver wireless coverage where Big Wireless falls short - in rural locations, underserved regions, and congested urban networks.

With an AirNode, anyone can help grow the network. Anyone can own a piece of it. And anyone can earn real rewards by supporting real-world connectivity.

This is infrastructure flipped on its head: local, community-powered, and built to serve people, not profits.

What is an AirNode?

AirNodes are the backbone of World Mobile’s decentralized network. They deliver last-mile wireless coverage, connecting users to voice, text, and data services without relying on traditional mobile towers. Instead of infrastructure controlled by corporations, AirNodes are smaller, community-operated devices that bring connectivity to homes, shops, neighborhoods, and towns.

Each AirNode acts as a local access point, replacing the last-mile connection typically run by Big Wireless. They connect to the broader World Mobile network through the Internode API, forming a hybrid mesh that scales from the ground up.

While each AirNode type varies in range and capability, the mission is the same: replace centralized towers with a distributed network that delivers connectivity where it is needed most.

When a user connects to an AirNode, the Operator processes that activity such as calls, messages, and data while preserving user privacy. In return, Operators earn rewards based on the volume of traffic their AirNode supports.

AirNodes are not owned by World Mobile. Once purchased, they belong to the Operators who deploy them, maintain them, and earn from the value they help create.

Anyone can operate an AirNode remotely from anywhere in the world. If you want to host an AirNode on the ground, or host and operate one locally, you’ll need to be in a World Mobile licensed region. Either way, you can help build the next generation of mobile infrastructure.

AirNode Types:

  • Wi-Fi AirNodes (short range): Covering a radius of up to 150m, they’re ideal for homes, shops, and small, dense neighborhoods.
  • CBRS AirNodes (medium range): Using high-frequency signals, these are perfect for small towns and dense neighborhoods.
  • Band 71 AirNodes (long range): Using low-frequency signals that stretch far, these provide ‘overwatch’ coverage and support other AirNodes in the area.

Click here to explore the AirNode range and find the right one for you.

What do AirNodes do?

AirNodes serve two key functions:

  • Expand coverage: They expand coverage by delivering wireless access, including cellular service and internet connectivity, in areas where traditional infrastructure is limited or unavailable.
  • Earn rewards: They generate income for the individuals, businesses, or communities that host or operate them. Depending on the AirNode model, this can be fixed income or variable rewards based on usage.

AirNodes form the access layer of the World Mobile network and rely on three types of participants:

  • Hosts provide a physical location where the AirNode is installed.
  • Operators manage the AirNode’s performance remotely and earn rewards based on activity.
  • Host-Operators do both, offering a location and managing operations.

Whether you're installing an AirNode in your community or operating one from across the world, you're helping build a fairer, more connected network for everyone.

Get Started

AirNodes can be operated in three ways:

  • By partnering with a Host to deploy your AirNode
  • By operating one remotely through your dashboard
  • By hosting and operating it yourself as a Host-Operator

To Operate Remotely

Models like the Apex, Link, and Spark do not require a physical Host. You can operate them entirely online.

  1. Choose your AirNode using the Explorer.
  1. Activate it through your dashboard. Setup is instant and requires no on-site access.
  1. Start earning. Rewards will appear in your dashboard within 48 hours of deployment. You control when to withdraw your payments.

To Partner with a Host

Some models, like the Portal and Titan, require on-the-ground deployment.

  1. Use the Explorer to find a Host who can deploy and manage the AirNode for you.
  1. Agree on terms, then complete your purchase.
  1. Coordinate with your Host to get your AirNode deployed. We’ll provide full installation guidance, including access to certified installers if needed.
  1. Track your rewards. Earnings begin showing in your dashboard within 48 hours of deployment.

To Host-Operate

If you want to both host and operate your AirNode, follow these steps:

  1. Find a location. Explore available areas on our interactive map.
  1. Reserve your spot. Purchase an AirNode to claim your preferred location. You must own or have access to the property to be eligible.
  1. Deploy your AirNode. Our team will guide you through the setup process, helping you get connected and ready to earn rewards.

For more information on AirNode models and operating options, visit worldmobile.io/airnodes.

Operating an AirNode

Operating a World Mobile AirNode means helping deliver reliable, affordable connectivity. Responsibilities vary slightly depending on whether you're operating remotely or managing an AirNode on-site.

If You're Operating Remotely

As a remote Operator, your primary role is to monitor performance and optimize uptime.

  • Monitor Performance: Use your dashboard to track uptime, user activity, and data throughput. Keeping a close eye on performance helps identify issues early and ensures your AirNode stays active.
  • Support and Reporting: If any performance issues arise, work with the Host or World Mobile support to investigate and resolve them.

You do not need to manage power supply or firmware updates. These are handled by the Host or by World Mobile-certified installers.

If You're Hosting or Host-Operating

If your role includes on-site hosting, additional responsibilities apply:

  • Maintain a Stable Power Supply: Ensure your AirNode has consistent and reliable power to avoid service interruptions.
  • Apply Software and Firmware Updates: Stay current with any updates released for your AirNode. These improve functionality, performance, and security and will be provided by World Mobile upon release.

For remote as well as on-ground operation, consistent attention to performance helps keep the network strong and ensures you're earning from the value you help provide.

Earning from an AirNode

AirNodes offer a new way to earn from mobile connectivity. Depending on the model you choose, rewards may be fixed or performance-based.

  • Spark AirNodes earn a flat monthly reward, regardless of uptime or user activity.
  • Larger models like the Portal and Link earn based on performance. Their rewards scale with user volume and uptime.

You can use the Earnings Calculator to estimate potential returns before purchasing.

Reward Structure

  • Rewards accrue daily and consolidate monthly (for example, rewards from September become claimable at the end of October)
  • Payments are issued within 10 business days of the claim period opening
  • Available in fiat currencies (GBP, USD, EUR) or in USDT
  • When it’s time to claim, you’ll receive step-by-step instructions via email

Insurance and Risk

Every AirNode includes one year of insurance. After the first year, you can extend coverage annually at a rate of 1.5% of the device’s equipment value. You’re also free to use private insurance if you prefer.

If you sell your AirNode, the insurance stays with the device - not the person. As long as the policy terms are followed, the new owner remains protected.