The Infrastructure Shift: Why DePINs Matter in Web3’s Next Wave

What if your smartphone powered a global network, your home Wi-Fi strengthened worldwide connectivity, or your gaming console revolutionized cloud computing? This isn’t a distant dream—it’s the vision of Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePINs), a concept explored earlier this month at Bangkok’s ABC Conclave and Devcon SEA.

For one week, Bangkok became the heartbeat of Web3 innovation, hosting transformative discussions about how DePINs could reshape the way we build and govern infrastructure. As moderator of the DePIN panel, I had the privilege of sharing the stage with industry leaders: Keith Dawson of Qualoo, Amar Bedi of Tashi Protocol, Mark Rydon of Aethir, and Web3 veteran Coach K. Together, we explored how decentralized systems are paving the way for more efficient, equitable, and sustainable networks.

What Are DePINs?

DePINs represent a groundbreaking approach to infrastructure. Instead of relying on centralized entities to manage resources like data centers, EV charging stations, or supply chains, DePINs leverage decentralized frameworks to distribute ownership and control.

“DePINs let regular people own and contribute to networks” explained Keith Dawson, CEO of Qualoo. “Instead of relying on centralized giants, we’re building systems where everyone can participate and benefit.”

Amar Bedi, CEO of Tashi Protocol, added, “We’re turning inefficiencies, like unused compute power, into opportunities. It’s about cutting out the middleman and giving power back to the people.”

Imagine a system where idle GPUs power cloud computing, home Wi-Fi strengthens global internet connections, and smartphones earn passive income by contributing bandwidth. DePINs make this possible, blending blockchain technology with physical assets to create scalable, tokenized, and self-governing systems.

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A Panel Highlight: DePINs in Action

The panel was a showcase of how DePINs are already solving real-world problems:

Keith Dawson (Qualoo): Shared how Qualoo’s real-time internet mapping uncovers problems that traditional monitoring often misses, like inefficient data routing. By focusing on real user experiences, it helps prevent outages, boost performance, and hold providers accountable, especially in underserved regions.

Amar Bedi (Tashi Protocol): Discussed how decentralized gaming networks are reducing latency and costs for gamers in rural areas, giving them the same competitive edge as urban players.

Mark Rydon (Aethir): Highlighted how decentralized GPUs are enabling AI and cloud gaming startups in emerging markets like Vietnam and India to thrive.

Coach K: Emphasized how DePINs empower everyday devices to contribute to global infrastructure, turning inefficiencies into opportunities.

Coach K framed it beautifully: "DePINs aren’t just about technology—they’re about creating opportunity from what’s already there. We’re building networks for people, by people.”

The discussion also touched on broader implications, such as governance, scalability, and trust. Amar noted, “Centralized providers like AWS operate at just 30-50% capacity. DePINs eliminate waste, making them inherently more sustainable.”

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Why Bangkok?

Bangkok wasn’t just a venue—it was a symbol of decentralization. The city’s energy, resilience, and collaborative spirit mirrored the ethos of Web3 and DePINs.

“Bangkok is more than a location—it’s a metaphor for decentralization,” Amar observed. “It’s proof that innovation thrives when people come together to build solutions for everyone.”

From its vibrant streets to its forward-thinking tech scene, Bangkok exemplified why Southeast Asia is becoming a hub for blockchain and decentralized innovation. The regions' unique challenges—such as uneven connectivity and high resource costs—make it a prime testing ground for DePIN technologies.

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The Blockchain Advantage

A key enabler of DePINs is blockchain technology. By facilitating trustless transactions and automating complex processes, blockchain removes many of the barriers traditional systems face.

“Blockchain does something traditional systems can’t,” Keith explained. “It tracks contributions, ensures transparency, and automates payments through smart contracts. That’s critical for scaling a decentralized network.”

Mark added, “With blockchain, you don’t need paper contracts or face-to-face trust. Smart contracts automatically verify work and pay contributors, removing logistical barriers.”

This transparency not only simplifies processes but also empowers users. “With DePINs, you know exactly what you’re being charged for” Coach K said. “You can even choose to sell your data or keep it private—it’s all up to you.”

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Challenges and Opportunities

While DePINs are poised to revolutionize infrastructure, they aren’t without challenges:

Governance: Scaling requires robust governance models to ensure fairness and accountability. The panel discussed how decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) could offer scalable solutions.

Regulation: Governments must create frameworks that encourage innovation while protecting participants. Amar emphasized the need for collaboration between regulators and innovators.

Adoption: Simplifying interfaces and reducing user friction is essential for mass adoption. Mark predicted, “We’re on the brink of a post-complexity era. AI is making blockchain systems more intuitive, bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3.”

Despite these hurdles, the potential for DePINs is enormous. 

Keith shared how Qualoo’s network is dynamically scaling to meet demand in underserved regions, while Amar pointed out that gaming could be the “gateway” to broader adoption, as it combines immediate utility with widespread appeal.

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Imagine the Future

Picture a world where:

Internet outages become a thing of the past, as decentralized networks provide seamless backups.

Gamers in rural areas play with zero lag on local nodes.

Your unused bandwidth or computing power earns you money while strengthening global infrastructure.

“DePINs are flipping the script” Amar said. “They’re proving that blockchain and Web3 aren’t just efficient—they’re more sustainable and inclusive by design.”

Be Part of the DePIN Movement

DePINs aren’t just about improving systems—they’re about reclaiming control. They decentralize power, create wealth, and build networks that serve everyone—not just corporations.

Here’s how you can get involved:

Explore Qualoo to learn how they’re using DePINs to map the internet in real-time.

Discover Tashi Protocol and its decentralized gaming solutions.

Check out Aethir to see how decentralized GPUs are transforming AI and cloud gaming.

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“Don’t just watch decentralization happen—be part of it” Coach K urged. “The future isn’t just decentralized—it’s already under construction.”

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Why This Matters

DePINs are more than a technological innovation—they’re a movement toward a fairer, more resilient infrastructure. By leveraging blockchain, decentralization, and community-driven contributions, they offer a practical solution to many of the inefficiencies in today’s systems.

Reflecting on the panel at the ABC Conclave, it’s clear that we’re standing at the edge of a new era—one where control isn’t centralized, but distributed among individuals. Whether you’re a gamer, a developer, or someone passionate about equity in tech, there’s a place for you in this decentralized revolution.

As Keith said, “This isn’t just about building better systems—it’s about building a better future.”

Stay tuned for more as Qualoo continues to shape the way we connect globally.

Make sure to follow Qualoo on Twitter and join our Discord and Telegram. 

Be one of the first to claim your spot on our mobile app and fixed node waitlist
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And head over to DePin Hub where you can now vote for Qualoo to remain on top of the “User favorites” leaderboard. 

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We hope you enjoyed the article. Make sure to follow Qualoo on Twitter and join our Discord and Telegram.