MobiNode is a Decentralized Physical Infrastructure (DePIN) project developed by NowChain which functions as a growth and user engagement engine for its parent ecosystem. The platform aims to connect Web3 projects with users by combining a mobile validator node application, a task-based rewards system, and staking incentives. [1] [2]
MobiNode is positioned as a key infrastructure layer within the NowChain ecosystem, designed to facilitate community-driven growth and user acquisition for Web3 projects. The project's stated mission is to convert user activity into shared value by creating a system where users are rewarded for their engagement. It provides a mobile application that allows users to convert their devices into validation nodes for the NowChain network, participate in network security, and complete promotional tasks for partner projects. According to the project, its global community consists of over 700,000 members, with more than 450,000 active users online at any given time. [1] [3]
As an entry point into the NowChain ecosystem, MobiNode serves as an onboarding tool for both users and developers. It offers a pathway for collaborating projects to access the broader NowChain network, which includes a grant program to support development. [3]
The legal entity behind the project is Nowchain Inc., a corporation registered in Cheyenne, Wyoming in 2024. The company's founder, CEO, and director is Tony Le. On January 5, 2024, Nowchain Inc. submitted a Form D filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for an exempt offering of securities. At the time of the filing, the offering had not yet commenced, and no funds had been raised. [4] [1]
MobiNode operates as a DePIN layer built on the NowChain blockchain, described by the project as a "Decentralized Engagement Layer." Its architecture is designed to enable mobile devices to participate in network consensus and security through a mobile-first application. [1]
The platform is constructed on NowChain, a blockchain designed to be fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). This compatibility allows developers to deploy smart contracts written in Solidity using common development tools like Remix IDE. Tokens created on the NowChain network adhere to the NRC-20 standard, which is analogous to the ERC-20 standard on Ethereum. MobiNode functions as an application layer that leverages this underlying blockchain for its operations, including its task system, staking contracts, and reward distributions. [3]
The core of NowChain's technical foundation is a consensus mechanism named "Proof of Mobile" (P.o.M.). This method is designed to utilize the extensive presence and movement of mobile devices to secure the network and validate transactions. The P.o.M. model aims to be more energy-efficient and decentralized compared to traditional consensus mechanisms like Proof-of-Work. The MobiNode application is engineered to be resource-efficient, aiming to minimize its impact on a device's battery life and performance while it participates as a validation node. According to the project's whitepaper, the Proof of Mobile mechanism was considered a "work in progress" and had not been fully implemented. [2] [1]
The NowChain architecture emphasizes security through the use of Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC). This cryptographic method was chosen for its ability to provide high levels of security with smaller key sizes than alternatives, making it more computationally efficient for mobile devices. The project's technical documentation also outlines a proposed security model that integrates a device's International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). This system would associate cryptographic keys with a device's unique hardware identifier, adding another layer of security to help prevent unauthorized access. [2]
The primary product is the MobiNode Application, which integrates several functions into a single mobile platform available for both iOS and Android devices. [5]
Within the application, users can access a Self-Custodial Wallet. This wallet is designed exclusively for managing the native $NOW coin of the NowChain blockchain, including sending and receiving tokens. The wallet's self-custodial nature ensures that users' private keys remain on their devices. The application also contains the primary interface for users to participate in network validation, track earnings, and engage with the platform's other features. [1]
MobiNode also offers a Mission Platform as a service for partner projects. This allows external Web3 projects to list tasks as "daily mandatory tasks" for MobiNode users. This structure is intended to ensure high-visibility engagement, as users are required to complete these tasks to earn rewards. [3]
MobiNode includes several features designed to engage users and support the growth of the broader NowChain ecosystem.
Through the MobiNode app, users can allow their mobile devices to become validation nodes on the NowChain network. This feature enables them to contribute to processing transactions and securing the network in exchange for $NOW token rewards. This process is powered by the Proof of Mobile consensus mechanism. [1]
The platform incorporates a system of task-based missions where partner projects can list daily tasks. MobiNode users must complete these tasks to earn rewards from a dedicated pool. This feature is the main mechanism for driving user activity and is intended to provide partner projects with high-visibility engagement and a method for user acquisition. [1] [3]
A staking feature is available for holders of the $NOW token. Users can stake their tokens to earn a yield, with the project stating a potential maximum Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of up to 84%. [1]
The project includes a performance-based affiliate program. This referral system allows users to earn a commission of up to 40% by referring new participants to the platform. [1]
MobiNode facilitates co-branded community events and Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions for its partners. These campaigns are often supported by multi-million $NOW reward pools to help partner projects increase their reach, community engagement, and user retention. [3]
MobiNode is a foundational component of the NowChain ecosystem and is central to its growth strategy. It serves as the primary gateway for onboarding new users into the network and provides Web3 projects with a scalable method for driving user engagement. [1]
Projects that collaborate with MobiNode are granted a direct pathway to apply for the $100M $NOW Grant Program. This program was established by NowChain to provide financial support to developers and innovative projects building on its platform. Integration with MobiNode is presented as the initial step for projects to become eligible for these grants. [3]
MobiNode is designed to serve two main audiences: individual users and Web3 projects.
The information regarding use cases was compiled from analyses of the project's website and technical documentation. [1] [3]
MobiNode does not have its own token; instead, its ecosystem is powered by $NOW, the native coin of the NowChain blockchain. [3]
The source materials suggest that by becoming a validator, users contribute to the network's governance. However, specific details regarding on-chain voting rights or other formal governance protocols associated with holding or staking the $NOW token are not provided. [1] [3]
MobiNode's official materials and announcements list several backers and partners that are part of its ecosystem. The project's official X (formerly Twitter) account was created in October 2024, with various partnership announcements following in 2025. [5]
The listed backers and partners were sourced from the project's promotional materials and social media channels. [1] [5]