> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.xyo.network/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.xyo.network/about-xyo/xyo-101/the-xyo-ecosystem/what-is-depin.md). # What is DePIN? And why does it matter? DePIN stands for Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network. Instead of a few corporations owning things like cell towers or data centers, DePIN lets anyone join in. People can run devices, share data, or connect to networks and earn rewards for it. ### What Makes it Different? Traditional infrastructure is centralized: companies build it, maintain it, and capture all the value. DePIN flips that model. It makes infrastructure: * **Open:** anyone can join with a phone or device * **Resilient:** no single point of failure * **Fair:** contributors earn value for their part ### How Does It Work? Every DePIN project has three layers: 1. Devices or nodes doing useful work 2. A network that collects and validates the work 3. A system that records contributions and distributes rewards ### The XYO Approach XYO has been running a DePIN since 2018. More than 10 million nodes contribute through the COIN App, sending real-world data like timestamps, observations, and location relationships. That data is verified with Proof of Location and Proof of Origin, then secured on XYO Layer One, a blockchain built for data. Contributors earn $XYO for their participation, while $XL1 powers activity on-chain. ### How DePIN Impacts Industries DePIN builds trusted, global systems that anyone can help run. From mapping and logistics to IoT, public data, and asset tracking, XYO shows how a DePIN can connect the digital and physical worlds at scale. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://docs.xyo.network/about-xyo/xyo-101/the-xyo-ecosystem/what-is-depin.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.