Introduction

Want to make some extra money without doing too much? In 2026, there are some cool apps that use something called DePIN, which stands for Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks. These apps let you earn passive income by sharing resources you already have, like your internet, storage space, or even data from your car. Let’s look at some of the best DePIN apps for earning passive income this year.

What is DePIN?

DePIN is a new way of building and managing physical infrastructure using blockchain technology. Instead of big companies controlling everything, DePINs allow regular people to contribute resources and get rewarded for it. This creates a more fair and open system. Think of it like a shared economy for things like internet, storage, and data.

Top DePIN Apps for Passive Income in 2026

Here are some of the best DePIN apps that can help you earn passive income in 2026:

1. Grass: Sharing Your Internet

   Grass lets you get paid for your unused internet. Many people have internet bandwidth they don’t use. Grass allows you to share this bandwidth and earn money. It’s like renting out your extra internet. This project is all about Grass: Harvesting Idle Bandwidth Gold and represents a Grass: Bandwidth Sharing Revolution. You can also think of it as a way to Grass: Monetize Bandwidth for AI.

2. Filecoin: Renting Out Storage Space

   Filecoin is a decentralized storage network. You can rent out your extra storage space on your computer and earn Filecoin tokens. It’s like Airbnb, but for data storage. Filecoin: Decentralized Storage for Everyone makes it easy to participate in the Filecoin: Decentralized Storage Revolution. If you have unused hard drive space, this is a great way to earn some passive income. You are helping to provide Filecoin: Decentralized Data Storage.

3. Hivemapper: Mapping the World

   Hivemapper is a decentralized mapping network. You can earn money by driving around and collecting map data using a dashcam. The more you drive, the more you earn. Hivemapper: Mapping the World, Rewarding Contributors. Before you get started, you might want to check out Hivemapper Review 2026: Legit or Scam? to see what people are saying.

4. DIMO: Sharing Car Data

   DIMO allows you to earn money by sharing data from your car. This data helps improve transportation and urban planning. If you own a car, DIMO: Mapping the Connected Car is a simple way to earn passive income. See what others think in DIMO Review 2026: Legit or Scam?. This is an example of DIMO: Data Driven Mobility.

5. io.net: Sharing GPU Power

   io.net is a decentralized GPU cloud. You can rent out your GPU (graphics processing unit) and earn money. This is useful for people who have powerful computers with good graphics cards. This project represents io.net: Decentralized GPU Power and io.net: Decentralized GPU Compute Network. Check out io.net Review: The DePIN Giant for AI GPU Compute before diving in.

6. Arweave: Storing Data Permanently

   Arweave is a decentralized data storage network that focuses on permanent storage. Users can get paid for providing storage capacity, ensuring data remains accessible forever. This aligns with Arweave: Decentralized Data Permanence and promotes Arweave: Decentralized Data Storage.

7. Helium Mobile: Sharing Connectivity

   Helium Mobile lets you earn rewards by providing wireless coverage. You can participate in Helium Mobile: Connectivity Rewards and contribute to the Helium Mobile: Decentralized Wireless Network. This builds upon the Helium Network: Decentralized Wireless Connectivity in 2026.

8. WiFi Map: Sharing Wi-Fi

   WiFi Map is a community driven app that lets users share Wi-Fi passwords and earn rewards. You can Share and Earn by contributing to the network. Consider projects like Roam: Earn Crypto Sharing Your Wi-Fi in 2026.

9. Storj: Decentralized Cloud Storage

   Storj is another decentralized cloud storage network. Similar to Filecoin, you can rent out your unused storage space and earn crypto. Storj: A Decentralized Cloud Storage Network allows anyone to participate in the decentralized storage economy.

How Much Can You Earn?

The amount you can earn depends on several factors, including:

• The app you use: Some apps pay more than others.
• The resources you share: The more resources you share (like storage space or internet bandwidth), the more you can earn.
• Market demand: The demand for the resources you’re sharing affects the price.

Some users have reported earning a few dollars a month, while others earn hundreds or even thousands. It’s important to do your research and set realistic expectations.

Earning Proof and Community Insights

To see how much people are really earning, it’s a good idea to check out online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to these DePIN projects. Many users share their experiences and provide proof of earnings. Look for screenshots of wallets, transaction histories, and discussions about the pros and cons of each platform. Also, remember that earnings can change over time due to network growth, token price fluctuations, and changes in demand.

Remember to always do your own research and consider the risks before investing time and resources into any DePIN project.

Getting Started with DePIN

Here are the general steps to get started with DePIN apps:

1. Research: Learn about different DePIN projects and choose the ones that fit your resources and interests. Check out DePIN Projects List for a comprehensive overview.
2. Set up: Download and install the app or software required by the DePIN project.
3. Share resources: Configure the app to share your resources, such as internet bandwidth, storage space, or car data.
4. Earn rewards: Start earning passive income as people use your shared resources.
5. Monitor: Keep an eye on your earnings and adjust your settings as needed.

Risks and Considerations

While DePIN apps offer a great way to earn passive income, there are some risks to consider:

• Volatility: The value of the tokens you earn can fluctuate.
• Technical issues: There may be technical issues with the apps or networks.
• Security: There’s always a risk of security breaches or hacks.

It’s important to do your research and understand the risks before investing time and resources into any DePIN project.

Conclusion

DePIN apps are an exciting way to earn passive income by sharing resources you already have. In 2026, there are several promising DePIN projects to choose from, including Grass, Filecoin, Hivemapper, DIMO, and io.net. By participating in these networks, you can contribute to a more decentralized and open infrastructure while earning some extra money. Remember to do your research, manage your risks, and enjoy the benefits of the DePIN revolution. Consider reading Next-Gen Crypto Mining: A Strategic Guide to learn more.