Connecting Communities via PubliFi
Imagine an app that keeps you connected wherever you go. Publifi lets users share public Wi-Fi passwords, creating a seamless roaming network. With an interactive map to find nearby networks, a built-in browser for internet access, and the option to watch ads offline to unlock connectivity, Publifi makes staying online simple and convenient. It’s not just an app—it’s a smarter way to stay connected.
Project Overview
Through the Publifi app, users can access public Wi-Fi networks by sharing their passwords, creating a roaming network to share connectivity. An interactive map in the app shows nearby shared networks marked with green dots. The app downloads a password and location database, helping users find Wi-Fi even when they don’t have an internet connection. To access a shared Wi-Fi network, users must watch an advertisement. The best part is users can watch the ad even without an internet connection, and the ad is not stored locally, ensuring privacy and a seamless experience.
The app also includes a browser, but users can only browse the internet through the app. After watching an advertisement and earning a balance, users can access general internet services.
Additionally, we managed Wi-Fi by installing our own customized Wi-fi hardware in shops, where the shopkeepers sold internet access. We called these shopkeepers ‘Digital Bepari’. The locations of these “Digital Bepari” shops were also displayed in the Publifi app, marked as yellow dots, making it easy for users to find places to connect.
The Challenges
- Authentication Complexity Across Android Versions
- Efficient Database Loading
- Seamless Offline Data Storage
- Memory Optimization
Approach
The Publifi App was built using the combination of the following technical stacks:
- Python Django Backend
- Native Android(Java/Kotlin)
- Wifi Auth Types
- WPA2-PSK
- WPA2-EAP, or Hotspot 2.0, with TLS
- ESS Hotspot 1.0
Process Overview
- Resolving Authentication Issues Across Android Versions: The difference between pre-Android 9 and post-Android 9 authentication was solved by creating multiple authentication modules, ensuring the availability in every android handset.
- Optimizing Database Loading: We implemented a background data loading mechanism that uses asynchronous processing to minimize device impact while providing instant updates.
- Seamless Offline Data Storage: To maintain phone performance, we used lightweight, encrypted database formats to ensure efficient offline access without slowing down the device.
- Managing Map and Memory Optimization: Used efficient loading techniques to load map segments only when required. Implemented caching mechanisms to reduce the need for repeated downloads. Compressed high-resolution maps to balance quality and size.
Technical Innovations
- Cross-Version Authentication: Solved Android authentication discrepancies using tailored approaches for each version.
- Efficient Offline Storage: Optimized data compression for seamless offline usage without performance degradation.
- Memory-Friendly Map Handling: Advanced caching and lazy-loading mechanisms to enhance the user experience.
The PubliFi Project redefines connectivity by bridging the digital divide with innovative, community-driven solutions. Empower your community with smarter, more affordable internet access. Contact us today or Download the PubliFi App to experience the future of connectivity!
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See the entire designing process, color palette and typography research info in our Behance.