What is Pocket Network (POKT)?

What Is Pocket Network (POKT)?

Pocket Network is a decentralized infrastructure protocol designed to connect blockchain applications with a global pool of independent node operators. It eliminates reliance on centralized RPC providers by offering a trustless, censorship-resistant method for accessing blockchain data. The network operates on the principle that applications should have reliable, scalable, and permissionless access to information stored on various blockchains.

Launched with the vision of creating a “Web3 backbone,” Pocket Network serves as a bridge between decentralized applications (dApps) and the blockchains they need to interact with. Rather than routing requests through a single service provider, the protocol distributes them across multiple independent nodes, reducing downtime risk and single points of failure.

Over time, Pocket Network has evolved through key upgrades, most notably the upcoming Shannon Upgrade, which introduces modular architecture, refined tokenomics, and an expanded set of roles within the ecosystem. These changes aim to improve scalability, efficiency, and the economic sustainability of the protocol.

How Pocket Network Works

At its core, Pocket Network acts as a decentralized Remote Procedure Call (RPC) relay system. Developers or dApps stake POKT tokens to gain access to the network’s infrastructure. When an application sends a request for blockchain data, that request is routed to a pool of servicers—node operators responsible for fulfilling requests. In return, servicers receive POKT rewards for their participation.

The protocol currently operates under the Morse Protocol, which uses an inflationary model to reward node operators and secure the network. However, the Shannon Upgrade introduces a more modular design with specialized actor roles—such as Validators, Fishermen, and Block Producers—to enhance scalability and security. It also shifts toward a fee-based rewards model, reducing inflation while encouraging sustainable growth.

Pocket Network supports multiple blockchains and is protocol-agnostic, allowing developers to build cross-chain applications without managing separate infrastructure. Its decentralized nature helps protect against outages, censorship, and service manipulation, making it attractive to projects that prioritize reliability and decentralization.

What Is POKT Token?

POKT is the native utility token of Pocket Network. It powers all economic activity within the protocol and incentivizes node participation. Applications stake POKT to send requests through the network, while node operators stake POKT to become eligible to serve those requests and earn rewards.

POKT has multiple on-chain representations for cross-chain compatibility:

• USDPOKT – A USD-pegged stable representation of POKT, useful in DeFi and for price stability.

• Wrapped POKT (wPOKT) – An ERC-20 tokenized version of POKT for use on EVM-compatible blockchains.

Under the current Morse economics, POKT issuance is inflationary to incentivize growth. The Shannon Upgrade proposes shifting to a model where rewards come primarily from fees, reducing long-term inflation. This new system would redistribute protocol revenue to stakers, improving sustainability and aligning incentives between developers, node operators, and token holders.

Should You Invest in Pocket Network?

Potential investors may view Pocket Network as a project addressing a critical need in blockchain infrastructure—decentralized, reliable RPC access. However, as with any cryptocurrency investment, factors such as tokenomics changes, network adoption, governance decisions, and broader market conditions can significantly affect outcomes. Independent research and risk assessment are essential before making investment decisions.

Conclusion

Pocket Network offers a decentralized solution for blockchain data access, connecting applications to a global network of independent nodes. Through its token-driven incentive model, multi-chain support, and upcoming Shannon Upgrade, the protocol seeks to improve scalability, security, and economic sustainability. Whether as a tool for developers or an opportunity for network participation, Pocket Network represents a significant effort to build the infrastructure supporting the next phase of Web3 growth.