The Network Builder auction process is divided into three phases: the Discovery Phase, the Release Phase, and the Network Expansion Phase.
Phase One: Discovery Phase (live from 22 December 2025)
Prospective Hex Operators explore the Opportunity Map and save Hexes to their watchlist. Watchlist activity and map engagement act as demand signals that help shape which Hexes are prioritized and released first, including early value tiers and the composition of the first auction batches.
Phase Two: Release Phase (launches in January 2026)
Hexes are released in batched, 48-hour auctions. Early batches reflect Discovery Phase demand signals and network strategy, rather than releasing Hexes in a fixed or random order.
Phase Three: Network Expansion Phase
Auction batches evolve over time based on observed demand, operator behavior, and network needs. Auctions may expand to additional geographies, include a wider range of value tiers, and adjust in frequency as participation grows.
Here’s how live auctions will unfold:
- Auctions take place online through the Network Builder platform
- A registered user with a connected wallet can place bids using WMTx on the Base Network The first bid starts the auction timer for that Hex
- All bids are recorded onchain, so all bidding activity is transparent and visible
- Any user, whether they have registered with a connected wallet or not, can track auctions on the interactive map or list view
- Bidders are notified when there is an update on the status of their Hexes
- When the timer on a Hex ends, the highest bidder receives the Hex NFT
- A Buy Now option is available for each Hex, allowing immediate acquisition at a displayed buyout price
After winning, the Hex Operator completes onboarding (including KYC or KYB) and then progresses through Network Builder levels tracked inside the platform. Rewards, if any, depend on verified work and the applicable rules.