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Richard DeVaul
Mad Scientist, Moonshot Launcher, Founder
Richard DeVaul is the Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of XNET Inc, a company that aims to be the world's first blockchain-powered mobile carrier.12 He has an extensive background in technology innovation and leadership, spanning across several prominent tech companies and research institutions.
Career Highlights
Google and X: DeVaul spent over 7 years at Google, where he held significant roles:
- Director of Rapid Evaluation and Mad Science at X, the moonshot factory
- Innovation Leader at Google
- Co-founder and first project leader of Project Loon, an ambitious attempt to build a decentralized wireless network in the stratosphere12
Apple: Prior to Google, DeVaul worked as a Senior Prototype Scientist at Apple Inc. for about 1.5 years, focusing on investigating and rapidly prototyping new technologies across Apple's product line.2
Academic Background: DeVaul holds a Ph.D. in Media Arts & Sciences from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he worked with Professor Alex "Sandy" Pentland in the Human Dynamics group at the MIT Media Lab.2
XNET Inc
As CEO of XNET, DeVaul is leading the development of a decentralized mobile network that utilizes blockchain technology and crypto incentives. The company aims to revolutionize the mobile network industry by:
- Not owning physical infrastructure, similar to how Uber transformed mobility without owning taxis
- Using blockchain incentives to encourage users to run XNET equipment in exchange for XNET tokens
- Focusing on building high-quality 4G/5G networks in targeted areas with high demand but poor coverage13
Expertise and Interests
DeVaul describes himself as a "Mad Scientist, Moonshot Launcher, and Founder".4 His areas of expertise include:
- AI and blockchain engineering
- Rapid idea evaluation and prototyping
- Innovation leadership
- Mobile and wireless technologies
He is also passionate about addressing climate change and has experience in consumer electronics and wearable technology.12