Celo is a blockchain platform that aims to increase cryptocurrency adoption among smartphone users by making financial tools accessible to anyone with a mobile phone. It focuses on speeding up transactions and reducing costs, making it particularly suitable for mobile users and transactions in emerging markets​

Celo is distinct because it uses stable-value tokens pegged to fiat currencies to minimize volatility and is built to be mobile-first, allowing users to use their phone number as their wallet address. This approach simplifies transactions and integrates blockchain technology into everyday mobile use.

Celo’s blockchain features include sub-cent transaction fees, the ability to pay fees with stablecoins, fast transaction speeds with 5-second block times, and a rich ecosystem of over 1,000 decentralized applications (dApps). It also emphasizes carbon-negative operations and a decentralized governance system where CELO token holders can vote on changes to the network​

Celo uses a formal on-chain governance mechanism to manage and upgrade its protocol. CELO holders can participate in network consensus, pay for on-chain transactions, and vote on governance decisions. This makes it a highly community-driven platform where changes are decided by its users