Facebook, along with several other companies, is working on bringing the Internet to the entire planet. The social network has now announced an ambitious plan to use satellites to provide free Internet access to Africa. This initiative is part of Facebook’s broader mission to connect the world and bridge the digital divide.
The company has partnered with French satellite company Eutelsat Communications to deliver free Internet to 14 countries in Africa. This collaboration aims to leverage satellite technology to reach remote and underserved areas where traditional Internet infrastructure is lacking.
Eutelsat Communications (NYSE Euronext Paris: ETL) and Facebook today announce they are partnering on a new initiative that will leverage satellite technologies to get more Africans online. Under a multi-year agreement with Spacecom, the two companies will utilise the entire broadband payload on the future AMOS-6 satellite and will build a dedicated system comprising satellite capacity, gateways and terminals. In providing reach to large parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, Eutelsat and Facebook will each be equipped to pursue their ambition to accelerate data connectivity for the many users deprived of the economic and social benefits of the Internet.
Expanding Internet Access in Africa
The two companies plan to launch this new Internet service in the second half of next year. The service will cover parts of western, eastern, and southern Africa. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the region, where Internet penetration rates are still relatively low compared to other parts of the world. By providing free Internet access, Facebook and Eutelsat aim to empower communities with the tools and resources needed for economic and social development.
The AMOS-6 satellite, which will be used for this project, is equipped with advanced technology to ensure reliable and high-speed Internet connectivity. The satellite will provide coverage to remote and rural areas that are currently underserved by traditional Internet service providers. This initiative is part of Facebook’s Internet.org project, which aims to bring affordable Internet access to the two-thirds of the world that are not yet connected.
The Broader Impact of Satellite Internet
Satellite Internet has the potential to revolutionize connectivity in remote and underserved regions. Unlike traditional Internet infrastructure, which requires extensive ground-based networks, satellite Internet can provide coverage to vast areas with minimal physical infrastructure. This makes it an ideal solution for regions with challenging geography or limited resources.
In addition to providing Internet access, this initiative is expected to have a positive impact on various sectors, including education, healthcare, and agriculture. For example, students in remote areas will have access to online educational resources, healthcare providers can offer telemedicine services, and farmers can access real-time market information and weather forecasts.
Moreover, increased Internet connectivity can drive economic growth by enabling small businesses to reach new markets and customers. It can also foster innovation and entrepreneurship by providing access to information and digital tools.
Facebook and Eutelsat’s partnership is a significant step towards achieving global Internet connectivity. By leveraging satellite technology, they are addressing one of the biggest challenges in bridging the digital divide. This initiative is not only about providing Internet access but also about creating opportunities for millions of people to improve their lives and contribute to their communities.
You can find out more details about this initiative at the link below.
Source, Gizmodo
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