Google is investing $1 billion in a fleet of satellites with the aim of bringing the Internet to parts of the developing world that don't have it yet, as part of its Project Loon initiative. The project will involve the use of around 180 satellites which will sit relatively low in the sky. The project will be overseen by satellite communications expert Greg Wyler.
The initiative will help bring hundreds of millions of people who don't have the Internet online, helping to accelerate the development of their communities. Additionally, it will help Google position itself as an entry point to the online world in massive untapped markets of the developing world.
While the project was initially said to involve large Internet-beaming balloons, it looks like Google has gone a higher-tech route.
What's Driving This Trend
- Satellite Internet Services
- Opportunity for companies to provide satellite internet services to regions without access.
- Connectivity Expansion
- Opportunity for businesses to expand internet connectivity to untapped markets and accelerate community development.
- Emerging Markets Access
- Opportunity for companies to access and tap into the massive market potential of developing regions.
Who This Affects Most
- Telecommunications
- Opportunity for telecommunications companies to provide satellite internet services.
- Technology
- Opportunity for technology companies to develop and implement innovative solutions to expand internet connectivity.
- E-commerce
- Opportunity for e-commerce companies to enter and serve untapped markets of the developing world.
