Government-enforced Internet shutdowns are plausible and some countries have taken such measures in the past. Last year, there were a total of "122 major national and regional blackouts." Yet, the need for people to stay informed even during such times is an important one. To answer this necessity, students from the Royal College of Art and Imperial College in London joined forces to develop the 'Fallback' concept.
Essentially, this is a portable satellite modem that can help users access news amid an Internet shutdown. Consumers are prompted to pre-select the publications of interest and during a black-out period, they can access news sources whose output is "encrypted and transmitted to them via satellite." All one needs is a Portable receiver and a wi-fi-enabled device.
Satellite-Enabled News Services
Fallback Helps During Government-Enforced Internet Shutdowns
Trend Themes
1. Portable Satellite Modems - The 'Fallback' concept showcases the potential for portable satellite modems to provide access to news during government-enforced Internet shutdowns.
2. Internet Blackout Solutions - The development of the 'Fallback' concept highlights the need for innovative solutions to enable individuals to stay informed during times of Internet shutdowns.
3. Encrypted Satellite Transmission - The use of encrypted satellite transmission in the 'Fallback' concept showcases the potential for secure and reliable news access during disrupted internet connectivity.
Industry Implications
1. Communication Devices - The rise of portable satellite modems presents a disruptive innovation opportunity in the communication devices industry, particularly in providing alternative internet access during blackout periods.
2. Media & Journalism - The development of satellite-enabled news services like 'Fallback' creates opportunities for disruptive innovation in the media and journalism industry, by offering reliable news access even in situations of government-enforced internet shutdowns.
3. Technology & Software - The integration of encrypted satellite transmission in technologies like the 'Fallback' concept opens up disruptive innovation opportunities in the technology and software industry, specifically in providing secure and resilient connectivity solutions.