Google X Project Provides Internet Access Using Balloons
Javier Correas — June 18, 2013 — Tech
References: google
Google X has unveiled more information about its latest project called 'Project Loon,' which aims to provide Internet Access with a speed equivalent to the one offered by 3G networks through a balloon -- yes, an actual balloon. After the first rumors, the company has launched the website for the project. The first tests will be run in New Zealand.
The idea behind it for Google is to keep a legion of balloons floating freely, really high in the atmosphere around the world, creating a network of accessible 3G hotspots. To achieve that goal and predict the balloons' flight paths, the engineers of Google X labs are working hard on algorithms and lots of computing, using winds provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as an information source.
They have already 50 testers and an initial network of 30 balloons. The idea is that using some special antennas, users will be able to connect if the balloons are in a 20km radius from them. We will see if Google succeeds in providing Internet access or in making it cheaper at least for those two thirds of the Earth's population who still have no Internet access.
The idea behind it for Google is to keep a legion of balloons floating freely, really high in the atmosphere around the world, creating a network of accessible 3G hotspots. To achieve that goal and predict the balloons' flight paths, the engineers of Google X labs are working hard on algorithms and lots of computing, using winds provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as an information source.
They have already 50 testers and an initial network of 30 balloons. The idea is that using some special antennas, users will be able to connect if the balloons are in a 20km radius from them. We will see if Google succeeds in providing Internet access or in making it cheaper at least for those two thirds of the Earth's population who still have no Internet access.
Trend Themes
1. Balloon-based Internet - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing affordable and scalable technologies to provide Internet access to underserved populations using balloons.
2. Predictive Flight Path Algorithms - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating advanced algorithms to accurately predict and control the flight paths of floating balloons, enabling efficient global Internet coverage.
3. Accessible 3G Hotspots - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing antenna technology to connect users to a network of 3G hotspots provided by floating balloons, expanding connectivity in remote areas.
Industry Implications
1. Telecommunications - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Partnering with Google X to explore innovative solutions for expanding Internet access using balloon-based technology.
2. Aerospace - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborating with Google X to develop advanced balloon technology for reliable and sustainable flight paths in providing global Internet coverage.
3. Data Analysis - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Working with Google X to enhance algorithms and data analytics for predicting the flight paths of balloons and optimizing Internet connectivity.
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