Facebook as many of us know it, has good intentions – To connect the world!
As part of their efforts, they created Internet.org and partnered with mobile operators and government in various countries to offer free access to basic internet services. A few of those who’ve benefited from it have expressed their gratitude on Facebook.
Well, if you’ve been following the news, you’re probably aware that Facebook’s ‘Free Basics’ data system, was banned in India due to issues related to net neutrality and unequal treatment of network data. ( More about why Free Basics was banned in India)
In his response, Zuckerberg expressed his optimistic goals about connecting millions in Indian who have no access to the internet and help lift them out of poverty, create jobs and spread education opportunities.
As part of their further progress, Facebook recently announced their latest projects. Probably one of their most ambitious projects –Telecom Infra Project (TIP) to ‘reimagine traditional approaches to building and deploying telecom network infrastructure.’
According to Jay Parikh, Global Head of Engineering and Infrastructure – Facebook,
“TIP is bringing together operators, infrastructure providers, system integrators, and other industry players to work together to develop new technologies and rethink approaches to deploying network architecture that leverage these new advances in the technology and an open approach to development”
Facebook is launching TIP with several other members such as Intel, Nokia, Deutsche Telekom, SK Telecom, Equinix, Globe- (See who else is participating) Pilot projects are underway in the Philippines and remote environments of the Scottish Highlands. Read all about the the TIP here
The social network giant is involved in more notable projects to ensure connectivity and access to internet. In it’s efforts to bring Internet to more people around the globe, Facebook also partnered with French satellite company Eutelsat Communications to enable Internet access for developing markets.
Another massive project is the Aquila drone (part of the internet.org). According to Venturebeat, ‘it’s a solar-powered aircraft that can create a 50-kilometer communications radius for up to 90 days.Signals will be received by small towers and dishes on the ground that will convert it into a Wi-Fi or LTE network people can connect to using their mobile device.’
Check out Facebook’s connectivity lab
