Meta's $10 Billion Subsea Cable to Revolutionize Global Connectivity, AI Development
November 29, 2024This investment is also motivated by Meta's need for dedicated internet capacity and the importance of revenue generation outside North America.
Details regarding the cable's expected route and capacity are set to be unveiled in early 2025.
The significance of this project is underscored by the increasing scrutiny on internet infrastructure and the need for exclusive ownership to ensure security and efficiency.
India has been identified as a crucial landing point for the cable, driven by its growing user base and potential for data center development, particularly in relation to AI initiatives.
Meta's strategy to control its internet infrastructure from start to finish is seen as a visionary move, especially in light of the growing demand for internet services and AI advancements.
There is speculation that the cable's termination in India may facilitate the development of AI infrastructure, leveraging the country's lower operational costs.
While the construction timeline is uncertain and expected to take between five to ten years, this long-term strategy positions Meta to gain greater control over its connectivity.
Referred to as 'W', this subsea cable aims to serve as a dedicated pipeline for Meta's digital platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Threads.
Meta is embarking on an ambitious project to construct a 40,000-kilometer fiber-optic subsea cable, with an estimated cost exceeding $10 billion, aimed at connecting the East Coast of the U.S. to South Africa, India, and Australia.
This strategic route is designed to avoid regions of geopolitical tension, reflecting the company's response to rising global conflicts.
The initiative represents a significant shift in the ownership dynamics of subsea cables, moving from traditional telecom consortiums to big tech companies like Meta.
Ultimately, the subsea cable is expected to enhance connectivity for the involved regions, potentially boosting their economies and improving internet access.
Summary based on 14 sources
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Sources
The Verge • Nov 29, 2024
Meta is building the ‘mother of all’ subsea cablesTechCrunch • Nov 29, 2024
Meta plans to build a $10B subsea cable spanning the world, sources say | TechCrunchBusiness Insider • Nov 29, 2024
Meta is reportedly building a $10 billion underwater cable that will circle the globeYahoo Finance • Nov 29, 2024
Meta's $10 Billion Internet Power Play: The Subsea Cable That Changes Everything