As emerging companies start to create a bigger presence online, some of the bigger names in technology are looking for any possible way to prepare for those customers. Google and Facebook are no exceptions to this rule. The two companies have been broadening their horizons for a while now. Most recently, the two are facing off in the realm of drones. These are not just any drones, but solar-powered drones that may have the capability of delivering 5G internet across the world.
INSIDE GOOGLE’S NEW TECHNOLOGY
The appropriately named “Project Skybender” is Google’s latest ploy to bring lightning-fast, 5G internet to the world below. The secret behind this wonderful possibility lies within millimetre-wave radio transmissions. This technology allows larger amounts of data to be transmitted at a faster rate. Just how had much more data? Google states that gigabits per second will be transmitted. That’s something around forty times faster than 4G LTE today. The one downside of this technology is its short range. Fortunately, Google is looking for ways to improve upon this now.
FACEBOOK TO USE DRONE TECHNOLOGY
In an effort to compete with Google, Facebook has implemented their own use for drones. This past summer, Facebook announced their high altitude, solar powered drone. Due to test later this year, the drone dubbed “Aquilla” is part of the Facebook-backed technology, Internet.org. The plan is to help provide internet access to the roughly 43% of the world without it. This, of course, is no easy task, which is why we are seeing such creative formats of data delivery. Aquilla, with the weight of a car and the wingspan of a Boeing 737 can reach altitudes of around 60,000-90,000 feet. With the ability to fly three months without landing, Facebook can strategically rotate it’s drones to ensure a seamless transition. Much like Google’s “Project Skybender”, Aquilla has shown to transmit gigabits of data per second.
OTHERS TO JOIN THE RACE
Google and Facebook aren’t the only two attempting to bring the internet to the masses. Fierce competition from other leaders in the industry indicates this achievement is something everyone wants in on. Beyond our atmosphere, organizations such as OneWeb and SpaceX have reported their intent on creating satellite systems that would provide global high-speed data networks.
