Meta is set to revolutionize internet connectivity with its new 'W' cable project, which aims to span 40,000 km and connect continents, enhancing access for billions. This initiative comes as India, with over a billion Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp users, becomes a focal point for Meta's investments in AI and data infrastructure.
The 'W' project will require approximately $10 billion in investments, with $2 billion allocated for the cable itself and additional funds for connectivity equipment and AI data centers. This ambitious plan aims to address geopolitical challenges and improve global internet access, particularly in regions like India and Africa.
Scheduled to become operational by 2030, the cable will connect the eastern U.S. to Australia, India, and South Africa, ultimately returning to the western U.S. This expansion reflects a significant shift in internet infrastructure control, as major tech companies increasingly dominate the market, outpacing traditional telecom operators.
The implications of this project extend beyond connectivity; it positions Meta and similar companies to shape global internet policies and infrastructure development, raising essential questions about the balance of power in the digital age.