Google And Chile to Build an Underwater Fiber Optic Cable
In an unprecedented move, the Chilean government and Google have announced plans to construct a 14,800-kilometer subsea fiber optic cable called Humboldt cable . The Humboldt project is a cable that will directly connect Asia, Oceania, and South America. It will connect Sydney, Australia, to Valparaiso, Chile. The Humboldt cable, which has a capacity of 144 terabytes per second, is well-positioned to contribute significantly to regional development by giving isolated and underserved areas access to high-speed internet.
With a capacity of 144 terabytes per second, the cable is poised to play a crucial role in regional development by providing high-speed internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas. This digital infrastructure is expected to facilitate access to essential online services like telemedicine and education, fostering economic growth through enhanced e-commerce, increased investments, and support for the digital economy.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced the agreement with Google during a press conference, highlighting the significance of the Humboldt cable in consolidating Chile’s position as a digital hub in South America. The $55 million project is scheduled to commence construction in 2025, with an estimated completion time of one year. The Humboldt cable’s operational lifespan is projected to be 25 years.
President Boric emphasized the transformative impact of the cable, stating that it would create new opportunities for industries, generate employment, and improve living conditions for thousands of people. Karan Bhatia, Google’s Global Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy, described the cable as a “trade route of the 21st century” that would establish a physical connection with Asia.
The U.S. State Department welcomed the initiative, recognizing its potential to accelerate digital connectivity and integrate South America and Pacific Island countries into the global economy.
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