Google took the initiative to improve internet access throughout Africa, and one of the things they came up with is ‘Wi-Fi Balloons’. Large balloons would fly around the rural areas of Africa, providing internet access to those in the designated areas.
The company is now starting test these balloons in California Central Valley. This is like beta testing everything to make sure everything works perfectly, upgrade any necessary hardware and other aspects of the project while things are being tested in Google’s home state. Google wants “to research various approaches for improving the technology, like the power systems (solar panel orientation and batteries), envelope design, and radio configuration.”
Recently, the company has already been testing the service in New Zealand and various parts of Africa. The project is not entirely ready to be deployed until everything has been worked out down to the last detail, such as long-lasting solar panels.
Are you looking forward to balloons flying around providing internet access?
