Taara, a project within X, Alphabet’s moonshot factory, aims to provide internet access to the 2.6 billion people worldwide who currently lack it. Using beams of light to transmit data between small terminals, Taara offers an alternative to traditional fiber optic cables in areas where installing ground-based systems is challenging. These beams can reach over 20 kilometers and deliver speeds of up to 20 gigabits per second. The technology has been implemented in 13 countries, including India, Kenya, Fiji, and the U.S., with recent success in Ghana where 20,000 new users and 320 businesses have come online.
Mahesh Krishnaswamy, the general manager of the Taara project, describes the technology as similar to fiber optic cables, but without the need to physically install cables underground. This makes it a more flexible and accessible option for providing internet access in remote or difficult-to-reach locations. The technology has been deployed in various settings, from rural areas in the U.S. to events like Coachella, demonstrating its versatility and potential for expanding connectivity globally. The success of Taara in Ghana highlights the impact it can have on communities by enabling individuals and businesses to access the internet and participate in the digital economy.
By leveraging beams of light to transmit data, Taara offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for expanding internet access to underserved populations. The technology’s ability to deliver high-speed connectivity over long distances makes it a valuable tool for bridging the digital divide and empowering communities to thrive in the digital age. With 20,000 new users and 320 businesses coming online in Ghana thanks to Taara, the project is making significant strides towards its goal of connecting the unconnected and creating a more inclusive digital society.
The implementation of Taara in various countries around the world demonstrates its scalability and potential for widespread adoption as a means of expanding internet access globally. By providing an alternative to traditional fiber optic cables, Taara offers a more efficient and accessible solution for connecting remote and underserved areas. The success of the project in Ghana serves as a model for future initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the opportunities afforded by the internet. Through innovative technologies like Taara, we can work towards a more connected and inclusive world where access to information and resources is not limited by geography or infrastructure constraints.
