Amazon will invest more than Rs. 1000 Crore to build a network of 3,236 satellites that will provide high-speed broadband internet services to people around the world. Federal Communications Commission approved the plan called Project Kuiper that will compete with the Starlink network being built out by SpaceX.In 2018, the FCC voted to allow Space X, Telesat Canada and two other companies to roll out new satellite-based broadband services
The project will also benefit wireless carriers deploying 5G and other wireless service to new regions, Amazon said. By comparison, SpaceX has launched over 500 satellites and plans to offer broadband service in the United States and Canada by the year’s end.
Satellite technology can provide high-speed internet for people who live in rural or hard-to-serve places where fiber optic cables and cell towers do not reach. The technology could also be a critical backstop when hurricanes or other natural disasters disrupt communication. Amazon said it would begin to offer broadband service once 578 satellites are launched. Amazon plans to deploy Kuiper in five phases and will provide broadband services to unserved and underserved consumers, businesses in the United States, and global customers.
