Internet 100 Times Faster Than Starlink and Much Cheaper is a Stir
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia Internet services have welcomed a new player. Alphabet (Google), through its startup Taara, is introducing laser-based internet, which it claims offers super-fast speeds.
This technology differs significantly from other services, such as satellite-based internet. Services like Starlink can deliver internet access via radio waves to areas difficult to reach by ground infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Taara uses light beams to transmit data at speeds of up to 20 gigabits per second (Gbps) over distances of up to 20 km. The system will be installed on rooftops or poles to avoid obstructions during operation.
Taara claims to provide services 10 to 100 times faster than Starlink.
Taara’s internet offerings are not just about the internet; they also promise a service that is cheaper than fiber optic cables. These services are typically expensive and complicated to install.
Taara also has plans to further develop its technology, releasing a miniaturized version of its Lightbridge system, the size of a fingertip, in 2026.
The chip will operate in the electromagnetic spectrum between infrared and visible light. Taara still offers speeds of 20 Gbps over distances of up to 20 km.
This service is suitable for geographically challenging locations, such as those across rivers, valleys, or in high-rise buildings, where wired internet service is difficult to implement.
Taara focuses on serving the last mile, namely areas that require high-speed internet but are hampered by expensive or difficult-to-implement traditional infrastructure. It is also ideal for small communities, event venues, and industrial areas.
Taara’s founder, Mahesh Krishnaswamy, emphasized the need for fast, affordable internet for the 3 billion people who lack reliable connectivity.
So far, Taara has conducted trials in several locations, including Kinshasa, Congo, and Nairobi, Kenya. These two regions face challenges in developing broadband infrastructure.
After installation, the results were satisfactory. These areas have high-speed, stable internet.
SOURCE : CNBC INDONESIA
