Meta has unveiled an ambitious initiative, Project Waterworth, aimed at revolutionizing global internet connectivity through a groundbreaking sub-sea cable project. The endeavor seeks to establish "industry-leading connectivity" across five major continents, bridging the United States, India, South Africa, Brazil, and other key regions. This project promises to enhance Meta's capabilities in supporting its artificial intelligence (AI) projects and reflects its increasing stake in the connectivity domain.
The proposed sub-sea cable will be the longest underwater cable project in the world upon completion, with parts laid as deep as 7,000 meters below the sea surface. By bypassing traditional routes through Europe and China, and avoiding geopolitical hotspots such as the Suez Canal and South China Sea, Meta aims to forge a new path in global connectivity infrastructure. This strategy aligns with Meta's broader objectives of expanding its influence beyond social media into AI and supporting technology infrastructure.
"This project will provide industry-leading connectivity to five major continents and help support its AI projects" – Meta
As of now, more than 600 publicly-known sub-sea cable systems exist worldwide. However, Project Waterworth diverges from existing routes, potentially reshaping digital interconnectivity by skipping regions fraught with geopolitical tensions. This bold move underscores the growing capability of big tech firms to independently fund such extensive infrastructure projects.
"This is a further demonstration as it seeks to leapfrog rivals in providing users with an unique experience by tightly integrating hardware, software, platform and its growing aspirations in connectivity" – Prof Lehdonvirta
Meta's ambition to command a larger portion of the digital connectivity landscape is evident. The company has emphasized the significance of this project in enabling greater economic cooperation, facilitating digital inclusion, and opening new avenues for technological advancement in the connected regions.
"This project will enable greater economic co-operation, facilitate digital inclusion, and open opportunities for technological development in these regions" – Meta
The project's implications extend beyond technological advancements. It signifies a shift towards tech giants playing a pivotal role in laying such infrastructure, a trend observed over the past decade.
"Over the past decade there has been a shift in which these cables are increasingly laid by large technology companies" – Prof Lehdonvirta
Project Waterworth may also draw attention from policymakers concerned about the concentration of power within digital markets. The ability of companies like Meta to independently fund such projects highlights their growing economic influence globally.
"bolstering US economic and infrastructural power abroad" – Prof Lehdonvirta
In parallel developments, Google has announced plans for a sub-sea cable connecting Africa and Australia, alongside a $1 billion investment aimed at enhancing connectivity to Japan. Meanwhile, NATO launched a mission earlier this year to bolster surveillance of ships in the Baltic Sea following damage to critical undersea cables last year.
Meta plans to employ advanced techniques to ensure the durability and security of the cable.
"use enhanced burial techniques in high-risk fault areas, such as shallow waters near the coast, to avoid damage from ship anchors and other hazards" – Meta