Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is a major player in the global internet landscape. With billions of users across its platforms, Meta is responsible for a significant portion of internet traffic. In an effort to further enhance its services, Meta has announced plans to invest in a new subsea cable project, which could cost over $10 billion.
The subsea cable, spanning over 40,000 kilometers, will be a significant investment for Meta. The company plans to be the sole owner and user of this cable, marking a milestone in its infrastructure development. While the project is still in its early stages, Meta is expected to provide more details about the cable in early 2025, including the intended route and capacity.
Building a dedicated subsea cable will give Meta more control over its data traffic around the world. The planned route of the cable is set to connect the east coast of the U.S. to India via South Africa, and then to the west coast of the U.S. from India via Australia. This extensive route will allow Meta to ensure reliable connectivity for its users globally.
The decision to invest in a subsea cable underscores Meta’s commitment to expanding its infrastructure. By owning the cable outright, Meta will have priority access to capacity, which is crucial for supporting its growing user base. Additionally, the company’s focus on AI and data centers could play a role in shaping the future of this project.
In recent years, big tech companies like Meta have increasingly taken an interest in subsea cable ownership. This shift reflects the desire for more direct control over the infrastructure needed to deliver content and services worldwide. By investing in its own subsea cable, Meta is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for high-quality internet services.
The geopolitical implications of owning a subsea cable are also significant. Recent incidents involving cable damage due to warfare highlight the importance of secure communication channels. Meta’s planned route aims to avoid areas of geopolitical tension, ensuring that its data traffic remains secure and reliable.
Overall, Meta’s investment in a subsea cable project represents a strategic move to strengthen its infrastructure and expand its global reach. With AI and data centers playing a key role in its future plans, Meta is poised to leverage this new cable to enhance its services and support its growing user base.
