It’s been a lifelong dream for technology gurus like Facebok CEO Mark Zuckerburg for every person in the world to have Internet access. And they’re using every resource they can to make that happen, even potential drones.
Social media giants like Facebook and Google are determined to use air technology like high altitude balloons and drones. But even Facebook leaders say this is going to be a great challenge. But Connectivity Lab and Internet.org, created by the inventors and higher ups of Facebook, are determined to release solar drones that they insists can connect billions of people to the Internet, especially those in poor and remote areas who wouldn’t have online access otherwise. And these aren’t just another version of your typical commercial jet airliner. These balloons and drones will have to fly above weather and all air circumstances, as high as 60,000-90,000 above sea level. If they get too much lower, inclement weather could easily impact, if not destroy, these air devices. Then there are the regulations, like one human must operate every drone. But Connectivity Lab is very optimistic. They’re so optimistic in fact they’re going to start testing next year. It’s not known where, but they’ve got 21 places between Africa, Asia and Central/South America they’re looking at. It successful, there will have drones all over in 5 years or less.
I respect what they’re doing in principal. In 2014, every person on Earth should have at least the opportunity to experience the Internet, something we Americans all but take for granted. They may not like it, but at least they should have the opportunity. But questions arise. Where are they going to find the manpower to fly one drone/balloon per person? And how are they going to convince lawmakers to give them the legal wiggle room they need? And what about privacy rights and concerns? Will these drones even make it off the ground?