According to the sources Internet firm Google has approached the Government of India over the testing of its new project named ‘Project Loon’, a technology developed by Google to transmit internet connectivity using big balloons.
The project has already been tested in the California, New Zealand and Brazil by the search giant Google. It will now be focusing on bringing the technology to the Indian sub-continent where the initiative of ‘Digital India’ may favor Google’s strategic plans.
According to the sources, Google will work with the Government to carry initial tests for the ‘Project Loon’. A committee has been formed by the Government to monitor the project. Google may also partner with BSNL, a state owned telecom to use its broadband spectrum in 2.6 Ghz band for carrying out testings using balloons.
Under its new technology, Google will be using big balloons floating at an altitude of 20Kms to provide Internet connectivity signals. These balloons are powered by solar panels and wind power generators arranged over the balloons.
Google said that each balloon can transmit its internet signals to a ground area of 40Kms in diameter using the latest 4G technology. Google boosted that the technology has the ability to replace mobile towers in the near future as they are more economical.
Google may partner with Telecommunication companies providing 4G services as it needs spectrum to transmit Internet connectivity directly to phones and other LTE enabled devices, the Business Today reported.
An official from the Telecom ministry said PTI, that Google also had plans to provide internet connectivity using solar powered drones but the Government is yet to give its nod. The committee formed by the Government over the ‘Project Loon’, will look after coordinating various government agencies for the progress of the project.