Internet Service Provider in Cyberjaya Launches Internet Coverage via Drones

Shirlyne Ingolo

Can you spot one of these drones flying past your window today evening?

Access to the internet is easily taken for granted. Setting up connectivity infrastructure and systems is very expensive especially for remote areas that are not easily accessible by road or sea. For decades telco moguls have muddled over various infrastructure options to cater to these areas efficiently given the technological advancement in the space. As of January 2021, there were 4.66 billion active internet users worldwide – 59.5 per cent of the global population. Of this total, 92.6 per cent (4.32 billion) accessed the internet via mobile devices.

Image by Datareportal

According to a comprehensive world study conducted by the International Telecommunication Union, internet usage in Malaysia is deemed at an impressive 84.2 per cent; which is 25.2 per cent higher than the global internet penetration rate. The internet usage rate in Malaysia brings it to a rank of number 29 worldwide, which some might argue, is not bad at all.

In a bid to cater to the remaining 15.8 per cent of the Malaysian population that is lacking adequate access to telecommunication infrastructure and internet connectivity, a Malaysian-owned virtual network operator, IX Telecom,  has recently deployed low-altitude drones equipped with wireless routers to provide broadband connections. In the next few months, these drones are set to provide internet connectivity to remote areas that lack adequate access to infrastructure, especially during emergency situations.

IX Telecom Internet Drones Launch

The drones were launched for a test run in Malaysia’s digital hub, Cyberjaya, early today morning into the stratosphere during a social-distanced launch ceremony led by IX Telecom engineers and officiated by the Chief Business Development Officer, Taufiq Hussien.

In order to reach more customers, IX Telecom will fly more drones in the area at a lower altitude. To start with, they will launch 1000 drones synchronized to fly at 100 meters exactly at 6 pm today. So if you live in Cyberjaya, you might be able to see the drones outside your windows!

About IX Telecom
IX Telecom is an award-winning global connectivity, SD-WAN, and managed services provider with coverage in more than 200 countries and territories. We simplify global access and ensure premium services at affordable pricing for any enterprise. IX offers a one-stop-shop solution with strong capabilities in SD-WAN, global internet service, network connectivity, managed services, data center & colocation, network monitoring, managed equipment, and other professional services.

 

 

 

 

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