Google testing superfast 5G powered by drones

 

Google testing superfast 5G powered by drones

 

Tech giant, Google, is in the process of developing superfast 5G networks, powered by drones. The project, dubbed SkyBender, is under trial in New Mexico at the Spaceport America centre. If successful, this could mean data speeds that run 40 times faster than the current maximum 4G speeds available on smartphones.

The new 5G network will operate via millimetre-wave radio transmissions, which deliver ultrafast speeds but this is at the expense of a very short distance range in comparison to 4G broadcast. Google is experimenting with complex and powerful technologies to boost the 5G range of its drones and will also work on the fact that bad weather is currently interferring with the signals.

The advantage of this technology would be access to a whole new blank canvas cellphone spectrum because the existing spectrum is overcrowded and will not allow for much more expansion.

Google is not the first organisation to test out the use of millimetre wave technology and drones. In 2014, the research department of the US military generated a fleet of drones which were able to provide one gigabit per second communications for their troops in remote areas.

The end goal of this SkyBender project is to deliver thousands of high altitude self-flying aircraft which will provide high speed internet across the globe.

Google have permission to continue tests in New Mexico until July, and are spending more than $1,000 dollars a day to rent out 15,000 square feet of hangar space.
It is not clear when the 5G drone powered network will be made available to public but Google certainly seem determined to make sure these solar powered, unmanned aerial vehicles will connect as much of the world to high speed internet as possible.