GOOGLE’S PLANS TO spend more than $1 billion on satellites that will provide internet access worldwide from space.

The project will start with 180 small, high-capacity satellites which will orbit the earth at lower altitudes than traditional satellites, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The satellites would weigh less than 250 pounds and would hope to cover the entire globe.

The projected price ranges from around $1 billion to more than $3 billion, the final cost depending on the network’s final design and a later phase that could double the number of satellites.

There are between 10 to 20 people working on the project, headed by the founder of satellite-communications startup O3b Networks, Greg Wyler, who reports to Chief Executive Larry Page.

The satellites are part of Project Loon, a Google project which aims to bring internet access to remote regions via high-altitude balloons. Facebook also has a similar project, Internet.org, which also aims to bring internet access to remote areas.

Facebook was said to be interested in solar-powered drone company Titan Aerospace before Google acquired it for an undisclosed fee.

The aim for both companies is to expand its reach and grow user numbers by targeting developing and untapped markets. By bringing internet to these areas, it will mean more people will use its services which will help boost revenue and earnings.

Read: Samsung takes first steps away from Android by announcing first Tizen smartphone >

Read: How to get more out of your phone when you’re offline >

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More