INTELLIGENT MOBILE TECHNOLOGY
World Mobile and Altaeros partner to launch aerostat balloons to connect the unconnected in Africa
W orld Mobile , the first mobile network built on Blockchain and run by the people , has partnered with Altaeros , developers of the first autonomous aerostats , to connect the unconnected . Through this partnership , Altaeros and World Mobile will provide low-altitude aerostats ( tethered balloon platforms ) with a coverage area of approximately 8,000 kilometres each , forming part of World Mobile ’ s Dynamic Network .
World Mobile plans to launch these balloons across Africa to connect hundreds of millions of people . Several aerostats will launch in Zanzibar anchoring the network and delivering connectivity near to 100 % of the island . Each aerostat will connect hundreds of thousands of subscribers and each subscriber on the network will create a Blockchain wallet . World Mobile will also be deploying thousands of aerostats across the continent .
The aerostat system consists of a heliumfilled envelope and stabilising fins . The unique three-tethered architecture limits the aerostat ’ s movement in the air ( pitch , roll and yaw ), which is essential in stabilising telco coverage , so connectivity doesn ’ t drop in and out . The aerostat is attached to a movable mooring platform with built-in software that adjusts the balloon ’ s position depending on wind conditions . The onboard communication system , using beamforming technology ( a technique that focuses a wireless signal towards a specific receiving device ) will allow 3G , 4G and 5G handsets to connect directly and will also connect WM AirNodes in the vicinity via traditional and alternative spectrums .
“ We ’ re on a journey to bring modern infrastructure to billions of un-served and under-served people around the world . We ’ re driven by a belief that business and technical innovation are the keys to creating a positive , scalable impact . World Mobile is the perfect partner to work with to deliver our vision as they strive to connect the unconnected , everywhere ,” said Ben Glass , CEO and CTO , Altaeros .
“ World Mobile is on a mission to connect the unconnected and build the first mobile
World Mobile is on a mission to connect the unconnected and build the first mobile network powered and run by the people .
network powered and run by the people . Working with leading tech partners who share our values will make us stronger ,” said Micky Watkins Founder and CEO , World Mobile .
World Mobile is the first mobile network powered and run by the people . The company ’ s fearless commitment to community , the environment , and technology will help them go where no telecom has gone before . By joining forces with its users , it will connect billions of unconnected people worldwide allowing everyone the freedom to explore the world .
Altaeros is on a mission is to help bring connectivity to those who need it most . Founded at MIT in 2010 , Altaeros is focused on developing and deploying innovative real-world infrastructure solutions to bring affordable services anywhere needed , helping businesses and communities access the basic building blocks to allow for prosperity . Altaeros is headquartered in the USA . •
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