Google is investing in a service to bring internet access to 3bn people in Africa and other emerging markets by launching at least 16 satellites to provide services to the unconnected half of the globe. The company has teamed up with John Malone, the cable television magnate, and HSBC to set up O3b Networks, named after the 'other 3bn' people for whom fast fibre internet access networks are not likely to be commercially viable.
Reiko Uchida, 10 September 2008