- Meta’s Project Waterworth: A groundbreaking 50,000 km subsea cable connecting five continents to enhance global internet connectivity and AI advancements.
- Advanced Technology & Security: First cable to use 24 fiber-pair technology, with deep-sea deployment and protective measures to safeguard against cyber threats and physical damage.
- Expanding Meta’s Reach: Beyond subsea cables, Meta is investing in AI-powered humanoid robots and growing its retail presence with stores like the Meta Lab in Los Angeles.
Meta has announced Project Waterworth, an ambitious subsea cable initiative set to become the longest underwater cable in history. Stretching over 50,000 kilometers, the project will connect five continents, including Brazil, India, South Africa, and the United States. Designed to enhance global internet infrastructure, Project Waterworth aims to support the growing demand for high-speed connectivity and bolster advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).
The multi-billion-dollar venture is expected to be completed over several years and will introduce three new oceanic corridors. These routes are designed to improve internet access in underserved regions, fostering economic growth and digital inclusion. Meta has emphasized that the project will expand technological opportunities and strengthen international cooperation through enhanced digital communication.
Setting a new industry benchmark, the subsea cable will be the first to feature 24 fiber-pair technology, significantly increasing data transfer capacity compared to existing systems, which typically use between 8 and 16 fiber pairs. Meta has previously contributed to global subsea connectivity through multiple projects, including the 2Africa cable, which spans 45,000 kilometers across three continents. The company joins other tech giants, such as Google, in accelerating investments in undersea cable networks to expand global reach.
Concerns over the security of undersea cables have intensified following recent incidents of cable damage, raising fears about potential sabotage and cyber threats. NATO has responded by launching surveillance initiatives in the Baltic Sea to monitor critical infrastructure, while the UK government has begun investigating national resilience against disruptions. Meta has taken precautionary measures by designing Project Waterworth to reach depths of up to 7,000 meters and implementing advanced burial techniques to protect the cable from external hazards.
Beyond subsea connectivity, Meta is also expanding its efforts in AI and robotics. The company has established a robotics division under Reality Labs, focusing on humanoid robots powered by AI. These innovations align with Meta’s broader vision of integrating AI into various aspects of technology. Additionally, Meta is growing its retail presence, following the launch of the Meta Lab store in Los Angeles, as it continues to shape the future of digital infrastructure and consumer technology.
