The company presents a prototype of a wireless access platform that can deliver internet access to remote areas.

The company says in an official press release that more than four billion people don’t have access to the internet, and about 10% of world's population live outside the range of cellular connectivity. Taking into account the poor spread and relatively high costs of traditional connectivity infrastructure, Facebook wants to solve the problem with a new device called OpenCellular.

The platform can support any networks from 2G to LTE and Wi-Fi. It broadcasts signal, serving as an access point. OpenCellular can use various power sources: PoE, accumulators or solar batteries. The platform can easily be configured and adapted for any network and signal. It can be used both in towns and rural areas. The company promises simplified installation and support with low operational and support costs. OpenCellular design is suitable for severe climate conditions – the device can withstand strong winds, temperature differences, extreme heat and hard frost.

Facebook doesn’t reveal the device price and notes that the team will continue to develop and improve the platform after the first devices are put into operation. The company says it will work closely with local communities to get feedback and collect complaints and proposals. Facebook plans to install the first platforms already this summer.

Photo: Facebook

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