One Web Pulls Ahead In The Internet Space Race

One Web Ltd and SpaceX have both been working to become worldwide provers of internet services via satellite. The two companies plan to reach remote corners of the globe where internet access is limited or nonexistent through the use of satellite signals. While the endeavor has been criticized as being a pipe dream, the companies have continued to press on with European One Web moving a few steps ahead of US-based SpaceX. One Web Moves Forward With Plans On Monday, One Web announced that Airbus Group EADSY would be responsible for the design and building of some 900 satellites destined for space in 2018. Airbus said it expects to begin producing the satellites in France before moving production to a plant in the US; the exact location of which has not been released. Cost Struggle While One Web's plans to begin launching in 2018 appear to suggest the company is about to become the world's first global internet provider, there are still many obstacles to overcome. Most importantly, both SpaceX and One Web will struggle to keep the cost of their endeavor low enough to appeal to remote, often impoverished regions where internet isn't available. Regulatory Issues Regulation is another concern; traditional providers like Comcast CMCSA must meet a barrage of requirements in order to be considered as broadband providers, and satellite internet service providers are subjected to the same rules. One Web has the upper hand when it comes to regulatory issues, as the company owns failed satellite company Teledesic's wireless spectrum rights. Meanwhile SpaceX is rumored to be in talks with the FCC about gaining proper licensing.