In an era defined by the exponential growth of digital communication, the demand for high-speed internet and reliable global connectivity has never been greater.

To meet this demand, tech giants like Meta and Google are spearheading ambitious projects to expand the world’s network of undersea cables.

These massive infrastructure investments are not just about improving internet speeds—they represent a strategic effort to shape the future of global data transmission.

The Growing Need for Undersea Cables

Undersea cables form the backbone of international communication, carrying over 95% of the world’s intercontinental data traffic.
Unlike satellite systems, which are prone to latency and limited bandwidth, fiber-optic cables provide faster, more stable, and cost-effective solutions for transmitting vast amounts of information across oceans.
As cloud computing, streaming services, artificial intelligence, and IoT devices continue to proliferate, the need for increased capacity and redundancy in these networks has become critical.

Tech companies like Meta and Google are at the forefront of this expansion, driven by their insatiable appetite for data. These firms rely on robust infrastructure to support their platforms, from Facebook and Instagram to YouTube and Google Cloud.
By investing in undersea cables, they ensure seamless user experiences while also gaining greater control over their data ecosystems.

Meta’s Ambitious 50,000-Kilometer Project

Meta recently announced plans to construct a groundbreaking undersea cable that will span an astonishing 50,000 kilometers (31,069 miles)—a distance longer than the Earth’s circumference. This project underscores Meta’s commitment to building a next-generation global network capable of handling unprecedented levels of data traffic.

While specific details about the cable’s route and endpoints remain undisclosed, the sheer scale of the initiative highlights Meta’s vision for a hyperconnected world. The company likely aims to strengthen its infrastructure in underserved regions, enabling faster access to its platforms and supporting emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).

This move also reflects Meta’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on third-party providers and create a proprietary network optimized for its unique needs. By owning and operating its own cables, Meta can enhance performance, lower costs, and improve data security.

Google’s Transatlantic Sol Cable System

Meanwhile, Google continues to solidify its position as a leader in global connectivity with the launch of the Sol transatlantic cable system. Announced earlier this month, the Sol system connects the United States, Bermuda, the Azores Islands, and Spain, creating a vital link between North America and Europe.

What sets Sol apart is its cutting-edge design. Built using advanced fiber-optic technology, it offers significantly higher capacity and resilience compared to older cables.
According to Google, the Sol system incorporates “spatial division multiplexing,” a technique that increases data throughput by transmitting multiple signals simultaneously through a single fiber strand. This innovation ensures the cable can handle surging demands for bandwidth without compromising speed or reliability.

With investments in over 30 undersea cables worldwide, Google has established itself as a key player in the global telecommunications landscape. Its extensive network supports not only consumer-facing services like Search and YouTube but also enterprise solutions such as Google Cloud Platform (GCP), which powers businesses across industries.

Why Are Tech Giants Investing in Undersea Infrastructure?

The decision by Meta and Google to invest heavily in undersea cables is driven by several factors:

Increased Data Consumption: Streaming video, online gaming, remote work, and cloud storage have all contributed to skyrocketing data usage. Traditional networks are struggling to keep pace with this growth.

Reduced Latency: Owning private cables allows companies to minimize delays in data transmission, delivering smoother and faster experiences for users.

Enhanced Security: Relying on third-party cables poses risks, including potential surveillance or sabotage. By controlling their own infrastructure, Meta and Google can implement stronger cybersecurity measures.

Market Expansion: Undersea cables enable tech giants to extend their reach into new markets, particularly in developing regions where internet penetration remains low.

Competitive Advantage: Building proprietary networks gives these companies a competitive edge over rivals who depend on shared infrastructure.

Challenges and Risks

Despite their benefits, undersea cable projects come with significant challenges:

High Costs: Constructing and maintaining undersea cables requires billions of dollars in investment. For example, the average cost of laying a transoceanic cable ranges from $200 million to $500 million.

Environmental Concerns: Cable installation can disrupt marine ecosystems, prompting scrutiny from environmental groups.

Geopolitical Tensions: Undersea cables often traverse politically sensitive areas, making them vulnerable to disputes or sabotage.

Technical Failures: Submarine cables face threats from natural disasters, ship anchors, and fishing activities, necessitating regular maintenance and repairs.

To mitigate these risks, Meta and Google partner with experienced engineering firms and adhere to strict regulatory standards. They also employ state-of-the-art materials and technologies to enhance durability and longevity.

The Future of Global Connectivity

Looking ahead, the race to build undersea cables shows no signs of slowing down. Other tech giants, including Amazon and Microsoft, are expected to follow suit, further intensifying competition in this space. Additionally, advancements in quantum communication and AI-driven optimization could revolutionize how data is transmitted globally.

For now, Meta and Google’s efforts demonstrate a clear trend: the privatization of global telecommunications infrastructure. By taking matters into their own hands, these companies are reshaping the way we connect, communicate, and collaborate across borders.

As the digital economy continues to evolve, undersea cables will play a pivotal role in bridging divides and fostering innovation. Whether you’re streaming your favorite show, attending a virtual meeting, or running a multinational business, chances are you’re benefiting from the invisible yet indispensable network beneath the waves.


By Claire Whitmore
July 22, 2025