Is Meta Set to Launch APAC’s Largest Capacity Subsea Cable in 2028?
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Synopsis
Meta's ambitious project, the Candle subsea cable, promises to revolutionize connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region by 2028. Spanning 8,000 kilometers and offering a capacity of 570 terabits per second, this cutting-edge infrastructure aims to serve over 580 million users across multiple countries. Discover how this initiative will reshape digital communication!
Key Takeaways
- Meta's Candle subsea cable will launch in 2028.
- It will span 8,000 kilometers across multiple APAC countries.
- The cable aims to provide 570 Tbps capacity for over 580 million users.
- Collaboration with regional telecom partners is key to the project.
- Other ongoing projects include Bifrost, Echo, and Apricot cables.
New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) The American technology leader Meta has revealed plans to introduce the largest capacity subsea cable in the Asia-Pacific region, named Candle, in the year 2028.
This extensive cable will stretch roughly 8,000 kilometers, enhancing connectivity across Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, according to a statement from the company.
The initiative aims to provide a remarkable capacity of about 570 terabits per second (Tbps), potentially benefiting over 580 million individuals. Meta confirmed that the Candle cable will utilize 24 fibre-pair technology, achieving bandwidth comparable to its most significant capacity cable, Anjana. This new infrastructure will be constructed in partnership with local telecom operators, the company highlighted.
Additionally, Meta provided updates on other ongoing subsea projects, including the successful completion of the Bifrost cable system.
The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region accounts for more than 58 percent of global internet users, many of whom depend on strong digital infrastructure for online access and innovative technologies such as AI.
Recent progress was also reported on the Bifrost, Echo, and Apricot cables. The Bifrost cable now connects Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and the United States, with Mexico expected to be added by 2026. This cable will take a different route from previous transpacific cables, enhancing redundancy by over 260 Tbps on this busy digital path.
The Echo cable currently offers a capacity of 260 Tbps between Guam and California, with future possibilities for connectivity into Asia.
With planned expansions to the Philippines, Indonesia, and Singapore, Meta's Apricot system spans 12,000 kilometers and will add 290 Tbps of capacity, complementing the Bifrost and Echo systems.
In parallel, Meta is reportedly engaging contractors in the United States at rates reaching $55 (approximately Rs 4,850) per hour to develop Hindi-language AI chatbots tailored for users in India.
Point of View
Meta's announcement of the Candle subsea cable underscores the essential role of robust digital infrastructure in fostering connectivity and technological advancements in the Asia-Pacific region. As internet usage continues to rise, initiatives like these are crucial for supporting millions of users and enhancing access to innovative technologies.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Candle subsea cable?
The Candle subsea cable is a project by Meta, set to launch in 2028, designed to provide the largest capacity subsea cable in the Asia-Pacific region, spanning 8,000 kilometers with a capacity of 570 terabits per second.
Which countries will benefit from the Candle cable?
The Candle cable will enhance connectivity for Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
How many people will the Candle cable serve?
The Candle subsea cable is expected to benefit over 580 million people across the Asia-Pacific region.
What technology will the Candle cable use?
The Candle cable will utilize 24 fibre-pair technology to deliver high bandwidth similar to Meta's existing largest capacity cable, Anjana.
What other subsea projects is Meta working on?
Meta is also advancing projects like the Bifrost, Echo, and Apricot cables, which aim to enhance global connectivity.
