Google Signs Internet Deal with Cuba
Google Signs Internet Deal with Cuba
The Google-Cuba deal is a step in the direction to create greater connectivity and access which is positive, says AS/COA’s Alana Tummino.
Google signed an agreement with the Cuban government granting internet users on quicker and expanded access to its branded content.
The deal grants Cubans fast access to the Google Global Cache network, which stores content like Gmail and YouTube on servers that are closer to users.
Eric Schmidt, chairman of Google's parent company Alphabet Inc., signed the deal with Mayra Arevich Marin, president of state telecommunications monopoly ETECSA on Monday.
In a country where public internet access is limited to slow and expensive Wi-Fi hot spots, it was not clear how the deal would actually impact service in the short term.
"Telecoms and greater internet connectivity have been key pillars of the new U.S. policy toward Cuba, and Cuba has developed its own national development strategy to bring greater internet access to its people," said Alana Tummino, senior director at the Americas Society/Council of the Americas and head of their Cuba Working Group….
