In a move to enhance cloud technology via satellite connectivity, Mangata Networks has announced a long-term partnership with Microsoft.
The collaboration aims to develop an AI-enabled edge cloud product, leveraging satellite-enabled connectivity and intelligent edge computing solutions, according to the company.
Mangata Networks will provide global connectivity and intelligent cloud computing services, integrating the Azure innovation platform. The network, comprising a multi-orbit constellation of HEO and MEO satellites, along with a terrestrial network of edge data centers, aims to offer seamless service worldwide, Mangata said.
The partnership focuses on innovation, with Mangata Networks working closely with Microsoft to develop an integrated Edge-to-Space-to-Cloud product roadmap. Using Microsoft's AI and data analytics, Mangata aims to enhance the product innovation lifecycle, from customer feedback to deployment, focusing on delivering Azure adaptive cloud solutions tailored for complex edge scenarios.
The collaboration seeks to extend Azure adaptive cloud's reach and functionality, offering features like AI-enhanced network routing, remote bandwidth optimization, and advanced satellite backhaul management.
Executive Insight
Brian Holz, CEO of Mangata Networks, commented:
"We are thrilled to develop this transformative product in strategic collaboration with Microsoft, further enriching the Microsoft commercial marketplace ecosystem. Our offering is not just a product but an all-encompassing network, infrastructure, platform, and software service."
Mitra Azizirad, president and COO, for growth, innovation and strategy, Microsoft Strategic Missions and Technologies, said:
"In collaboration with Mangata, we look forward to delivering an end-to-end Cloud and Edge platform to enterprise and government customers. This collaboration is key for our continued commitment to empower our customers with intelligent, secure, and resilient technology."
Processing Data at the Best Location
This collaboration enables customers to process data at its creation point, reducing latency and improving operational insights through advanced analytics and AI-inferencing hosted at the edge. For organizations in highly regulated or data-sensitive regions, this allows for local data processing, aligning with national and regional data sovereignty regulations, Mangata said.
The partnership could help solve global challenges such as sovereign state requirements, enterprise innovation, and digital divide issues, the companies said. This aligns with the Airband Initiative, a joint effort by Microsoft and USAID to provide global internet access.
The pilot phase for these pre-integrated solutions is set for the late 2nd quarter of 2024, aligning with Mangata's planned constellation launch. This marks a significant step in how businesses and governments utilize edge cloud connectivity through satellite technology.
