Latest news with #Viasat
CNET
2 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Amazon Just Kicked Off Project Kuiper: Here's What We Know About Starlink's Latest Competitor
Bringing broadband to remote, rural and underserved areas is no easy or cheap feat. Fiber networks are expensive to build out, and cable internet coverage is actually decreasing. Although 5G home internet is growing in availability and popularity, its speeds and reliability are at the mercy of tower proximity and network congestion. Satellite internet has poised itself as a viable solution to rural broadband woes but not the single-satellite, geostationary services from Hughesnet and Viasat, which have been around for years with minimal improvements. Instead: an entire constellation of high-tech, low-orbiting satellites. Starlink has shown that, in numbers -- specifically, over 7,000 -- low Earth orbit, or LEO, satellites can deliver widespread broadband availability while lowering latency, increasing speed potential and eliminating restrictive data caps of traditional satellite internet. The challenge of getting such an ambitious project off the ground requires endless approvals and expert teams working together. In July 2020, Amazon received approval from the Federal Communications Commission to deploy and operate Project Kuiper (pronounced ki -- as in kite -- per) satellites. On April 28, after a delay because of the weather, Amazon finally kicked off Project Kuiper by launching 27 low-Earth orbit satellites. There's still a way to go before the satellite internet service is ready for home use, but this is a promising step forward for the tech and e-commerce giant as it enters the ultra-competitive satellite industry space. Here's everything to know about Project Kuiper as of May 2025. Locating local internet providers Amazon's Project Kuiper Internet Satellites Take Flight on ULA Rocket Amazon's Project Kuiper Internet Satellites Take Flight on ULA Rocket Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 4:17 Loaded : 2.31% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 4:17 Share Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Amazon's Project Kuiper Internet Satellites Take Flight on ULA Rocket What is Project Kuiper? Project Kuiper is Amazon's initiative to increase broadband availability worldwide by deploying thousands of low-orbiting satellites that send and receive internet signals worldwide. The service is designed for residential and commercial applications, offering a high-speed connection for use in homes, businesses, government agencies, and other institutions, particularly those in underserved areas. Amazon has made an effort to emphasize Project Kuiper as "affordable broadband." Though we're not sure what the monthly or up-front costs will be, expect it to be competitively priced compared to Starlink. Amazon made a point of emphasizing that the equipment will be accessible, design-wise and cost-wise. In addition to thousands of advanced LEO satellites, approximately 7,000 orbiting somewhere between 367 to 391 miles high, Project Kuiper will leverage a network of ground-based antennas, fiber connections and customer terminals to deliver service. Amazon Amazon claims that the standard customer terminal, which you would use to receive fixed home internet service, has the potential to deliver speeds up to 400 megabits per second. That's a good deal faster than current speed expectations from Starlink (25 to 100Mbps with standard service). Commercial terminals boast an even faster speed potential, up to 1 gigabit per second. Sounds great. So, when can I sign up? Not for another year or so, at least. When will Project Kuiper internet be available? Once a few hundred satellites are in orbit, the ability to broadcast broadband doesn't take long, though Amazon has not yet announced an official start date for service. "We plan to begin rolling out Project Kuiper commercial service next year [2025], starting with service demonstrations for our earliest enterprise customers, then consumer beta testing and then general availability later in the year," a spokesperson from Amazon said. So, Project Kuiper's home internet service could arrive sometime in late 2025. Don't plan to cancel your current internet service just yet. Not everyone across the US will be eligible to sign up right away. Regional availability will vary Project Kuiper's satellite fleet will operate within 56 degrees north and south of the equator. That covers most of North America (but excludes much of Alaska), and nearly all of South America, plus a great deal of Africa, Australia, Asia and Europe. Not all projected coverage areas will be immediately eligible for service at launch. Amazon hasn't yet revealed which locations will be the first to receive eligibility, but did state that "regions will come online quickly as we add satellites to the constellation." So far, so good for Project Kuiper Amazon has successfully launched the first test satellites for its Project Kuiper broadband satellite network. Amazon Project Kuiper launched two prototype satellites in October 2023 and, within 30 days of launch, reportedly achieved a 100% success rate. The satellites were later intentionally removed from orbit in May 2024 as part of Project Kuiper's commitment to space safety and sustainability. In December 2023, Project Kuiper secured 80 rockets from four launch providers: Arianespace, SpaceX (yes, the parent company of Starlink), ULA and, of course, the Jeff Bezos-founded Blue Origin. Amazon launched its first 27 rockets into orbit on April 28. The rocket acquisition, launch and FCC approvals set Project Kuiper up to begin offering broadband for commercial and residential use sometime in 2025. CNET will keep you updated on significant developments, including when and where Amazon's Project Kuiper internet will be available for residential use in the US, what speeds you can expect and how much it will cost.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Why Viasat Stock Crumbled by 16% This Week
The satellite company posted a surprise net loss for its fiscal 2025 fourth quarter. Needham analyst Ryan Koontz cut his price target on the stock by about 16%. 10 stocks we like better than Viasat › Investors aggressively intensified the force of the market's gravity on satellite company Viasat (NASDAQ: VSAT) over the past few trading sessions. In the wake of a disappointing quarterly earnings report and a subsequent analyst price target cut, the company's shares sank. According to data compiled by S&P Global Market Intelligence, they ended the week down 16%. The bears came for Viasat on Wednesday, just after the company unveiled its fiscal 2025 fourth-quarter results. The most striking aspect of the earnings release was the surprise net loss: Viasat's red ink for the period was $0.02 per share. The uncomfortable thing about this was that analysts' consensus estimate had been for a profit of $0.04 per share. The company's top-line performance wasn't all that much to write home about either: The slightly under $1.15 billion it booked in revenue was essentially flat year over year. That result did top analysts' collective projection, but only by a little. Investors might have been more forgiving of those weak results had the company not also announced a delay in the planned deployment of its latest satellites from the latter part of this year to early 2026. While this isn't a drastic change, a delay is a delay, and not beneficial to the business. With such factors in mind, on Thursday, Needham analyst Ryan Koontz pulled the lever on a price target reduction. In his view, Viasat will be trading at $16 per share a year from now, down from his previous estimation of $19 per share. This shift doesn't make him a bear, however, as he maintained his buy recommendation on the stock, which closed trading Friday at $9.15. While I don't think investors should abandon Viasat just because of its surprise quarterly loss, I'd highlight the fact that it remains a quite speculative investment. If you feel the company has potential and want to own its shares, please be prepared for higher-than-average volatility. Before you buy stock in Viasat, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and Viasat wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $640,662!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $814,127!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 963% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 168% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join . See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of May 19, 2025 Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Why Viasat Stock Crumbled by 16% This Week was originally published by The Motley Fool Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
VSAT, MOL Ink Deal to Upgrade Fleet Connectivity With NexusWave
Inmarsat Maritime, a subsidiary of Viasat, Inc. VSAT, recently announced that it has inked an agreement with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) to upgrade the Japanese shipping company's fleet from the current Fleet Xpress service to the next-generation NexusWave solution. This transition marks a strategic step in MOL's effort to build a more resilient and high-performance communication system, capable of enhancing operational efficiency and crew connectivity across its global upgrade to NexusWave brings a fully managed bonded connectivity service that integrates Inmarsat's Global Xpress Ka-band, low-Earth orbit satellite services, coastal Long-Term Evolution networks, and an L-band layer for added resilience. This unified architecture ensures seamless, high-speed, and highly reliable Internet access anywhere in the world, effectively removing the dependency on multiple, fragmented communication solutions traditionally used in complex maritime operations. As maritime workforces become increasingly digitally connected, the need for fast and stable Internet is critical not only for operations but also for crew welfare. With NexusWave, MOL is focusing on equipping its vessels to serve as both operational command centers and living spaces for crew members. The system's multi-layered approach supports this evolution by offering consistent speeds, unlimited data usage, and global coverage, all protected by enterprise-grade cybersecurity and backed by round-the-clock technical support. The integration of multiple network underlays into a single bonded service will not only simplify connectivity but also eliminate the inefficiencies of managing multiple disjointed systems. This aligns closely with MOL's vision of transforming its fleet into digitally connected, efficient, and crew-friendly floating workplaces and homes. Inmarsat is a global leader in delivering innovative and reliable mobile communication services worldwide. The buyout of the company in 2023 has immensely strengthened Viasat's portfolio, diversifying its service offerings and accelerating global expansion. One of the key features of NexusWave is its future-proof design. In recent real-world trials, it delivered download speeds of 330–340 Mbps and upload speeds of 70–80 Mbps, with average network availability exceeding 99.9%. NexusWave is also set to incorporate the next-generation ViaSat-3 Ka-band service, an ultra-high-capacity, high-speed network expected to launch in 2025. This integration will further enhance its capacity and speed, enabling it to keep pace with the evolving demands of maritime operators. This collaboration with MOL highlights the increasing demand for more advanced, bonded connectivity systems. The service will not only offer unmatched speed and reliability but also simplify fleet management by providing a single, trusted service tailored specifically for maritime environments. These advancements bode well for Viasat's long-term growth. Shares of Viasat have plunged 31.9% over the past year against the industry's growth of 41.1%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Viasat currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader industry have been discussed Networks, Inc. JNPR sports a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. In the last reported quarter, it delivered an earnings surprise of 4.88%. Juniper is leveraging the 400-gig cycle to capture hyperscale switching opportunities within the data center. The company is set to capitalize on the increasing demand for data center virtualization, cloud computing and mobile traffic packet/optical convergence. Juniper also introduced new features within its AI-driven enterprise portfolio, enabling customers to simplify the rollout of their campus wired and wireless networks while providing greater insight to network IDCC carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. In the trailing four quarters, InterDigital delivered an earnings surprise of 160.15%. The company is a pioneer in advanced mobile technologies that enable wireless communications and designs and develops a wide range of advanced technology solutions used in digital cellular, wireless 3G, 4G and IEEE 802-related products and Networks, Inc. ANET, carrying a Zacks Rank of 2 at present, supplies products to a prestigious set of customers, including Fortune 500 global companies in markets such as cloud titans, enterprises, financials and specialty cloud service delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 11.82% and has a long-term growth expectation of 14.81%. Arista currently serves five verticals, namely cloud titans (customers that deploy more than one million servers), cloud specialty providers, service providers, financial services and the rest of the enterprise. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Juniper Networks, Inc. (JNPR) : Free Stock Analysis Report InterDigital, Inc. (IDCC) : Free Stock Analysis Report Viasat Inc. (VSAT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Arista Networks, Inc. (ANET) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Why Viasat Is Losing Altitude Today
Viasat posted an unexpected quarterly loss due to noncash charges, but reported better-than-expected free cash flow. The company has a clear path for growth, but it comes with risk. 10 stocks we like better than Viasat › Satellite communications company Viasat (NASDAQ: VSAT) posted an unexpected quarterly loss, though the company's free cash flow was significantly better than expected. Investors are focused on the headline number, sending Viasat shares down as much as 8% at the open and down 3% as of 10:15 a.m. ET. Viasat lost $0.02 per share in its fiscal fourth quarter, ended March 31, on revenue of $1.15 billion, compared to Wall Street's expectations for a $0.04-per-share profit on slightly lower revenue. The company's $246 million net loss included a $169 million noncash write-down related to Viasat's Europe and Middle Eastern ground network. Defense sales grew by 11% in the quarter, but Viasat's communications services sector saw sales fall by 4%. Viasat did post a positive $51 million in free cash flow in the period, much better than the $75 million negative free cash flow that Wall street had expected. The big news from the report is a slight delay in Viasat's plan to deploy its latest generation of satellites. The first of these VS3 satellites is already in service, but satellite two has been pushed back to early 2026 from late 2025. There are a lot of moving parts here, including a $5 billion pile of debt offset by $1.61 billion in cash and another $1.14 billion in borrowing capacity. Viasat expects about $1.3 billion in capital expenditures in its new fiscal year, implying a slight cash burn is likely in 2026. There is also new competition in the sky from the likes of SpaceX's Starlink and others. The bull case from here is Viasat uses the current fiscal year to ramp up its business while continuing to manage its debt, putting it in place for positive free cash flow by 2027. If that plays out the stock can likely take on additional altitude as well. But investors need to understand a lot can go wrong, and keep Viasat to a small part of a diversified portfolio if they decide to buy in. Before you buy stock in Viasat, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and Viasat wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $642,582!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $829,879!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 975% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 172% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join . See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of May 19, 2025 Lou Whiteman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Why Viasat Is Losing Altitude Today was originally published by The Motley Fool
Broadcast Pro
7 days ago
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Viasat expands coverage of in-flight connectivity service
Business aviation customers using the Global Aero Terminal 5510 have benefitted from their high-performance connectivity being extended into the Middle East and South America. Viasat has announced that business aviation customers using its in-flight connectivity solution on super-midsized private jets are now benefitting from expanded coverage into the Middle East and South America. The service enhancement is available to current and future customers using Viasats Global Aero Terminal (GAT) 5510, which already provides high-performance connectivity with uncapped speeds over North and Central America, the Caribbean, North Atlantic flight tracks and Europe. Expanded coverage into the Middle East and South America has been delivered by optimising the use of Viasats satellite network assets and management tools, with existing customers only requiring a simple over-the-air software download and remote configuration. The compact GAT 5510 terminal is certified on a range of different private jets. Available as a linefit option on the Gulfstream G280, Bombardier C3500 and Embraer Praetors, it is also a retrofit option through Viasats network of authorised dealers, with Supplemental Type Certificate (STCs) on several popular airframes. Kai Tang, Head of Business Aviation at Viasat, said: 'Viasat has a successful track record of delivering high-performance connectivity to a large number of super-midsized private jets, allowing passengers to seamlessly access the most data-hungry applications, such as high-definition video conferencing, content streaming and bulk file transfers. This is a very important segment of our market and has shown significant growth, driven by large fleet operators who have emphasized the importance of coverage into the Middle East and South America. Weve received extremely positive feedback since responding to that need and look forward to building on this momentum with other strategic coverage extensions soon. 'This also marks an important step in harmonising Viasat business aviation solutions following our acquisition of Inmarsat. As our service for super-midsized private jets continues to evolve, it has also transitioned from its former name of Viasat Ka and is now part of our next generation JetXP in-flight connectivity brand. As a result, the total number of JetXP customers now exceeds 600 worldwide, signaling a strong and rapid uptake in the market.' JetXP became commercially available at the end of last year, with the launch of new service plans for Viasats legacy Jet ConneX solution. Hundreds of customers have already upgraded to the JetXP service plans, enjoying a range of premium benefits, such as uncapped speeds, expanded capacity and increased network prioritisation. Todays announcement marks another milestone, as customers of the legacy Viasat Ka business aviation service have now also transitioned to JetXP, following the introduction of expanded capacity. This supports Viasats continued focus on taking business aviation in-flight connectivity to the next level by unleashing the full power of its global Ka-band network and building on a successful track record for delivering consistent, reliable and seamless global connectivity, complemented by the white-glove customer service and 24/7 support of its distribution partners – Collins Aerospace, Gogo and Honeywell. The service was developed following extensive consultation with customers, partners and research agencies, in addition to detailed analysis of usage trends over recent years. The results indicated that expectations around business aviation connectivity have evolved considerably. Traditional speed-based plans are now outdated, especially those that advertise a top-speed without details around when, where and how frequently it will be achieved. Instead, the business aviation industry has broadened its focus to the overall experience. Tang added: 'This sentiment has also been reflected by insights from our annual industry survey, which asked business aviation professionals to share their views on in-flight connectivity. Reliability, coverage, consistency and overall experience including white-glove customer service and 24/7 global support were found to be the most important factors, followed by speed. So while were consistently seeing speeds that exceed 100Mbps over Europe and other regions, these survey results highlight the markets understanding that beyond a certain bandwidth threshold, high speed tests do not reflect the actual passenger experience. Instead, you need a combination of several different factors and thats where JetXP really excels. 'It combines a range of strengths after our acquisition of Inmarsat to offer the best of both worlds: from our global coverage and powerful capacity to our advanced network management techniques, trusted expertise and world-class innovation. We also continue to invest heavily in customer support for our partners, ensuring they have the best tools and resources necessary to provide a reliable and robust connectivity experience.'
