Listed fiber provider Converge ICT Solutions is gearing up to double its data transmission capacity for its metro backbone, from 400 gigabits per second to 800 Gbps.

In a regulatory filing on Tuesday, July 6, Converge announced that the move will be done “in anticipation of the use of next-generation, hyperscale capacity applications over its fiber optic network.”

“Developments in cloud computing, big data, virtual reality, combined with the increasing demands on remote storage, and streaming technology is creating massive demand on our network and data centers,” said Converge chief executive officer Dennis Anthony Uy.

“We want to respond to the high-capacity needs of our network and customers, and to be able to accommodate any new-generation technologies they may have,” added Uy.

This means that more data will be pushed through data centers, decreasing latency and allowing for high-speed transfers needed for next-generation technologies such as the Internet of Things and smart cities.

Converge chief operations officer Jesus Romero said the upgraded capacity would allow users to download the latest season of first-person shooter game Valorant and over 20 HD movies in one second.

“At the same time, this latest technology allows us to use less hardware to efficiently deliver our services, limits the possibility of congestion whether in normal or outage situations, and reduces our energy consumption and cost,” added Romero.

In 2020, Converge activated the Philippines’ first 400-Gbps metro backbone.

For 2021, the listed firm has allocated P20 billion for capital expenditures, network expansion, expenses for its fiber-to-the-home ports rollout to reach 35% of Philippine households, and costs for the construction of domestic subsea cables.

Converge expanded to Mandaue City in Cebu last June. – Rappler.com