O3b Networks will support Google, Liberty Global and HSBC Principal Investments in their plan to enable cost-effective voice and broadband services on emerging markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.

Unlike other countries in the Northern Hemisphere that benefit from a submarine fiber network, in developing markets this alternative is not viable. The plan is to deploy a network of 16 satellites to provide the infrastructure for high-speed, low-cost Internet connectivity.

“Access to the Internet backbone is still severely limited in emerging markets,” said high-technology entrepreneur Greg Wyler. “Only when emerging markets achieve affordable and ubiquitous access to the rest of the world will we observe locally generated content, widespread e-learning, telemedicine and many more enablers to social and economic growth which reflect the true value of the Internet.”

The O3b system will allow direct connection to core networks and 3G Cellular/WiMAX towers, completely changing the telecommunications infrastructure in some of the world’s fastest-growing markets for communication services.

Google Alternative Access Team Product Manager Larry Alder explained that their goal is to expand the reach of the Internet to users who currently have limited access to it, or too expensive connection options. The ultimate goal is “organizing the world’s information and making it universally accessible and useful.”

Together with Liberty Global, a world leading international cable operator, and HSBC Principal Investments, Google will offer financial and operational support for the new infrastructure as a response to the rapid growth of telecommunication services in emerging markets.

O3b Networks Chairman John W. Dick and high-technology entrepreneur Greg Wyler have also supported the first 3G mobile and fiber-for-the-home (FTTH) networks in Africa.