Following six months of operations since its launch in 2021, Anuvu (formerly Global Eagle), has shared its aims for the future and reflected on its launch year. The company’s main ambitions are in the inflight connectivity arena, in which it is aiming to lead the industry in providing flexible and scalable capacity through a hybrid network comprised of GEO, MicroGEO and LEO satellites.
With this ambition in mind, Anuvu recently secured a commitment for US$50 million of growth capital that will allow it to focus on the expansion of the Anuvu Constellation ground and space networks, including its network management and data platforms and advanced mobility-focused antennas. With additional board authorisation for new equity, the company plans to continue to make investments across inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC), including advances in wireless streaming.
Looking back, in March 2021, Anuvu divested its legacy land business to Marlink AS, raising funds for its connectivity business. The company then announced its plan to launch a high-performance MicroGEO satellite constellation, delivering dedicated bandwidth to aviation and maritime customers. A partnership was entered into with satellite manufacturer Astranis, in a deal that includes two satellites to launch in early 2023, with six more to follow.
Additionally, EASA granted approval for a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the installation of Anuvu’s in-house developed Airconnect Global Ku inflight connectivity (IFC) system.
The company also made progress in IFE media and content, creating a digital end-to-end supply chain and launching two new systems for media and content customers: Iris and Explore. Iris is an IFE subscription service for airlines, with a wide variety of premium content available. The Explore system is an online tool that offers airlines an alternative to the industry’s legacy approach to content and media selection.
Anuvu also expanded its range of non-traditional video content, through a partnership with Complex Networks, one of the largest youth culture brands. Anuvu also expanded its inflight gaming options, in partnership with Entertainment One (eOne), and secured the exclusive worldwide rights to the critically acclaimed film ‘Hi, Mom’ (outside mainland China) and award-winning independent films ‘Minari’ and ‘First Cow’.
Anuvu also says it was behind the technology that made Cathay Pacific the first airline in the world to offer ultra-high resolution 4K seatback IFE displays.
Throughout 2021 many airlines renewed their contracts with Anuvu, including United Airlines, Air New Zealand, Hawaiian Airlines, Gulf Air, Cathay Pacific, Vietnam Airlines, Flydubai and El Al, amongst others. The company also secured new IFE clients, including Breeze Airways, Air Belgium, Corsair, Asiana Airlines and Royal Brunei Airlines.
Anuvu also reports success in its maritime business, with “consistent customer growth and demand” across all verticals including the yacht, energy, government, ferry and cruise sectors. Specifically, in maritime entertainment, Anuvu saw sales growth for its MTN-TV product, which provides cruise lines with live global television and movie content, currently servicing over 200 ships worldwide. The team renewed its longstanding agreement with Royal Caribbean Group to provide its Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Silversea ships with premium content.
