In January 2024, Google announced the plans for the central Pacific Connect Initiative, which will deliver two new intra-Pacific cables – Bulikula and Halaihai – in collaboration with Amalgamated Telecom Holdings (ATH), AP Telecom, and Telstra to increase digital connectivity in the central Pacific.

Bulikula will connect Guam with Fiji whereas Halaihai will link Guam and French Polynesia. This project builds on the South Pacific Connect Initiative and will create a ring between Guam, French Polynesia and Fiji. Once operational, Bulikula and Halaihai will join Guam’s existing subsea cable portfolio — which includes Apricot, Echo, and Taiwan-Philippines-U.S. — accelerating the island’s position as a growing gateway for international connectivity.