Google said to reach agreement with cuba for expanded service

Google is planning to expand its services in Cuba through a deal with the island’s government, according to a person familiar with the matter.

The Associated Press earlier reported the deal with the Cuban government.

Under the terms, Cuba would have access to the Google Global Cache, a network of servers that accelerates internet speeds for Google products, like search and YouTube, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the plans haven’t been announced. The initiative was driven by a unit of Google called Next Billion Users whose purpose is to spread its services in developing countries. Eric Schmidt, chairman of Google parent Alphabet Inc., is expected to sign the deal next week in Havana, the person said.

Google opened a technology center in the capital city earlier this year as part of a White House initiative to expand internet access to Cuba.

A Google representative didn’t return a request for comment.