VoIP services and broadband are going to get a boost from a new satellite that is about to go into orbit.

Originally the technology was due to be launched into space on a US built Falcon Nine rocket, but due to delays the technology will use the more expensive UK Hylas spacecraft.

The company behind the VoIP technology, Avanti Communications, has gained financial support to pay for the switch, especially with the demand for broadband and VoIP growing.

Avanti has recognised that the market was a lot bigger than they had originally thought and so a blue chip shareholder has got involved to bring the launch forward and ensure that it happens.

The UK Hylas satellite weighs nearly 3 tonnes and is going to bring broadband to the homes and businesses of over 350,000 customers across Europe.

The cost of the satellite means that the initial price of the broadband connections will be more expensive than regular broadband, but as demand rises, the cost should fall.