In a significant development, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has released updated guidelines for the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The revised framework, known as Uniform Guidance, outlines rules and requirements for federal financial assistance awards and subawards, aiming to enhance the efficiency of the grant management process.
House Republicans are seeking clarity from the NTIA on its stance on Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program initial proposals, pertaining to potential rate regulations. They argue such regulations may contravene the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) directives. Amid rising concerns, Louisiana becomes the first state to have its BEAD program approved.
Ofcom’s annual report, “Connected Nations,” provides a comprehensive update on the state of broadband and mobile services in the UK. The report reveals a noteworthy advancement, indicating that 78% of the UK now enjoys gigabit-capable broadband, marking an 8% surge from the previous year’s 70% coverage.
Viasat, Inc., a global front-runner in satellite communications, has launched its innovative Business Choice internet service plans, ushering in a new era of high-speed and reliable connectivity for small-to-medium businesses nationwide. These plans cater to businesses in the most remote areas, where traditional internet services fall short, enabling them to leverage essential digital tools for optimal operations.
In the third quarter of 2023, Ookla Speedtest Intelligence data reveals a robust global uptrend in fixed network speeds. The median download speed for fixed networks worldwide reached an impressive 83.95 Mbps, marking a substantial 19% increase from 70.3 Mbps in the same quarter of 2022.
Broadband users face the most disruptions during peak hours, particularly at 11 am on Fridays or Wednesdays, according to a recent survey. The study pinpointed additional vulnerable time slots between 6 pm and 9 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm, and 10 am. The primary culprit for disconnections, as reported by users, is broadband provider outages, accounting for a majority of the incidents. Other contributors include power cuts (42%), planned maintenance to external cables (18%), and router issues (17%).
Several prominent German telecoms associations, including ANGA, Bitkom, BREKO, BUGLAS, and VATM, have united in a call to the German government, urging a reduction in funding for fibre-optic projects. Citing concerns over the overwhelming response to the German Gigabit funding program, the associations propose a cut in funding to €1 billion between 2024-2026.
In a swift response to Tuesday’s widespread cyber-attack, Kyivstar, the Ukrainian subsidiary of global digital operator VEON Ltd., has successfully restored mobile internet services nationwide, encompassing all communication standards, including 4G. International roaming services have also been reinstated within the past 24 hours, marking a significant recovery effort.
EPB, the city-owned broadband provider, has launched a new 2.5-gig residential internet service, expanding its symmetrical speed offerings on the fiber optic network. Priced at $97.99 per month, the 2.5-gig service comes with the installation of EPB’s Wi-Fi 6e router and is available across the service area. VP Katie Espeseth emphasized EPB’s commitment to diversifying network options, with an eye on providing service up to 25-gig.
The Idaho Broadband Advisory Board (IBAB) has approved the allocation of $120 million from the Idaho Capital Projects Fund to support 18 broadband initiatives, providing a significant boost to over 30,000 homes and businesses across the state. In collaboration with the state government, the advisory board strategically targeted projects to enhance crucial areas including distance learning, telehealth, telework, economic development, and public safety.
