The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Programme (TBCP), funded primarily by President Biden’s Internet for All Initiative, has recently bestowed $3.5 million in grants among seven Tribal entities to accelerate internet access in these areas. Supported with an impressive $3 billion budget, the TBCP aims to reduce internet barriers and bridge the digital divide, promising a transformative effect. The initiative is facilitating internet connectivity for remote learning, boosting telehealth services, fostering employment opportunities, and more.
In the short span since 5G’s inception, one of its most successful applications surprisingly isn’t smartphones, but Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) enhancing home broadband services. Currently dominating 90% of new US broadband subscriptions, this trend sparks intriguing implications. Yet, fiber broadband’s speed and dependability present a formidable challenge, set to increasingly permeate the market aided by ample public funding. Meanwhile, FWA’s flexible and user-friendly nature makes it a robust contender, particularly in areas where fiber is not feasible.
Telefónica has reportedly reached out to Vodafone, initiating dialogue for potential collaborations involving their Spanish broadband networks. The proposition offers a range of possibilities such as forming a strategic alliance, a wholesale agreement, or possibly integrating Vodafone’s clientele into Telefónica’s fiber network. This outreach is suspected to be a reaction to Vodafone’s recent strategic review and a potential sale of their Spanish unit.
ITIF urges a reevaluation of U.S. broadband programs in favor of the significant Affordable Connectivity Programme (ACP), aiming to give low-income households internet access. Predictions show funds will be depleted by 2024, necessitating a yearly investment between $5-$6 billion, potentially sourced from outdated programs. Despite appearing feasible, the report warns digital divide issues require more than funding, including digital literacy initiatives. Unveil the evolving connectivity panorama in our upcoming Connected America conference.
Dell’ Oro Group has adjusted its predictions for the global Open RAN market share, a decision marking a first for the research company. They stress the necessary transformation in the RAN market will be far from smooth, while also affirming Open RAN’s permanence. Europe demonstrates a cautious approach, leaning more towards traditional RAN in 5G setups. Past bullish forecasts have not dramatically influenced the industry, prompting RAN providers to investigate alternative avenues with brownfield operators. Despite minor signs of rapid progression, Open RAN’s maturity in this field remains uncertain.
Vodafone UK announces more accessible and fixed-rate wireless options amid the routine living costs in the UK, further bolstering its reputation as a company committed to social tariffs. This latest offering serves as a beacon of hope for families under financial strain, with an impressive broadband speed, zero installation fees, and an escape clause without extra charges. However, critics caution that this may not be the most affordable deal available, despite being from a mainstream provider.
Taking a bold stride in data transfer innovation, the IEEE has sanctioned the 802.11bb standard, also known as LiFi. This game-changing technology uses light waves instead of radio frequencies, virtually turning an LED lightbulb into a data transmission hub. While promising high bandwidth and added security, LiFi does require line-of-sight connections, which may limit its practical applications. Industry leaders see this as more of an adjunct technology to WiFi rather than a direct competitor.
Fibre builder Wildanet’s expansion into the Devon region could fuel an estimated economic surge of £1 billion by 2030, primarily through Gigabit-capable broadband, according to a new Curia report. This ambitious outlook, however, hinges on universal access to Gigabit broadband by 2030, a significantly higher benchmark than Wildanet’s initial target of reaching 25,000 premises. The firm’s dedication to end the digital disparity in rural Devon is so far supported by over 60,000 wireless connections, and plans to add 50,000 more by 2023. Meanwhile, additional funds from Gresham House could expedite the broadband rollout, making digital inclusion a tangible reality, even in the most remote locations. Despite this, digital desolation persists, with nearly 78,000 Devon inhabitants having never experienced internet access.
Dive into the world of high-speed internet connectivity with over 500,000 premises now experiencing 10Gbps speeds using XGS PON fibre infrastructure and welcome news of future expansion plans. A remarkable achievement for Netomnia, this latest success marks just the beginning of their journey towards connecting one million homes by 2024. Central to these ambitions is the goal to cater to underserved rural and less-resourced sectors, revolutionising connection experiences across the UK.
UK-based CityFibre has acquired a significant £318 million in public funding, aiming to increase high-speed broadband access nationwide. Supported by the government’s Project Gigabit, funds were awarded for bring fibre connectivity to selected regions needing better broadband access. A challenging and expensive task, especially in rural areas, but this initiative could shine a beacon of connected hope. Is the government’s £5 billion goal achievable? Read on to explore the potential impact of this massive contribution to rural telecommunications.