The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has breathed new life into a stalled initiative aimed at extending 5G network coverage to America’s rural areas. The rejuvenated program, named the 5G Fund for Rural America, seeks to allocate $9 billion over the next decade to bring 5G connectivity to 14 million homes and businesses in regions currently overlooked by operators due to financial impracticalities.
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.
A recent report by the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) reveals that fiber internet has now reached over half of U.S. households, surpassing 51.5% of primary homes. The survey, conducted by RVA LLC Market Research and Consulting on behalf of FBA, highlights 2023 as a record-setting year for annual fiber-to-the-home growth, with network operators connecting an unprecedented nine million new homes.
T-Mobile’s steadfast dedication to Texas has led to unmatched 5G network coverage, cementing the Lone Star State’s connectivity footprint. Continual site enhancements and a robust expansion program showcase this commitment, with significant contributions to local communities through initiatives like ‘Homegrown Grants’ and the ambitious Project 10Million.
Unveiling the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) funds allocation, the Biden-Harris administration aims to bridge the digital divide. While each state proposes spending plans, concerns over potential delays in broadband deployment due to the Build America, Buy America Act emerge.
The US and India strengthen their strategic partnership, focusing on 6G research, Open RAN, and semiconductors, while collaborating on technology sharing, co-development, and co-production opportunities between industry, government, and academia.
In a strange turn of events, the American government has been instructed by President Trump, to help Chinese tech giant ZTE Corp. The problems started for ZTE when they were caught shipping U.S. goods to Iran. The U.S. Commerce Department then prevented U.S. companies from doing any trade with ZTE. This decision literally crippled the company, forcing Donald Trump to step in and take a decision. In a recent tweet President Trump expressed its concerns and his will to find a solution. https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/995680316458262533 The ban on doing trade with U.S. companies is supposed to last seven years. ZTE already paid a $1.2 billion in fine for that case. Recently, American delegations in visit in China were asked about this issue by Chinese officials, leading to Trump’s decision. ZTE currently employs 70,000 people, and earlier this month, it had to put on hold its main operations.
