Vodafone trials disaggregated broadband network gateways
A vocal proponent of Open RAN in wireless, Vodafone is now looking to apply the same principle of disaggregation to the broadband network gateway (BNG).
September 2021
FCC Proposes Update To E-Rate Rules To Promote Participation Of Tribal Libraries
The Federal Communications Commission proposed revisions to the definition of library in the E-Rate program rules to clarify that Tribal libraries are eligible to participate in the program. Some Tribal libraries have been unable to receive support from the program, which provides discounts on broadband services to schools and libraries, because they did not meet the outdated definition of a library in the FCC’s rules.
FCC Seeks Comment on How to Improve Communications Reliability During Disasters
The Federal Communications Commission launched a rulemaking proceeding to improve the reliability of communications networks and help ensure that the public can communicate when disasters strike. Disaster recovery efforts in the wireless industry are currently supported by the Wireless Network Resiliency Cooperative Framework, a voluntary industry agreement to promote resilient communications and situational awareness during disasters through roaming agreements, mutual aid, and other measures.
FCC Seeks Comment on Spectrum Requirements for the Internet of Things
The Federal Communications Commission seeks comment on issues related to spectrum for the Internet of Things, as directed by Congress in the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA).
FCC Seeks Comment on Promoting Public Safety Use of 4.9 GHz Band
The Federal Communications Commission took action to protect public safety operations in the 4.9 GHz spectrum band and to move towards establishment of a nationwide, coordinated framework that would emphasize public safety needs while increasing overall use of the band and putting public safety on a path to 5G. In 2002, the FCC designated the 4.9 GHz band for public safety operations. In October 2020, the FCC adopted a state-by-state leasing framework that would have allowed states to take this prime mid-band spectrum away from public safety.
Google Fiber TV is nearing the end
Google Fiber has been transitioning away from its traditional TV product toward virtual MVPD alternatives since 2020, and the shift is now almost complete. Liz Hsu, director of product strategy for Google Fiber, provided an update about retiring Fiber TV in all Google Fiber markets. Hsu said the company has completely upgraded Fiber TV customers in Nashville, Huntsville, Salt Lake City and Provo, while Raleigh-Durham, Charlotte and Irvine will finish their transitions by the end of September 2021. Austin and Atlanta will finish up by the end of November 2021.
FCC Requests 6 GHz Automated Frequency Coordination Proposals
To keep pace with increasing wireless connectivity demands, the Federal Communications Commission continuously examines spectrum needs and tries to ensure that our rules enable spectrum users to conduct their business and everyday activities. In adopting the 6 GHz Report and Order, the FCC expanded spectrum access for unlicensed devices to promote competition, innovation, and more widespread and robust connectivity. The new rules made broad swaths of the 6 GHz band (5.925–7.125 GHz) available for unlicensed broadband operations.
American Broadband gets growing with purchase of BNT Broadband fiber assets
Rural operator American Broadband purchased the fiber assets of Nebraska provider BNT Broadband as part of what executives characterized as an aggressive growth strategy. American Broadband and its family of brands (including Cameron Communications and TelAkaska), provide voice, video and broadband service to rural communities across Nebraska, Missouri, Alaska, Louisiana and Texas. Chief Strategy Officer Jim Patterson stated the operator currently passes just under 60,000 homes and has customer relationships with about 60 to 65 percent of those.
Leaving no one behind in our post-pandemic recovery: How can technology help?
The disruption caused by the pandemic and the resulting boost in innovation are opportunities to build a better future for everyone, to "do it right" this time. With the right policies, governments, the private sector and the international community have the power and the responsibility to shape a new technological era where no one is left behind. They should be guided by the following objectives: