October 2021
After growing up with limited access to technology, nonprofit founder wants to bridge digital gap for others
Nishal Mohan, founder and CEO of the tech nonprofit, Mohuman, wants to make technology more accessible and affordable for people in underserved communities. “I have lived experience on both sides of the digital divide, with a deep understanding of the complex systemic inequities perpetuating it, that go beyond devices and internet access. And I know how to fix it,” he says. “I want everyone to have an easier time than my family and I did, to succeed.
Robert Gallardo to assist with Indiana's Next Level Connections Broadband programs
The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) announced Purdue University's Roberto Gallardo will be assisting with the Next Level Connections Broadband Grant programs. In this role, Gallardo will be responsible for guiding the suite of rural broadband programs, including program delivery, compliance and reporting, trainings and policies, partnerships and fiscal integrity. Gallardo joins OCRA on a contractual basis and will continue to serve as the Director of the Purdue Center for Regional Development and a Purdue Extension Community & Regional Economics Specialist.
UScellular shuts off some 3G services as it upgrades LTE
UScellular is working on a multi-year effort to eventually sunset its CDMA 3G network, as the regional carrier upgrades parts of its network with additional LTE bandwidth and capabilities. The company stated that as part of the work, some 3G data services have been shut off, including in Missouri. Since 98 percent of UScellular’s traffic in Missouri is LTE, the company doesn’t expect many customers to be affected. UScellular did not disclose how many, or which other markets have already seen high-speed 3G data turned off.
How Verizon Became New Streaming Services' Secret Weapon for Scaling
In August 2021, AMC+ landed what has become every streaming service’s holy grail: a coveted Verizon partnership. As part of a deal between the two companies, certain customers of Verizon’s broadband and unlimited phone plans are entitled to a free year of the AMC Networks streamer, featuring ad-free programming across its entertainment networks and early access to original shows. The giveaway offered a major marketing boost to the streaming service, which aims to clear 9 million subscribers by the end of 2021.
FCC Begins Mid-Band Spectrum Auction
The Federal Communications Commission kicked off a mid-band spectrum auction to support next-generation wireless services – including 5G – in the 3.45 GHz band. Auction 110 will make available 100 megahertz of contiguous mid-band spectrum for commercial use in 2021. “We are moving with record speed and collaboration to free up more mid-band spectrum for 5G,” said FCC Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “These airwaves are a critical part of unlocking the 5G promise everywhere in the country." Bidding in the first phase of the auction, the clock phase, kicked off at 10 am EST.