Upcoming event
Fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology promises to deliver wonderous new capabilities ranging from smart cities, to smart factories, smart cars, and more. Moving from promise to reality will require those networks to be secure. The technology that enables 5G, however, brings with it two compounding cybersecurity challenges. First, the “virtualization” in software of network functions previously performed by hardware introduces the potential to hack that software.
Join AARP California for a conversation with experts on broadband access, also known as high speed internet access. During this virtual event you will learn key jargon and technology terms related to internet access, where the state currently is with internet access and where there are areas for improvement, and how you can take action in your community to help bring about digital equity.
Participants will learn about sources of free and deeply discounted broadband and devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) for low- and moderate-income users, and strategies for tapping them. We'll also consider inclusion-related apps that can be bundled with these devices and broadband access.
Moderator: Terry Lee, community affairs specialist, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Panelists
Telecommunications for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will discuss issues with key staff from the Federal Communications Commission's Disability Rights Office including the Affordable Connectivity Program, and updates on Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS). We will explain how to file a complaint, and learn more about FCC's Disability Advisory Committee. There will be time for Q/A.
The Broadband Data Task Force will hold a virtual technical assistance workshop to assist potential bulk filers in submitting their data.
To participate in the workshop, interested parties should register to attend at: https://fccgov.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_F37YX5hRQJCHrVmLZsnqAg. Questions about bulk fixed availability challenges may be submitted in advance of or during the workshop to BDCWebinar@fcc.gov.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Timeline for National High-Speed Internet Deployment
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration expects to communicate Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment allocation levels to eligible entities by June 30, 2023. The Biden-Harris Administration is required by law to allocate Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment funds according to a formula derived from the map data. NTIA coordinates closely with the FCC to ensure that this data is accurate and reliable and will continue to do so. NTIA’s efforts to date include:
FCC To Release New Broadband Maps On November 18
The Federal Communications Commission will unveil a pre-production draft of new broadband maps on November 18, 2022. This version is the first release of the map required by the Broadband DATA Act and will begin an ongoing, iterative process that will improve the data submitted by providers by incorporating challenges from individuals and other stakeholders. Broadband availability will be based on data submitted by providers during the initial Broadband Data Collection filing window and will reflect services available as of June 30, 2022.
A virtual field hearing to hear from a diverse range of stakeholders about the impact of Hurricanes Fiona and Ian on communications and the recovery effort.
The upcoming hearing, to be held as part of the FCC's November Open Meeting, will focus largely on coordination between the communications and power sectors in response to these disasters. The hearing will provide an opportunity to gather new information and lessons learned so that U.S. networks are better prepared for future storms like Tropical Storm Nicole. The FCC is monitoring the storm as it progresses.
The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB) will host a live webinar to discuss the Affordable Connectivity Outreach Grant Program (ACP Outreach Grant Program) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) that was released on Thursday, November 10, 2022. The ACP Outreach Grant Program seeks to expand diverse outreach efforts nationwide, strengthen partner networks by empowering them to mobilize people and organizations to help build program awareness, with the ultimate goal of increasing ACP enrollment.
Tech for good, evil and companionship at Web Summit
The future-of-tech conversations at Web Summit in Lisbon could have played on a split screen.