October 2022

Fixed wireless access a ‘nice complement’ to fiber

Nokia has been pushing hard on the fiber front, unveiling a new platform that will eventually support 100G capabilities. But President of Network Infrastructure Federico Guillén said that fixed wireless access is a key tool in the toolbox for areas where fiber may not reach. “Let’s face it. Fiber is going to reach 50%, 60%, 70% of the population with time.

Washington Public Works Board invites public input on changes to broadband funding program

The Washington State Public Works Board (PWB) is seeking public participation to help identify and prioritize issues that stakeholders believe should be addressed in the Board’s broadband funding program as a result of changes made to the program by the 2022 State Legislature. Input from two public workshops in November and a public hearing session in December will also help guide implementation.

Rich conservatives fund new media universe

Many of the new, conservative apps haven't grown to the point where they can meaningfully rival companies like TikTok or Instagram, but collectively, they have begun to create a new environment for conservative voices. A new Pew Research Center study found that 15% of users of alternative social networks like Getty, Telegram, and Truth Social have been banned from at least one mainstream platform. In August 2022, following the FBI's execution of a search warrant at Mar-a-Lago, downloads across 10 alternative apps hit nearly 1 million collectively.

Comcast Affirms Commitment To Affordable Internet Program

From an unnamed Comcast public relations officer: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) program is an important opportunity to connect more Americans to broadband than ever before and to close the digital divide, and we’ve been working hard to get the word out locally. The programs were implemented with incredible speed by both the government and private companies, and while some bumps in the road were expected, we are working to address issues as soon as possible. We have worked consistently to simplify the processes for consumers while keeping the proper checks and balances in place.

Tapping Internet Discounts For Lower-Income Households

Comcast’s entry-level internet service was not fast enough for Lia Moniz’s two schoolkids, so she upgraded to a faster connection that costs her more than $80 a month. A new Comcast offer, Internet Essentials Plus (IEP), has the potential to make Moniz’s internet free. IEP has the most bang for the buck. It offers speeds up to 100 megabits per second downstream and 10 megabits up, with free cable modem and Wi-Fi hot spot rental, for $29.95 a month. This is covered by the $30 Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit, so on the bottom line, it’s free.