AT&T implores industry to help close digital divide

While building out fiber, fixed and wireless services are key in bridging the digital divide, an AT&T executive stated there also needs to be a push to encourage the adoption of connectivity services. Jeff Luong, president of broadband access and adoption at AT&T, noted that the Federal Communications Commission's Affordable Connectivity Program provides US households with $30 a month for high-speed internet. In addition to federal funding, Luong stated there were billions of dollars available from state and local entities for broadband funding. While the wireless industry has the wherewithal to build networks, private entities also have a role to play. Combining federal funds with matching capital from the private sector “enables companies to economically build out their network to unserved and underserved locations," according to Luong. He noted AT&T is opening connected learning centers across the US to provide internet access and visual learning courses to students to improve their digital literacy.