C-SPAN Delivers Super Tuesday To New Audiences On New Platforms
In preparation for what promises to be a significant election year, C-SPAN has been rolling out new technology on the campaign trail and expanding to new platforms to reach all types of audiences. NCTA spoke with C-SPAN to learn more about how the network has digitally transformed itself behind the scenes to be a more engaging and innovative presence for new generations. The high-tech trail Earlier this year, NCTA spoke with C-SPAN Political Editor Nate Hurst about how the network has implemented new technology on the campaign trail. Bluetooth microphones and high-quality smartphone cameras
Decoding Bandwidth: Making Sense of Internet Speeds and Performance
Bandwidth is one of many components of a cable broadband network important to its operation and performance. It plays a pivotal role in delivering an optimal and seamless experience for users, and its availability is crucial for running today’s advanced streaming applications, downloading content, and meeting the ever-changing demands of users. What Is Bandwidth? Bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data a network can transfer in a given amount of time, or the difference between the lower and upper bands of a continuous band of frequencies. Essentially, it’s the ability of a network to
TV Stats: January Saw Highest Streaming Yet
TV entertainment can be accessed anytime, anywhere, and on almost any device. That’s a far cry from previous decades when most viewing happened around a TV set, often live for must-see shows. Today, audiences have many viewing options, a testament to innovation in the video programming marketplace and ubiquitous, powerful broadband networks. In fact, Nielsen recently reported that the first month of 2024 set records for streaming TV viewership.
America’s Expanding Broadband Networks Continue To Grow: The South Pt. 3
As America targets efforts towards connecting every community to robust broadband – including the distribution of more than $40 billion in federal funds for building new networks – cable providers continue to do what they have always done: build out their networks to reach as many Americans as possible. With network expansions continuing to happen nationwide, here are a few more examples of projects that work towards the national goal of connecting every American. To learn about other projects highlighted in previous blogs, be sure to check out NCTA.com. Louisiana In Livingston Parish, Charter
“Diarra From Detroit” Signals BET Studio’s Entrée to Scripted TV
BET Studios is debuting its first-ever scripted series “Diarra from Detroit,” marking a new creative pivot from the studio and network. After a freshly divorced schoolteacher, Diarra, goes on a Tinder date with the man of her dreams, his sudden disappearance sends her on an investigation that leads her through the Detroit underworld. From executive producers Diarra Kilpatrick (who also stars in the lead role) and Kenya Barris (“Black-ish”), the comedy-drama series is set to premiere on March 21 on BET+. The plot thickens: The show follows Diarra as she and her reluctant friends work to solve
TV Networks Are Spotlighting Black Culture and History
As February unfolds, so does the celebration of Black History Month—a time to reflect, honor, and amplify the stories and contributions of the Black community throughout history. Cable TV networks play a pivotal role in bringing these narratives to the forefront, offering a platform to showcase the richness, diversity, and resilience of the Black experience. Cable TV networks have been instrumental in ensuring that these narratives receive the attention they deserve, reaching a wide audience and fostering a greater understanding of the Black experience. Here are just a handful of networks that
Saving Millions Monthly: How Consumers Are Benefitting From New Competition for Wireless Mobile Services
Consumer appetite for connectivity is continually growing. With more devices and ways to connect, new solutions are required to get people and their devices online. That is why in recent years, cable broadband providers have expanded their offerings to include mobile service, giving Americans more choices for their cell providers than ever before and saving them millions monthly when switching from higher-priced plans offered by traditional phone companies. How it works: Cable providers use a combination of technologies to transmit mobile data utilizing both licensed and unlicensed spectrum
Broadband Stats: Connecting Every American
Closing the digital divide is a complex task that goes far beyond extending broadband service. Cost and digital literacy are key to successful adoption and to making the most of a connection. For years, cable ISPs have offered low-cost broadband adoption programs available to families who qualify for free or reduced school lunches, as well as veterans, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly. In addition to these programs, cable ISPs also often donate devices and offer digital literacy programs to help the previously unconnected take full advantage of their new connection.
Cox Connects the Big Game
This weekend, hundreds of thousands of visitors will descend upon Las Vegas for the big game. To support this massive influx of people for what usually is the most-watched television event of the year, Cox Communications is providing free access to its extensive virtual Wi-Fi hotspot network in the Las Vegas metro area from February 1 through February 12, as well as powering the connections within Allegiant Stadium. The free connectivity will facilitate the flurry of communications sure to take place this weekend, with everybody from celebrities to out-of-town game-goers to stadium workers
The Affordable Connectivity Program Needs a Lifeline
Today brings unfortunate news. Because of dwindling funds in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), the FCC has directed ISPs to stop accepting new customers under the program. It means that, for the moment, households otherwise eligible for ACP will be unable to sign up for the program. And, if Congress fails to appropriate new funds, the program will collapse possibly causing millions of families to lose broadband service they have come to rely on. We continue to be optimistic that Congress can still throw this valuable program a lifeline. ACP’s impact: This program has been wildly