Reforming the ReConnect Program to Reach All of Rural America
With numerous programs and unprecedented funding now focused on building broadband networks in unconnected rural American communities, it is more important than ever that our collective efforts demand efficiency and coordination in delivering broadband dollars to those areas that need the most support. This is why this week’s Senate Agriculture Committee hearing is so important, and recent legislation – The Rural Internet Improvement Act that reforms the USDA Reconnect Program – should be acted on swiftly to require more efficient use of government resources and to promote greater coordination
How CBRS Is a Model for Spectrum Management
As digital habits continue to change and adapt to new realities, consumers are using more wireless devices. This growth means there is a need to ensure access to ample wireless spectrum to power these emerging technologies. As policymakers consider how to squeeze more spectrum from an already crowded spectral landscape, new and innovative solutions can enable more efficient use of the finite amount of wireless spectrum available. One such solution lies in the band of spectrum known as Citizens Broadband Radio Service, or CBRS. What Is CBRS? CBRS refers to an innovative spectrum-sharing regime
Warner Bros. Discovery Helps Students 'Say Yes to the Prom'
Prom season is underway, and what does Warner Bros. Discovery have to do with those glitzy gowns and tuxedos? A lot! Now in its 11th year, SAY YES TO THE PROM, an event that plays off of the TLC network's "Say Yes To The Dress," was first started by Warner Bros. Discovery to help students afford to go to their proms through dress donation drives. But fast forward to 2023, and today it is so much more. Cable TV networks are always looking for opportunities to support socially responsible initiatives to better communities nationwide, and SAY YES TO THE PROM has become one of those staple events
Realigning Government Support Programs to Bring Broadband to All
The job of connecting every American to robust broadband service is a daunting task. It takes a combination of broadband providers building out networks in every state, including in rural and hard-to-reach areas, using private capital investments. Public-private partnerships that maximize the funding available for connecting remote areas is also critical. But with a historic amount of federal funds now allocated for achieving universal connectivity – over $165 billion going towards building ‘futureproof’ broadband networks to unserved and underserved areas and to support broadband adoption —
Broadband Stats: 10G’s Economic Boost
10G, the broadband network soon delivering superfast symmetrical internet speeds, has the potential to transform the American economy, powering the “Fourth Industrial Revolution” that will enable creators to develop life-changing technologies.
Disney's 'American Born Chinese' Puts a New Spin on the Immigrant Child Experience
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is about recognizing the culture, heritage, and contributions of this rich demographic, and cable TV networks are continuing to do their part to celebrate diversity through storytelling and to increase representation on screen. One upcoming show that is already making headlines and that seeks to honor, elevate, and shine a light on this traditionally underrepresented group of people is Disney's "American Born Chinese." Bringing a Unique Story to the Screen Based on the graphic novel by Gene Luen Yang (who also works on the show), the coming-of
How Does Broadband Enable Rural Communities to Thrive?
Cable's broadband networks are delivering high-speed broadband connectivity to every corner of America, and this includes rural and hard-to-reach areas on the map. As they continue to build out infrastructure to reach as many Americans as possible, and with a myriad of broadband deployment projects and federal funds on the horizon, it's important to hear from the broadband leaders on the ground to better understand why broadband access for rural areas is so critical. Insights From an American Broadband Leader: In a Q&A with NCTA, Ben Dold, Midco's Chief Operating Officer, shared his thoughts
The 10G Future: Entertainment
10G, the broadband network soon delivering superfast symmetrical internet speeds, has the potential to transform how we live, work, learn and play. Exciting advancements mean that entertainment technologies once the stuff of science fiction are now coming to reality, like holograms and virtual reality. NCTA partnered with the Future Today Institute (FTI), experts in researching trends and calculating how they will disrupt business, government and society, to imagine what some cutting-edge changes might look like with 10G. The resulting report honed in on four areas: entertainment, healthcare
Broadband Stats: Wi-Fi Loves Smart Homes
Constant connectivity and smart devices have transformed the American home. Robust and reliable broadband networks that deliver gigabit Wi-Fi speeds are powering these digital hubs.
Hollywood Creative Forum Is 'Staying Focused' on Diversity and Inclusion
This week, studio network executives, writers, directors, producers, and TV content creators are gathered in West Hollywood for the Hollywood Creative Forum (HCF) to share inclusion strategies and to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work throughout the changing media and entertainment landscape. What Is HCF? Produced by the Walter Kaitz Foundation—which raises funds through its robust grants program for initiatives and organizations dedicated to DEI—the HCF is over 10 years old and is a networking experience designed to help diverse creatives and creators get a break in the