New Report Confirms Cable Broadband Is Deployed Equally Regardless of Income or Race
As the U.S. continues to push forward on the important task of expanding broadband availability to all Americans without discrimination, it is important to understand the current state of play and how broadband networks are deployed today. A new study by the Vernonburg Group released today shows what other studies and analyses have shown before—cable broadband networks are deployed equitably across a wide variety of demographics. Equitable broadband access across income levels, race Data shows that low-income areas have similar access to cable broadband service as their high-income
ACP Has Been Transformational for America
Unless Congress acts, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is set to run out of funds by May. When that happens, millions of Americans could lose their internet access and access to critical services like healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Why it matters: To date, the program has helped connect over 23 million Americans, a significant step forward in the nation’s mission to close the digital divide. Recently, the FCC surveyed program participants to understand the program’s impact. The full report can be found here. ACP connects those who need it the most Before ACP, 68% of
Lower Prices, More Choices: How American Consumers Benefit From the Competitive and Innovative Broadband Marketplace
In his State of the Union address to the nation tonight, President Biden will acknowledge that Americans are facing inflationary pressures when it comes to groceries, energy bills, and rent costs. One household staple, however, has notably bucked this trend: home internet service. Adjusted for inflation, consumers paid 7.8% less for broadband services in January than three years ago. Meanwhile, average broadband speeds have surged more than 40%. In fact, controlling for the exponential increase in speeds, the real cost-per-megabit for broadband service offerings has declined by roughly 80%
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.
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
Broadband Stats: Working to Extend Digital Inclusion
Expanding digital inclusion is a complex challenge that requires a suite of solutions. Digital literacy programs, technology donations, and affordable internet plans are some ways America’s cable broadband industry continues to work to solve this issue. The FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a federal subsidy, is also playing a key role in achieving this goal.
The Cable Industry's Ongoing Commitment to Digital Inclusion
Digital Inclusion Week, spearheaded by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure that all people have access to high-speed internet connectivity. In honor of the week, here are a few ways that the cable industry continually works towards bringing broadband access to as many people as possible through investments, buildouts, partnerships, community programs, and through its long-term commitment to digital inclusion for all. Expanding Infrastructure One of the primary ways cable providers contribute to digital inclusion is by continuously
The Impact of the Affordable Connectivity Program
The FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides a monthly subsidy to eligible, low-income households to connect to broadband service, has been instrumental in getting broadband to more American homes and to advancing digital equity. Here are a few ways that it’s making a difference in getting broadband to those people who need it most. ACP's Reach To date, ACP has helped connect more than 18 million households to the internet across all ages and across all 50 states. All major cable broadband providers, including Charter, Comcast, Cox, GCI, Mediacom, Midco, and Vyve all promote
Connecting America's Seniors
Older Americans Month is a time to honor the contributions and hard work of America's senior citizens, and while May wraps up today, the cable industry targets efforts to reach and engage this important population throughout every month of the year. Why It Matters Through broadband adoption programs, cable providers work to empower seniors with the means to connect, learn, access resources, and engage in various online activities that enhance their quality of life. These programs are crucial in reducing the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion among older adults. Broadband Adoption
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 —