lipflip – The FCC plans to remove its long-term goal of defining high-speed internet as 1,000 Mbps download and 500 Mbps upload. Instead, the commission wants to keep the current benchmark of 100 Mbps download and 25 Mbps upload. This proposal comes from Republican Chair Brendan Carr and will be voted on at the FCC’s August 7 meeting.
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The higher speed goal was first introduced in late 2023 to push the US toward faster broadband access. Supporters argued it would encourage wider fiber network adoption, which can deliver gigabit speeds and beyond. However, the FCC now claims that the Telecommunications Act of 1996 does not mandate any specific speed goals.
The agency cites Section 706 of the Act, which requires it to promote advanced communication services but does not explicitly mention speed benchmarks. The FCC’s new proposal says setting a 1Gbps goal might unfairly favor fiber technology over other broadband options. The commission emphasizes its commitment to technological neutrality and avoiding “picking winners and losers” in the market.
Other broadband technologies, like satellite internet services such as SpaceX’s Starlink and fixed wireless networks like T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet, currently offer speeds below 1Gbps. The FCC notes that these alternatives still provide fast, affordable internet without the high costs of fiber installation.
The proposal suggests that a 1Gbps speed goal could disadvantage these emerging technologies. Which might slow their development or limit funding opportunities. Instead, the FCC plans to keep monitoring advances in technology and changes in consumer preferences before adjusting speed benchmarks or funding programs.
This shift mirrors changes to the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. The Biden administration initially aimed to focus BEAD funds mainly on fiber deployment. However, the White House recently revised the program to support “technology neutrality,” allowing satellite and wireless internet projects to receive more funding.
Implications for Broadband Access and the Future of Speed Standards
The FCC’s proposal focuses on evaluating broadband availability rather than setting specific speed targets. This raises questions about how the agency will address the cost barriers that often prevent consumers from accessing high-speed internet.
The commission is asking the public to comment on whether the 1Gbps benchmark remains a useful long-term goal. The outcome of this inquiry will influence future broadband policies and funding decisions.
Critics warn that removing the 1Gbps goal could slow the push for fiber networks. Which offer the fastest and most reliable internet service. Fiber’s capability to deliver symmetrical gigabit speeds is critical for growing demands in streaming, gaming, telehealth, and remote work.
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On the other hand, proponents of the proposal argue that emphasizing one speed metric ignores the diversity of internet technologies serving different communities. Satellite and fixed wireless can reach rural and underserved areas faster and cheaper than fiber, even if speeds are lower.
The FCC’s emphasis on technological neutrality seeks to balance these competing interests. It plans to adapt benchmarks and support programs based on technological developments and consumer needs rather than fixed speed numbers.
As the FCC prepares for its vote, stakeholders across the industry and public will closely watch the decision’s impact. The choice could redefine what “high-speed broadband” means in the US and shape how billions of dollars in infrastructure funds are allocated.
This debate highlights the evolving nature of broadband policy and the challenges of ensuring equitable, affordable, and fast internet access for all Americans. The FCC’s approach will likely set the tone for future broadband development and investment strategies nationwide.