After years of delays, the Federal Communications Commission is ready to restart a $9 billion plan to expand 5G connectivity in rural America.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel today called on the commission to vote on proposed rule changes to distribute the $9 billion. If adopted at a future meeting, the rule would effectively “restart” the FCC’s 5G Fund for Rural America, which it established in 2020. However, the FCC decided to postpone the program, citing the need to update the official broadband map. Identify areas where you don’t have access to high-speed cell phone or internet service.
The FCC has since revised those maps and found that “more than 14 million homes and businesses lack mobile 5G coverage,” the commission announced today. Specifically, these areas are not receiving mobile download speeds of at least 7Mbps and at least 1Mbps. This is a very low bar considering that 5G networks typically deliver close to 200Mbps when coverage is strong.
The FCC’s broadband map is structured to show which areas can receive 5G connectivity at speeds of 7/1Mbps. (Credit: FCC)
“For the first time in our history of supporting wireless networks through the Universal Service System, this agency has comprehensive data on where service is and is not across the country,” Rosenworcel said. added.
The plan would distribute $9 billion to rural areas that don’t have access to 5G connectivity without subsidies. Telecommunications companies will be able to bid through multiple rounds of reverse auctions. Of this, $900 million will be used to incentivize successful bidders to deploy Open RAN technology in their resulting networks.
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The FCC further states, “To ensure that the Phase I auction reflects the most accurate data possible regarding areas requiring 5G service, parties must promptly submit objections through broadband data collection mechanisms, as appropriate. It is recommended that you file a complaint.”
The full text of the revised rules for the 5G Fund for Rural America has not yet been released. However, the FCC said the auction has been changed to require successful bidders to “implement a cybersecurity and supply chain risk management plan as a condition of receiving support.” Regulations were also amended to ensure that a portion of the fund supports tribal communities.
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