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FCC removes gigabit broadband target from deployment report, calling it not technologically neutral
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The FCC abolished its long-term 1,000/500 Mbps broadband speed goal, arguing it was not technologically neutral and could disadvantage slower technologies like satellite and fixed wireless.
With the gigabit guidepost gone and current deployment deemed acceptable, the regulatory ceiling for US broadband ambition drops to the 100Mbps/20Mbps benchmark set in 2024. This reshapes how the FCC will evaluate whether broadband deployment is reasonable and timely, and removes a mechanism that could have pressured investment in higher-capacity networks.
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The FCC finalized elimination of the 1,000/500 Mbps long-term goal on August 14 in its broadband deployment report mandated by Section 706 of the Telecommunications Act.
The current benchmark remains 100Mbps downstream and 20Mbps upstream, and the FCC declared current broadband deployment levels acceptable.
Cable group NCTA and wireless group CTIA supported the abolition, while the FCC argued the goal could be unreasonably prejudicial to satellite and fixed wireless technologies.
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