Much of the developed world has a rural broadband problem, and Microsoft is looking to solve the issue in the United States by 2022. At the Media Institute in Washington, DC, Microsoft's President and Chief Legal Officer Brad Smith announced the company's new strategy to guarantee high-speed wireless broadband service to 2 million underserved Americans.
People living in large cities take broadband for granted, but the infrastructure is still relatively new compared to something like telecommunications lines. As such, many rural and sparsely populated areas lack access. It might seem frivolous, amounting to little more than a conduit for YouTube videos, but in the modern era, broadband access is essential for participating in many of the basic aspects of society.
Microsoft will begin its strategy with a series of 12 pilot projects in 12 states throughout the US.
Rural Broadband Strategies
Microsoft is Looking to Guarantee Broadband for Underserved Areas
Trend Themes
1. Rural Broadband Expansion - Opportunity for companies to develop innovative solutions and technologies to expand broadband access in rural and underserved areas.
2. High-speed Wireless Technology - Potential for advancements in high-speed wireless technology to provide reliable broadband service in remote locations.
3. Digital Inclusion Initiatives - Growth of initiatives and programs focused on bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to broadband connectivity for all communities.
Industry Implications
1. Telecommunications - Opportunity for telecommunication companies to invest in infrastructure development and expand their broadband coverage in rural areas.
2. Technology - Tech companies can explore disruptive technologies and solutions to improve broadband connectivity and address the rural broadband gap.
3. Public Policy/government - Government entities can play a significant role in funding and implementing initiatives that aim to provide broadband access to underserved areas.