FAC hopes to correct broadband cards with more accurate data

In addition, the FCC is putting in place a process to gather public feedback on the accuracy of the cards from Internet access providers. This includes a crowdsourcing portal that will directly take into account feedback from customers and local governments. The proposals could also introduce "additional technical standards" for more accurate maps as well as mobile data collection and voice coverage.

The mapping command adds to the proposed rural digital proposal fund for $ 20.4 billion, which would aim to improve Internet access in areas of at least 4 million homes and households. small businesses do not have a "modern" broadband service. In theory, the fund would increase the number of areas eligible for support and would require a minimum of 25 Mbps, compared to 10 Mbps for the Connect America Fund. In some cases, rural residents could expect data "up to gigabit speeds". It would use a reverse auction to obtain competitive prices and adopt a two-part approach, which would start with unserved areas and use the new maps to improve coverage in partially serviced areas.

It is therefore not surprising that some of the FCC commissioners have been totally dissatisfied with one or the other of the measures. Jessica Rosenworcel and Geoffrey Starks opposed the FCC's proposed rural fund without the best cards in place. This does not guarantee that the money will be allocated right from the start. They also felt that improvements in the collection of map data do not go far enough, particularly with regard to price, transparency and accurate interpretation of data.

It does not matter if broadband is available if it is too expensive, for example. In addition, improved mapping may not mean anything if the data is impenetrable. And to date, the FCC definitions for coverage are lacking. For example, an entire block can be covered even if only one house is equipped with broadband. Although the FCC's measures should represent expected improvements, they will not necessarily solve the underlying problems that have persisted for years.