- Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) announces the Rural Broadband Initiative dedicated to making better broadband accessible to 2M underserved Americans by 2022.
- The five-year program will start with local telecom seed investments in 12 states, which offers a cheaper and more efficient route than building network infrastructure in the areas.
- Microsoft plans to utilize TV White Spaces spectrum, the unused portion of UHV television bands that can let wireless signals make it around geographical blockages like buildings or hills.
- White Spaces would reach 80% of the underserved rural customers, says Microsoft, while a combination of satellites, fixed wireless, and limited fiber could reach customers in the most remote areas.
- The Initiative will feature a follow-up digital skills training for residents of these rural communities to learn how to use the newly connected technology. The training will happen through a partnership with the National 4-H Council.
- Microsoft does face some government hurdles including the FCC needing to guarantee the continued availability of the spectrum and three unlicensed wireless channels in every market.
- Now read: Microsoft: Behind The 'Petya' Headlines Is A Solid Company
Original article