Wireless in Rural America - Bridging the Digital Divide
From Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon… over the vast expanses of Alaska to the incomparable surf of Hawaii…wireless companies of all sizes are offering personalized,innovative and affordable wireless communications services and devices to more than 220 million Americans. Wireless is providing unparalleled communication opportunities, and is uniquely bridging the so-called “digital divide” in rural America. The accessibility and affordability of those services continues to grow, as 99% of Americans are now living in counties where next generation wireless services are available. That means cutting-edge technology and the tremendous benefits that come with it—greater productivity, efficiency, mobility, and security—are within reach of nearly every American.
Wireless Provides Freedom, Choice and Mobility
Once considered a luxury item exclusively for urban business executives,wireless is proving to be broadly popular with consumers throughout the country. These days more than 220 million U.S. subscribers are using their mobile devices to email, text message, webbrowse, take pictures and video, listen to music, play games…and yes, perhaps to talk a little, too. And consumers have carriers lining up for their business. In September 2006, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reported that 98% of Americans live in counties served by three or more wireless carriers, while 94% live in counties with four or more providers. This level of robust competition is a hallmark of the wireless industry.
The Commission has also repeatedly found that wireless carriers are competing effectively in rural as well as urban markets, and consumers in rural areas apparently like the benefits wireless provides them. The most recent federal government statistics on wireless use indicated more than 51% of rural American households had wireless phones, compared to 54% of all American households.
Choice means more than just which company you select for service. Consumers may also choose from a vast array of wireless service plans to best fit their needs. In many markets, they can choose from among 100 service plans offering a host of features and different pricing options, from prepaid plans to “big bucket” plans. Carriers of all sizes are offering innovative regional and nationwide calling plans extending well beyond their license areas. For example, in the past year, both
Alaska Communications Systems and Dobson Communications Corporation, which markets under its Cellular One brand name, launched in-state wireless calling plans, with no roaming or toll charges.
Rescued from Alaskan Waters
On a cold Dec. day in Southeast Alaska, 19-year-old Thomas Josephson, 20-year old Nick Orsi, and 18-year-old Carl Lundquist fell into frigid waters after two waves suddenly swamped their boat. All three were wearing life jackets; Orsi was carrying his Alaska communications Systems cell phone in a zipper-type plastic food bag inside his hunting jacket. Orsi’s hands were too numb to work the device, so Josephson managed to secure the phone and dial for help. While remaining on the line with the Coast Guard and battling the effects of hypothermia, Josephson successfully guided the rescue boat to their position. It’s estimated the young men were in the water for 30 minutes and probably would not have survived without the wireless device.
- Download the
verison here.