Broadband  

CTIA Position:
America’s wireless carriers offer multiple, unique service options to the vast majority of American consumers. Moreover, mobile wireless broadband providers are providing broadband service “to the person,” rather than confining the service to a single, fixed location.

American consumers are increasingly recognizing the freedom and convenience of mobile wireless broadband, and those numbers will only increase as carriers and manufacturers continue to invest billions of dollars annually in mobile wireless broadband infrastructure and the devices necessary to realize the benefits of continued wireless broadband innovation. The industry has already spent hundreds of billions of dollars to upgrade the capacity, speed, and coverage of networks supporting broadband deployment throughout the United States. This unprecedented level of investment reflects our shared commitment to deliver affordable state-of-the-art voice, data, and video services to America’s consumers. 

CTIA encourages legislative action that recognizes the unique and invaluable role wireless broadband—it’s anywhere, anytime availability—can play in providing all Americans with equal access to cutting-edge communications, and contributing to the economic growth of the country.

Wireless carriers will best deliver on this unparalleled potential with a stable regulatory environment that relies primarily on market forces and avoids government intrusion into new and evolving services.

Key Points:

• According to CostQuest Associates, Inc., over 92% of Americans have 3G Mobile Wireless Service where they live. 
  And continued investment in 3G by America’s wireless carriers brings the benefit of broadband competition for US wireless consumers.
• Unique Service Options Make Wireless Broadband Accessible to U.S. Consumers.
• Supporting Wireless Broadband through a Lifeline Type Universal Service Mechanism can Ensure Delivery of Broadband to All Americans.