Kat Dixon’s Post

Is the market failing? Why internet access must be affordable for everyone 📉 In my new blog, I set out our belief at Careful Trouble (Careful Industries and Promising Trouble) that internet access is an essential utility, and it should be delivered and regulated as such. Current attempts to deliver affordable broadband and internet access are not working. We've seen dire social-tariff takeup and we're expecting yet another round of inflation-busting price rises from most of the major providers. Ofcom is currently consulting on a long overdue plan to ban these inflation-linked mid-contract price rises. This is welcome, but does not go far enough. And we have just seen yet another delay from industry in the implementation of their switching service, One Touch Switch, which will miss its *new* deadline of March 2024. Given its importance in day-to-day life, internet access must be available at an affordable rate for everyone. –– 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eFxyNz4p

With the defunding of the Affordable Connectivity Program, the cost of broadband internet is going to be a big factor to many households around the country. We recently surveyed 2500 people around the US about the cost, reliability and satisfaction of their internet service. Here are the results. Big thanks to Sarah Pike and Erica Beimesche for making this happen. https://lnkd.in/gT8CQnTM

In an era where connectivity is essential, consumers are facing a hidden battle on their broadband bills. Lurking beneath advertised rates, some argue, "junk fees" have silently inflated costs and eroded trust. This panel will unravel the complex story of how these fees are impacting affordable connectivity and distorting market competition. From the White House to state legislatures, efforts are underway to combat these practices. Join us as we explore broadband pricing, transparency, and affordable internet connectivity. https://lnkd.in/gwrGu9BM

In late 2023, U.S. News & World Report surveyed 2,500 Americans about their internet bill costs over time, their internet service reliability, and how satisfied they are with the internet service they get for their money.  Americans’ Internet Bill Costs and Trends #broadband #serviceprovider #internet #gigabit https://lnkd.in/gJ6DcXrb

With the Affordable Connectivity Program coming to an end, it’s a crucial time to discuss how we can maintain the momentum in providing internet access for all. https://lnkd.in/g9av9iZ2 #SustainableConnectivity #AccessForAll. #InternetAccess #ConnectivityFuture

Should internet access be a basic human right?... The US’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on Saturday after Congress failed to renew funding. The ACP has helped millions of low-income families in the US receive internet service at reduced prices since 2022. But, Congress only funded the program once, which has now expired, despite pleas from President Biden and the FCC for additional support. Over 20 million low-income Americans depended on the program for 2.5 years, offering participants discounts of up to US$30 per month ($75 in tribal areas). Some participating providers either lowered their basic service tiers to $30 a month or increased the speeds of existing affordable plans. The ultimate aim was to make internet access available for no more than $30 a month at 100Mbps, which the FCC recently defined as the minimum classification of broadband. However, the program faced criticism, with some members of congress claiming many participating households already had internet service. The FCC disputed the claims, stating that 77% of the 23 million households receiving ACP funds would need to either reduce or cut service after losing assistance. In May 2024, the final month of funding, the credit was reduced to $14 for the month. The Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, introduced in January with bipartisan support, aims to provide additional funding for the ACP but would not support it permanently. Some ISPs covering 10 million eligible households are maintaining low-cost offers voluntarily through the end of 2024. Additionally, some households qualify for Lifeline, a permanently funded federal program providing a $9.25 monthly credit. In today’s world, should internet access be a basic human right?... Daily #electronics from Asia insights – follow me, Keesjan, and never miss a post by ringing my 🔔. #technology #innovation

The question of broadband affordability is often clouded by misconceptions, with many discussions overlooking key data points regarding internet pricing and household spending. Check out what the data actually reveals: https://lnkd.in/gMkJsRdN

In an era where every dollar counts for families nationwide, the forthcoming price hikes in internet and wireless services for an estimated 23 million consumers signal a pressing need to reassess our financial strategies. With budgets already stretched thin, the impending increases pose a significant challenge. However, amidst this financial pressure lies an opportunity for strategic saving through an often-overlooked option: MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators). MVNOs present a compelling alternative by offering the same quality service as traditional carriers but at a fraction of the cost. The prospect of switching might seem daunting, but the process is straightforward, and the potential savings are substantial. In an environment where every financial decision carries weight, exploring such alternatives isn't just prudent; it's necessary. The looming question remains: How much could your family save by making this switch, and more importantly, how could those savings impact your life? The implications are far-reaching, from bolstering your savings to providing additional leisure or educational experiences for your family. The current climate calls for innovative approaches to managing our finances, and MVNOs represent a smart, adaptable response to an ever-changing economic landscape. #MVNO #wirelessservices #budgetmanagement #economicchallenges

U.S. News and World Report recently published the results of their new broadband survey, which focused on broadband pricing and reliability. Conducted nationwide with a sample size of 2,500 respondents, the survey asked participants about their broadband costs, service reliability, and overall satisfaction with their internet service provider. Stay informed about the latest findings in broadband and how they impact you. https://lnkd.in/eQJjyjPy

Discover why affordable internet doesn’t mean compromising on quality in this insightful blog from Cheap Internet Service Provider JNA. Explore a range of budget-friendly options that deliver reliable speed and performance for every need. Whether you're a light browser or heavy streamer, find the perfect plan without breaking the bank.