The Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology has transformed internet access in the United States, enabling both mobile network providers and wired ISPs to enter and compete in the broadband market. This innovative technology bridges the digital divide, especially in remote areas where laying fiber optic cables is not feasible.
Leading the development of FWA technology are major mobile service providers such as T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, and UScellular. Currently, T-Mobile holds the largest market share, closely followed by Verizon. AT&T recently launched its own FWA service, AT&T Internet Air, further intensifying the competition.
According to Ookla speed test data, both T-Mobile and Verizon maintain high FWA performance at the national level, achieving similar download speeds in the third quarter of 2023. However, performance varies significantly at the state, city, and rural levels.
Existing cable and DSL subscribers, who make up the majority of T-Mobile and Verizon’s customer base, show the most interest in FWA technology. However, T-Mobile is also experiencing some customer loss to cable providers, especially in rural areas. Customer data analysis reveals that dissatisfaction among customers is due to lower download speeds before switching operators.
To further strengthen FWA technology, additional C-band spectrum is planned to be released and deployed by national mobile network operators. This will improve performance and create even greater competitive pressure in 2024.
FWA services offered by T-Mobile and Verizon have experienced dynamic growth over the past three years, supported by innovative pricing strategies and ease of installation. The number of new subscriptions continues to rise, and T-Mobile offers its FWA plan for $50 per month, with a discount of up to $30 per month for customers who subscribe to the Magenta MAX mobile plan. Verizon’s FWA service is slightly more expensive at $60 per month but lowers to $35 per month with selected 5G mobile plans. AT&T has also updated its FWA strategy by introducing the AT&T Internet Air service, offering similar pricing options.
Both T-Mobile and Verizon manage the onboarding process for new FWA customers to maintain performance for both mobile and FWA users. The release and deployment of additional C-band spectrum will provide additional capacity and potential performance enhancements, with T-Mobile already testing 5G Standalone mmWave for future use in FWA technology.
Although FWA performance is lower compared to major cable and fiber optic ISP providers, it still attracts cable and DSL provider subscribers. The aggressive pricing strategies of FWA providers have forced other ISPs to introduce competitive packages, resulting in overall price reductions in the market.
In conclusion, FWA technology has transformed internet access in the United States, enabling easier market entry, competition, bridging the digital divide, and lowering prices. The future looks promising with expected performance improvements and greater availability of FWA services.
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The source of the article is from the blog be3.sk