As the year comes to a close, it’s our custom to take a look back at some of the milestones accomplished in the world of broadband and cable television, and a look ahead at what the coming year might hold.
Bridging the Digital Divide
A once-in-a-generation opportunity is upon us – to expand broadband deliver high-speed internet access to the communities, businesses, and families who lack access today.
Here is some of the progress that was made in 2022:
- We marked one year since the signing of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which dedicates $65 billion to expanding broadband access to make sure every American has a high-speed internet connection.
- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released a first draft of its new, interactive U.S. broadband map, a pivotal step to getting all Americans connected to high-speed internet.
- More than 15 million American households are now receiving free or discounted high-speed internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program, in partnership with broadband providers. See if you qualify here!
Enhancing Diversity and Representation on TV
TV networks continued to make diversity and inclusion a priority – both on screen and behind the camera.
Here are some of our favorite highlights:
- We celebrated some of the talented Black directors, writers, producers, and actors who are reinventing American entertainment.
- Latino representation continued to see momentum both on and behind the screen.
- The authentic voices of Native Americans were exemplified on screen.
- We highlighted some of the actors and directors that are driving Asian American Pacific Islander representation on television.
Other Callouts
- While prices for many goods and services fluctuated throughout 2022 due to high inflation, cable broadband prices remained stable.
- Cable providers – including Comcast, Cox, Charter, and Mediacom – shook up the mobile wireless market.
- We celebrated HBO’s 50th birthday by highlighting some of the many ways the household name has contributed to TV history.
What to Expect in 2023
The upcoming year will build upon the wave of changes and successes that we experienced in 2022. At Beyond, we’ll be keeping our eye on the following:
- Following a period of public input, we expect a second version of the FCC broadband map will be released in the spring to inform how federal broadband funding will be distributed to expand internet access across the country.
- As federal broadband funds are released to the states, Beyond will advocate for states to do these three things: prioritize connecting unserved communities, collaborate with experienced cable broadband providers who have built the networks that America relies on, and implement safeguards to protect against fraud, waste, and abuse.
- Multi-gig internet speeds will continue to roll out in markets across the country and reach more than 50 million homes and businesses by the end of 2025. Even more exciting, the launch of 10G networks is expected to occur in the year ahead.
Going Beyond, Together
At Beyond, we’re focused on helping our community stay up-to-date on all things broadband and cable television. And we’d love your input! To sign up for updates, read more stories, or get involved in one of our initiatives, visit us here. Happy New Year!
