Google is getting into the broadband business.The company plans to deploy its own “experimental” fiber-optic network to at least 50,000 homes, perhaps as many as 500,000. The fiber-optic network will deliver speeds of 1 gigabit-per-second, which is more than 20 times faster than residential fiber optic services offered today in the U.S.
Google official blog says:
"We’re planning to build and test ultra high-speed broadband networks in a small number of trial locations across the United States. We’ll deliver Internet speeds more than 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today with 1 gigabit (GB) per second, fiber-to-the-home connections. We plan to offer service at a competitive price to at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people"
Google wants to take over the world....
- Next generation apps: What can developers and users can do with ultra high-speeds? Google is playing with the possibility of new bandwidth-intensive "killer apps" and services.
- New deployment techniques: Goog is going to test new ways to build fiber networks, and share their findings 'round the globe.
- Openness and choice: Google wants to give users the choice of multiple service providers. To do that, the search giant will operate an "open access" network.
Google Fiber for Communities: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Google planning to build?
Google is planning to build and test ultra-high speed broadband networks in one or more trial locations across the country. We'll deliver Internet speeds more than 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today over 1 gigabit per second, fiber-to-the-home connections. We'll offer service at a competitive price to at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people.
Why is Google doing this?
Our goal is to experiment with new ways to help make Internet access better and faster for everyone.
What criteria will Google use to select the communities for this project?
Above all, we're interested in deploying our network efficiently and quickly, and are hoping to identify interested communities that will work with us to achieve this goal. We also want to work with a community where we can bring significant benefits to residents and develop useful proofs-of-concept that can have a broader impact. For example, we're looking for opportunities to experiment with deployment techniques that can inform and accelerate broadband deployment elsewhere as well. To that end, we'll use our RFI to identify interested communities and to assess local factors that will impact the efficiency and speed of our deployment, such as the level of community support, local resources, weather conditions, approved construction methods and local regulatory issues. We will also take into account broadband availability and speeds that are already offered to users within a community. The RFI is a first step – we plan to consult with local government organizations, as well as conduct site visits and meet with local officials, before announcing our final decisions.
When does Google expect to announce a target community?
We plan to announce a target community or target communities this year.
How much will the services cost?
The final price has not yet been determined, but we intend to offer service at a competitive price.
Why would consumers need 1 Gbps connections?
In the same way that the transition from dial-up to broadband made possible the emergence of online video and countless other applications, ultra high-speed bandwidth will drive more innovation – in high-definition video, remote data storage, real-time multimedia collaboration, and others that we cannot yet imagine. It will enable new consumer applications, as well as medical, educational, and other services that can benefit communities. If the Internet has taught us anything, it's that the most important innovations are often those we least expect.
When does Google expect to have a 1 Gbps network up and running?
Today's announcement is the first of many steps along the way. It's too early to announce a definite launch date, but our hope is to have a network up and running as soon as possible. Right now our focus is on finding the right communities for our trial.
What do you mean by "at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people?"
We have not yet determined the size of the trial, which will be based in large part on the availability of appropriate locations. We expect that we will provide this service to a minimum of 50,000 people and up to as many as 500,000 people, most likely in multiple communities.
Can I submit on behalf of a non-city municipality?
Yes, we will accept responses from any type of municipality including counties, military bases, reservations, etc. Please use the "local governments" link if you are a government or municipal official; otherwise please use the "residents and community groups" link.
Who is allowed to submit a response on behalf of a municipality?
Respondents should clearly state the position in which they represent their city. We encourage responses from city managers, elected officials, and mayors. If you do not represent your city, please submit a statement of interest for residents and community groups.
What if I don't have all the information needed to complete the RFI?
We are asking municipalities to provide as much information as possible about their location, but all submissions are welcome. Please fill in as many of the fields as you can and let us know of any special circumstances that might be affecting your submission.
Can we give Google a gift or visit your office?
We very much appreciate community enthusiasm for this project, but please note that Google cannot accept gifts, nor can we accommodate visits to our corporate headquarters or other offices.
Google Official Blog Post is here....
Thanks,
Jenson
