Chicago-based fourth-largest full-service US wireless carrier, UScellular, has announced surpassing the 100,000 Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Home Internet customers milestone. The company attributes its success to the advancements in fixed wireless technology, which have enabled the provision of high-speed and reliable internet services to households across the nation.
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Fixed Wireless Technology Drives Growth
UScellular said, Unlike traditional wired connections like fibre or cable, fixed wireless technology connects homes and businesses wirelessly to nearby cell towers, making it an ideal solution for both urban and rural areas.
According to UScellular, there has been a significant increase in the use of connectivity solutions in rural areas, where the benefits of such a connectivity solution have been deeply felt.
UScellular commented on the success of fixed wireless, stating, "Three or four years ago, few people predicted the popularity of fixed wireless for in-building internet, but we knew rural areas, in particular, would see great benefit from having this type of connectivity solution. We continue to enhance our Home Internet experience for customers, and the growth and positive response we've received to this service have us excited for the future."
Also Read: UScellular Launches 5G Mid-Band Network, Bringing Faster Connectivity to Parts of 10 States
5G Mid-Band Expansion
To further bolster its Home Internet offerings, UScellular said it is actively working on expanding its 5G mid-band network. Launched earlier this year in parts of 10 states, as reported by TelecomTalk, this network is expected to cover 1 million households by the end of 2023 and 3 million households by the end of 2024.
According to UScellular, its 5G mid-band network offers speeds that are 10 times faster than their 4G LTE and low-band 5G networks, ensuring reliable and speedy connectivity to a wider range of customers.
Customer Base Doubles with 5G Upgrades
UScellular initially introduced Home Internet on its 4G LTE network and has since upgraded the service to incorporate low-band, mid-band, and mmWave 5G technologies in select markets nationwide. As a result, most customers can now access 5G speeds, doubling the customer base in just 18 months.
The company said it offers multiple installation options, including self-install, plug-and-play internal antennas, and routers, along with a professionally installed external antenna in certain regions in line with its commitment to customer convenience.
Furthermore, UScellular plans to introduce additional self-install options later this year to cater to evolving customer needs.
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Enhanced Home Internet Options
Looking ahead, UScellular said it plans to enhance and expand its Home Internet service, particularly in underserved and unserved rural areas.
This will be made possible through funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, as reported by TelecomTalk.