Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Huawei hotspot supports 110Mbps downstream on Softbank's 4G network]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/softbank-hotspot-supports-110mbps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/softbank-hotspot-supports-110mbps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/softbank-hotspot-supports-110mbps/#comments Huawei hotspot supports 110Mbps downstream on Softbank's 4G network

Huawei's 102HW Ultra WiFi 4G router might not be bathing in the same irradiated limelight as Sharp's Pantone 5, but it's said to support the fastest mobile data service in Japan. Announced at SoftBank's summer product rollout, the 102HW sports download speeds of up to 110 Mbps down and 10 Mbps up on AXGP (Advanced eXtended Global Platform) 4G, though it'll fall back to 3G when necessary. Up to ten users can simultaneous surf the web via 802.11b/g/n WiFi at 300 Mbps and share files through a built in microSDXC card slot. The box can also switch to and from SoftBank WiFi hotspots on the fly if cellular connections alone won't cut it. Live in Japan? You'll have to wait until September to land a hotspot of your own.

Huawei hotspot supports 110Mbps downstream on Softbank's 4G network originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 May 2012 05:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>102HW4GAdvanced eXtended Global PlatformAdvancedExtendedGlobalPlatformAXGPbroadbandconnectivitydatahotspotHuaweiHuawei 102HWHuawei102hwinternetJapanJapanesemobil broadbandMobilBroadbandmobilemobile hotspotMobileHotspotSoftbankultra wifi 4gUltraWifi4gWiFiWiFi HotspotWifiHotspotWed, 30 May 2012 05:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Cheap £149 PC and broadband bundle gives the UK something to smile about]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/£149-computer-broadband-bundle-uk-martha-lane-fox/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/£149-computer-broadband-bundle-uk-martha-lane-fox/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/£149-computer-broadband-bundle-uk-martha-lane-fox/#comments
Cheap £149 PC and broadband bundle gives the UK something to smile about

Charitable entrepreneur Martha Lane Fox has teamed up with Microsoft, TalkTalk, and Simplify Digital to bring a cheaper option for cash-strapped folks in the UK. Starting today, you can buy a refurbished computer with broadband service for a year (with a 40GB monthly cap) for as little as £149 ($240) -- and that price drops even lower for people on state benefits. The "Go On UK" initiative also throws in a WiFi router and Windows 7 to further spread that non-profit love around the nation -- just like we have going on in the US.

Cheap £149 PC and broadband bundle gives the UK something to smile about originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandcharitycomputersdatafreefree broadbandFreeBroadbandgo on ukGoOnUkmartha lane foxMarthaLaneFoxukTue, 22 May 2012 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon's HomeFusion LTE to the home now available nationwide]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/verizons-homefusion-lte-to-the-home-now-available-nationwide/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/verizons-homefusion-lte-to-the-home-now-available-nationwide/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/verizons-homefusion-lte-to-the-home-now-available-nationwide/#comments Verizon's HomeFusion LTE to the home now available nation-wide Verizon is trying to put the final nail in the coffin of its DSL service. Of course, that's still a long way off but, for those outside of reach of its FiOS tentacles, Big Red is pushing HomeFusion. The LTE to the home solution, which started rolling out in early March, is now available nationwide... provided your definition of "nationwide" jibes with Verizon's. Still, with a claimed two-thirds of the US population covered by 230 distinct 4G markets, VZW is hoping to expand its residential broadband footprint without running those costly and ugly wires. The five to 12 Mbps down, and two to five Mbps up speeds aren't going to beat a fiber to the home connection, but it should run circles around your average DSL line. One thing it wont do, though, is save you money. With plans starting at $60 a month for 10GB of data and climbing to $120 for 30GB (not to mention the $10 per GB overage fees) HomeFusion isn't exactly a bargain. For more info check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading Verizon's HomeFusion LTE to the home now available nationwide

Verizon's HomeFusion LTE to the home now available nationwide originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gbroadbandhomefusionhomefusion broadbandHomefusionBroadbandLTElte to the homeLteToTheHomeVerizonverizon homefusionVerizonHomefusionwireless broadbandWirelessBroadbandWed, 02 May 2012 13:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Internet speeds drop around the world according to Akamai, adoption rate up]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/internet-speeds-drop-around-the-world/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/internet-speeds-drop-around-the-world/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/internet-speeds-drop-around-the-world/#comments Internet speeds drop around the world according to Akama, adoption rate up

Here's an odd one: average connection speeds around the globe dropped 14 percent to just 2.3 Mbps during the last quarter of 2011. The drop off remains something of a mystery since the data used to calculate that result doesn't include mobile broadband (so its increased adoption can't be dragging down the whole) and Akamai offers no explanation. Still, it's not time to start panicking, just yet. Even though speeds in the US dropped 5.3 percent from the previous quarter, average connection rates are still up significantly over the previous year. Otherwise, things largely stayed the same. Global broadband adoption was steady at 66 percent and the US continued to trail its friends across the Pacific (by a lot) in the race for the fastest Internet connections.

Interestingly, while the number of broadband connections stayed consistent the number of narrowband lines (under 256 Kbps) declined dramatically. Yet, the percentage of the world's population connected to the web managed to increase 2.1 percent quarter over quarter -- and 13 percent for the year. So, while it may seem that the internet had a temporary set back in Q4 of 2011, the long term trends look good. The number of people online is increasing, the average speeds being pulled down by those people is climbing and the number of folks stuck in the dial up era is dropping. To get a copy of the full report hit up the source.

Internet speeds drop around the world according to Akamai, adoption rate up originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Akamaibroadbandbroadband accessbroadband penetrationbroadband speedBroadbandAccessBroadbandPenetrationBroadbandSpeedinternetinternet penetrationinternet speedInternetPenetrationInternetSpeednumbersstate of the internetStateOfTheInternetstatsstudyMon, 30 Apr 2012 17:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy Connect no longer accepting new activations, service to end June 1st (update: confirmed)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/best-buy-connect-ends/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/best-buy-connect-ends/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/best-buy-connect-ends/#comments Image

Remember Best Buy Connect? If so, you'll soon have a few more megabytes of humanized DDR3 freed up, as it appears that the retail giant is ready to put the kibosh on its own branded mobile broadband service nearly two years after it was first unveiled. According to the internal memo shown in the above screenshot, new activations are no longer allowed effective immediately, and the service for legacy customers will be cut off on the first of June.

So why the change of heart? Apparently Connect is the victim of a reshuffling of priorities, and the company determined that it "can achieve greater growth by delivering mobile broadband support in ways other than an exclusive Best Buy-branded service." Of course, this is bound to upset more than a handful of folks who have been relying on Connect for their data needs, and the retailer isn't leaving them completely in the dark: to help smooth out the transition, all Early Termination Fees will be waived, and all customers will receive a $125 or $150 gift card via email to curb the cost of moving to a different carrier. WiMAX Connect users, additionally, will also be given the option to switch over to Clear service. We're still awaiting official confirmation from Best Buy -- as of this moment, the official website remains up and running as if it's none the wiser -- but we'll update as soon as we hear more.

Update: Best Buy has now officially confirmed to us that the service will indeed be shut off on June 1st.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Best Buy Connect no longer accepting new activations, service to end June 1st (update: confirmed) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best buybest buy connectBestBuyBestBuyConnectbroadbandconnectdataexclusivemobile broadbandMobileBroadbandmobilepostcrossThu, 26 Apr 2012 14:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Huawei 2011 financials: 20 million smartphones sold yet profit down 53 percent]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/huawei-2011-financials-20-million-smartphones-sold-yet-profit-d/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/huawei-2011-financials-20-million-smartphones-sold-yet-profit-d/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/huawei-2011-financials-20-million-smartphones-sold-yet-profit-d/#comments Image

Huawei's annual earnings report is out and it's a mixed bag, since while turnover increased by 11.7 percent to 203.9 RMB ($32.3 billion), profits plummeted 53 percent to 11.6 billion RMB ($1.8 billion). Revenue from overseas sales (138.4 billion RMB) equated for over half the company's total income and it boasted of having sold 150 million consumer devices, including 20 million smartphones in the year. The company didn't provide reasons for the drop in profit, emphasizing that it's increased R&D spending by 34.2 percent to 23.7 billion RMB ($3.75 billion) and that in any event, it's got around $30 billion of assets that can shoulder the brunt of a bad year.

However, the company may not see a rosy 2012 either, after both America and Australia refused to give the company big infrastructure deals (Huawei's bread and butter) thanks to allegedly close relationships between the company and the Chinese government. It seems to be following a similar trajectory to rival ZTE, which also felt margins squeeze as it entered the global retail space and felt the heat when its political dealings were thrown in the spotlight.

Continue reading Huawei 2011 financials: 20 million smartphones sold yet profit down 53 percent

Huawei 2011 financials: 20 million smartphones sold yet profit down 53 percent originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011BackboneBroadbandBusinessDevicesDropEarningsFallFinancialsGovernmentHuaweiInfrastructureInternetLossmobilepostcrossnational securityNationalSecurityProfitRen ZhengfeiRenZhengfeisecuritySmartphonesZTEMon, 23 Apr 2012 17:12:00 EST<![CDATA[UK department store John Lewis launches broadband service, get in on the ground floor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/22/uk-department-store-john-lewis-launches-broadband-service-get-i/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/22/uk-department-store-john-lewis-launches-broadband-service-get-i/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/22/uk-department-store-john-lewis-launches-broadband-service-get-i/#comments UK department store John Lewis launches broadband service, get in on the ground floorIf you live in the UK, and were thinking "If only I could get my broadband from the same place I get my crystal tumbler set" then maybe now you can. Department store John Lewis, a favorite for wedding lists, furniture and homeware is branching out into the British ISP game. The standard package will be £11 a month (not including line rental,) offering "up to" 16Mb speeds and a 20GB data cap. More eager users can pay an extra £7 to remove that download limit. Both bundles benefit from a free phone support, no activation fee and, of course, wireless router. Sound like your kind of deal? Head down to the source link, or past the haberdashery section to find out more.

UK department store John Lewis launches broadband service, get in on the ground floor originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbanddepartment storedepartment storesDepartmentStoreDepartmentStoreshaberdasheryHigh StreetHighStreetinternetinternet service providerInternetServiceProviderispjohn lewisJohnLewisminipostretailretailerUKSun, 22 Apr 2012 06:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BT super-charges fiber-optic broadband today, for the lucky few who can get it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/bt-infinity-speed-bump/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/bt-infinity-speed-bump/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/bt-infinity-speed-bump/#comments ImageExcuse our sour grapes, but the fortunate proportion of Britons with access to BT's fibre fiber-optic broadband will find everything much faster from today at no extra cost. Infinity 1 customers now have an upstream of (as always) "up to" 9.5Mbps, up from 1.9Mbps yesterday, but downstream remains fixed at 38Mbps. Meanwhile, those with Infinity 2 have seen their speeds doubled with 19Mbps up and 76Mbps down as the company continues its jockeying with Virgin Media to remain top dog in the speedy broadband stakes. Those of us who aren't in an area that's been earmarked for the fiber-optic rollout will have to make do with checking the property websites and wishing.

[Thanks, Craig]

Continue reading BT super-charges fiber-optic broadband today, for the lucky few who can get it

BT super-charges fiber-optic broadband today, for the lucky few who can get it originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 06:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>British TelecomBritishTelecomBroadbandBTBT InfinityBtInfinityFibre OpticFibreOpticSpeed BumpSpeedBumpUK BroadbandUkBroadbandVirgin MediaVirginMediaThu, 12 Apr 2012 06:33:00 EST<![CDATA[The Engadget Interview: ViaSat CEO Mark Dankberg on Exede and the future of in-flight WiFi]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/interview-viasat-ceo-mark-dankberg/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/interview-viasat-ceo-mark-dankberg/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/interview-viasat-ceo-mark-dankberg/#comments ImageWhen you think about satellite internet, dismal speeds, ridiculous latency and astronomical fees are likely first to come to mind. But the only technology capable of blanketing our entire planet in connectivity is now able to provide a fast, consistent and affordable experience, thanks to one market-leading company, and the vision and leadership of Mark Dankberg. Launched from Dankberg's home in Southern California, ViaSat lit up on the map in 1986, and spent the first two decades focused on government and corporate contracts. Last year's launch of ViaSat-1, however, beamed the company straight toward the top of the North American satellite broadband market, bringing high-speed internet to the rural masses. Pair the company's Exede household product with airline contracts for in-flight WiFi, and you have one ever-growing infrastructure giant. We sat down with Dankberg -- ViaSat's CEO since inception -- at the company's Carlsbad, California headquarters, learning about the Exede service launch, a portable newsgathering rig and what the future of in-flight WiFi may look like on airlines like JetBlue and United. Join us past the break for the interview in full, and an inside look at how ViaSat plans to transform the entire satellite internet experience.

Continue reading The Engadget Interview: ViaSat CEO Mark Dankberg on Exede and the future of in-flight WiFi

The Engadget Interview: ViaSat CEO Mark Dankberg on Exede and the future of in-flight WiFi originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandceoengadget interviewEngadgetInterviewentertainmentin-flightin-flight internetin-flight wifiIn-flightInternetIn-flightWifiinternetinterviewinterviewsjetbluejetblue airwaysJetblueAirwaysmark dankbergMarkDankbergruralrural broadbandRuralBroadbandsatellitesatellite internetSatelliteInternetspacethe engadget interviewTheEngadgetInterviewunitedunited airlinesUnitedAirlinesviasatviasat-1viasat-2wifiwildblueWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amped Wireless High Power R10000G Router and Smart Repeater hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/amped-wireless-high-power-r10000g-router-and-smart-repeater-hand/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/amped-wireless-high-power-r10000g-router-and-smart-repeater-hand/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/amped-wireless-high-power-r10000g-router-and-smart-repeater-hand/#comments Image
Until now, Amped Wireless has been best known for its industrial networking gear, capable of maintaining a signal up to 1.5 miles away from the base station. Now, though, the outfit's also selling some equipment for folks with a more modest setup: the R10000G Home Router and SR10000 Smart Repeater, which promise to coat 10,000 square feet of your abode / office in robust, high-quality WiFi. Of course, we just had to test these claims out for ourselves, and see if these units really were formidable enough to leave our own router crying in the corner. We devised three simple experiments to see how they hold up in the real world -- head on past the break to find out how they fared.

Gallery: Amped Wireless R10000G Router and Smart Repeater hands-on

Amped Wireless R10000G Router Unboxing

Continue reading Amped Wireless High Power R10000G Router and Smart Repeater hands-on

Amped Wireless High Power R10000G Router and Smart Repeater hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Amped WirelessAmped Wireless R10000GAmped Wireless SR10000GAmpedWirelessAmpedWirelessR10000gAmpedWirelessSr10000gBlackspotBroadbandhands-onrepeaterrepeatersRouterroutersWiFiWiFi BlackspotWifiBlackspotWireless InternetWirelessInternetFri, 06 Apr 2012 11:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Sky offers free WiFi to broadband customers via 'The Cloud', makes pun writers' jobs too easy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/sky-offers-free-wifi-to-broadband-customers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/sky-offers-free-wifi-to-broadband-customers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/sky-offers-free-wifi-to-broadband-customers/#comments ImageSky broadband customers will be pleased to hear that the operator is to release a new "Sky Cloud WiFi" app that will let them hop onto 10,000 hotspots around the UK. The new venture comes after it snatched up service provider The Cloud earlier this year, and also includes WiFi at partner outlets such as: Pizza Express, Caffè Nero, JD Wetherspoon and First Great Western trains. The app will be free, and available on iOS and Android, but only Broadband Unlimited / Connect customers will be able to dine at the free-data table when it launches in mid-April. That said, with the option of being able to register up to six devices per household, perhaps now's the time to give your Sky-subscribing friend a call, just to see how they are.

Continue reading Sky offers free WiFi to broadband customers via 'The Cloud', makes pun writers' jobs too easy

Sky offers free WiFi to broadband customers via 'The Cloud', makes pun writers' jobs too easy originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappbroadbandhotspotinternetiosskysky cloud wifiSkyCloudWifithe cloudTheCloudUKwifiWed, 04 Apr 2012 15:06:00 EST<![CDATA[China officially tops one billion mobile subscribers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/30/china-officially-tops-one-billion-mobile-subscribers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/30/china-officially-tops-one-billion-mobile-subscribers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/30/china-officially-tops-one-billion-mobile-subscribers/#comments
We heard last year that China was approaching 900 million mobile phone subscribers, and it looks like it's now finally hit the big one. The country's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology confirmed today that, as of the end of February, there were more than a billion mobile subscribers in the country (1.01 billion, to be specific). As the AFP notes, that's individual subscriptions, which includes users with more than one phone, but any way you slice it that's a whole lot of cellphone users. Of those, 144 million are on 3G networks, which is fully double the number from April of 2011. Not surprisingly, much of that growth comes at the expense of landline phones, which have dropped a further 828,000 in the first two months of the year to 284.3 million. Internet use also continues to be on the upswing, with more than half a billion people having internet access of some sort, and 154.96 million having broadband access (up nearly five million during those same two months).

China officially tops one billion mobile subscribers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 15:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gbroadbandcell phonecellphonecellphone useCellphoneUsechinainternet useInternetUsemobilemobile phonemobile useMobilePhonemobilepostcrossMobileUsestatstatssubscriberssubscriptionsFri, 30 Mar 2012 15:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Huawei hardware won't be part of National Broadband Network, says Australia]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/huawei-hardware-wont-be-part-of-national-broadband-network-say/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/huawei-hardware-wont-be-part-of-national-broadband-network-say/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/huawei-hardware-wont-be-part-of-national-broadband-network-say/#comments ImageHuawei just can't catch a break -- first the US blocks it from being a part of its first responder wireless network, and now, Australia is following suit. According to the Australian Financial Review, the Shenzhen-based outfit has been barred from tendering contracts for the country's A$43 billion National Broadband Network on the advice of the Australian Security Intelligence Organization. Alexander Downer, of Huawei's Australian board directors, called the situation "ridiculous," postulating that "the whole concept of Huawei being involved in cyber-warfare is based on the company being Chinese." This isn't the first time Huawei has had to combat suspicions of espionage, last year the outfit assured the US government that a "thorough investigation will prove that Huawei is a normal commercial institution and nothing more." Cheer up, Huawei, the smartphone market still loves you.

Huawei hardware won't be part of National Broadband Network, says Australia originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 02:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alexander Downeraustraliabroadbandbusinesscellphonechinachina hackingChinaHackingchinesechinese hackingChineseHackingcontractcontractorcorporate espionageCorporateEspionagedefense departmentDefenseDepartmentespionagefiber opticfiber opticsFiberOpticFiberOpticsFinanceHuaweiKevinRuddNational Broadband NetworkNBNnetworkingMon, 26 Mar 2012 02:43:00 EST<![CDATA[New undersea cables planned for arctic passageways, frozen gamers dream of lower pings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/undersea-fiber-optic-cable-arctic-northwest-passage-record/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/undersea-fiber-optic-cable-arctic-northwest-passage-record/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/undersea-fiber-optic-cable-arctic-northwest-passage-record/#comments ImageHot on the heels of our own reporting of cables in the South Pacific (or the lack thereof), in flies a report that at least two new undersea cables are being planned for the arctic. According to New Scientist, a pair of lengthy fiber optic wires will be laid through the Northwest Passage above North America, connecting Japan to the United Kingdom. Moreover, a third cable is planned along the Russian coastline, with the longest of these links to purportedly become "the world's longest single stretch of optical fiber." A number of outfits are on the list to help out, and when complete, the latency between Tokyo and London should be reduced between 168ms and 230ms. The cost for such luxury? An estimated $600 million to $1.5 billion for each line. In other words, totally worth it.

New undersea cables planned for arctic passageways, frozen gamers dream of lower pings originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 21:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcticbroadbandcablecommunicationsconnectionfiberfiber opticfiber opticsFiberOpticFiberOpticsinternetjapanlatencynorth americaNorthAmericaopticrussiatransmissionukunderseaundersea cableUnderseaCablevoipTue, 20 Mar 2012 21:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Bringing wireless to the disconnected: internet tales from the South Pacific]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/bringing-wireless-to-the-disconnected-internet-south-pacific/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/bringing-wireless-to-the-disconnected-internet-south-pacific/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/bringing-wireless-to-the-disconnected-internet-south-pacific/#comments

"We only have dial-up here. You'd be shocked at the speeds. [Laughs.] But it's okay -- as long as I can send and reply to email, I'm fine with it."

Those were the words spoken to me just weeks ago by the absolutely precious owner of Litia Sini Beach Resort on the extreme southeastern tip of Upolu. For those unaware, that's Samoa's most populous island (~135,000 people) -- a sliver of lush, mountainous land dropped almost perfectly in the center of the Pacific Ocean. I chuckled a bit upon hearing it, immediately realizing that I had a connection in the palm of my hand that was 20, 30, perhaps even 40 times quicker than what this business owner was relying on. She paused, as if to collect her thoughts before going into a familiar spiel about the resort's amenities, and then drew my attention to the display of her laptop.

"It's still a draft for now, but this is the new tsunami evacuation plan that we're working on. Soon, we'll have this in each fale. It's taking a bit of time to get right, as the drawings are actually done in New Zealand."

I nodded my head in understanding, immediately thinking that this must be in reaction to the catastrophic tsunami of September 2009, caused by a magnitude 8.1 submarine earthquake that hit barely 100 miles from the very spot I was sitting. It was the largest quake of 2009. The entire resort was leveled. Dozens upon dozens were killed. And here we were, over two full years later, and the evacuation schematics are still in "draft."

Continue reading Bringing wireless to the disconnected: internet tales from the South Pacific

Bringing wireless to the disconnected: internet tales from the South Pacific originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g4gamerican samoaAmericanSamoablueskybluesky samoaBlueskySamoabroadbandfijihspahspa plusHspaPlusinternetmobile broadbandmobile internetMobileBroadbandMobileInternetrental simRentalSimsamoasimtravelwireless internetWirelessInternetwwanMon, 12 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon launches 'faster than wired' broadband for the home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/verizon-homefusion-broadband/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/verizon-homefusion-broadband/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/verizon-homefusion-broadband/#comments Verizon Wireless is making good on that name, aiming to rid your home of those ugly, ugly wires. The carrier wants to substitute them with the not-exactly-subtle, bucket-sized antenna you can see on the left. Its HomeFusion service aims to replace DSL-connected domiciles, with Verizon reckoning its own wireless broadband can offer up better upload and download speeds. According to the Washington Post, the hardware will set potential customers back around $200, but installation costs will be included in the service. The entry-level $60 per month package will net you just 10GB of data, with HomeFusion currently readied for launch in Dallas and Birmingham later this month. Users will be able to connect up to 50 different devices and Verizon intends to roll out the wireless internet package as far as its LTE network tendrils can reach. Plans go up to the dizzying heights of 30GB for $120 per month, with additional gigabytes charged at $10 a pop. For anyone in broadband-unfriendly homes looking for a step up in internet speed, you may want to start looking for somewhere to hide hang that antenna...

Continue reading Verizon launches 'faster than wired' broadband for the home

Verizon launches 'faster than wired' broadband for the home originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4Gantennabroadbandfusionhomehome fusionHomeFusionhomefusion broadbandHomefusionBroadbandinternetLTEverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelesswirelessWireless internetWirelessInternetTue, 06 Mar 2012 06:57:00 EST<![CDATA[European Parliament approves January 2013 deadline for 4G spectrum free up]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/european-parliament-approves-january-2013-deadline-for-4g-spectr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/european-parliament-approves-january-2013-deadline-for-4g-spectr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/european-parliament-approves-january-2013-deadline-for-4g-spectr/#comments Back in November, the European Commission, European Parliament and its member states agreed on plans to repurpose their 800MHz frequency bands for 4G mobile networks. Today, that decision has been officially approved. The Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP) has been set up to coordinate the use of this spectrum for fourth-generation services across the continent. Currently, 800MHz is used for analog television, but the new ruling gives member nations until the 1st of January 2013 to switch over to digital and authorize the band for its new role. Those nations dragging their heels can obtain an exemption, but mobile operators will be eager to see the spectrum freed up before then if possible. Swedish politician Gunnar Hökmark, who pushed for the legislation, hopes that it could lead to the EU having the fastest mobile broadband worldwide. Just don't tell AT&T.

European Parliament approves January 2013 deadline for 4G spectrum free up originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4g800mhzanalogbroadbanddigitaldigital switchoverDigitalSwitchoverEUeuropeeuropean commissionEuropean Councileuropean parliamenteuropean unionEuropeanCommissionEuropeanCouncilEuropeanParliamentEuropeanUnionfrequencygovernmentlawlteradio spectrum policy programmeRadioSpectrumPolicyProgrammeRSSPwireless broadbandWirelessBroadbandWed, 15 Feb 2012 23:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Satellite web surfing at 40Mbps with ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/viasat-surfbeam-2-pro-40mbps-satellite-broadband/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/viasat-surfbeam-2-pro-40mbps-satellite-broadband/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/viasat-surfbeam-2-pro-40mbps-satellite-broadband/#comments If you've been relying on a satellite modem for your daily dose of the Internet, you're probably all too familiar with sub-1Mbps download speeds and an overall painful experience. That's exactly why we've been so impressed with ViaSat and its new 12Mbps down, 3Mbps up Exede residential satellite broadband product. Yesterday, we journeyed deep into Camp Pendleton near San Diego to test out those 12/3Mbps speeds on the go-anywhere SurfBeam 2 Pro Portable, and now we're back to play around with the enterprise setup's more stationary sibling, the SurfBeam 2 Pro. The modem functions in much the same way as ViaSat's less-expensive household version, though there's a bit more horsepower under the hood.

The sample we saw at the company's Carlsbad, CA headquarters is also provisioned for faster service, delivering throughput in excess of 40Mbps down, letting you transfer files from the web at speeds you'd typically only be able to meet with a fiber connection. That may be a bit excessive for regular web use, but if you need to download software, movies or other large files in remote areas, that extra speed will likely be more than welcome. Join us past the break for a quick look a Exede, followed by a demo of the enterprise version and its 40Mbps downloads.

Gallery: ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro hands-on

Continue reading Satellite web surfing at 40Mbps with ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro (video)

Satellite web surfing at 40Mbps with ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandcaliforniaconnectionconnectivityhands-oninternetka bandka-bandKaBandlaunchPro PortableProPortableremoteremote broadbandRemoteBroadbandruralrural broadbandRuralBroadbandsatellitesatellite internetSatelliteInternetSurfBeam2SurfBeam2 Pro PortableSurfbeam2ProPortableviasatViaSat SurfBeam2 Pro Portableviasat-1ViasatSurfbeam2ProPortablevideowildbluewirelessxplornetTue, 14 Feb 2012 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Live from Camp Pendleton with ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro Portable (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/viasat-surfbeam-2-pro-portable/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/viasat-surfbeam-2-pro-portable/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/viasat-surfbeam-2-pro-portable/#comments There's no power outlet, land-based internet connection or even a decent cell signal in sight, yet we're posting this live, at fast broadband speeds. We're miles deep into Camp Pendleton, connected to ViaSat's SurfBeam 2 Pro Portable mobile satellite transceiver and sending data to and from ViaSat-1 located more than 20,000 miles above our heads. SurfBeam 2 wasn't designed for us to kick back and surf the web in the middle of nowhere at speeds that we could barely achieve while tethered to a cable connection just a few years ago, but we're doing just that, with ViaSat's roughly $20,000 go-anywhere satellite broadband rig. We first heard about Pro Portable last month at CES, which the company is marketing towards military, emergency management personnel and even broadcasters -- that's right, the sat truck of the future fits inside a hand-carry suitcase, and sends HD video from the world's most remote locations right back to broadcast centers at record speed, nearly eliminating that lag that makes certain CNN reports painful to watch.

Pro Portable really can go anywhere -- disassembled, it fits inside a fairly modest suitcase, but screw it together and you have a full-size dish. There's also a four-port Ethernet router and an optional battery pack, which provides up to four hours of juice. Think of it as Exede broadband for far-off-the-grid types. Sadly, Pro Portable isn't priced low enough to make its way into your on-the-go blogger kit, but it costs a small fraction of the million dollars you can spend on a sat truck, which rents for thousands of dollars a day. It's also far more transportable and discrete, offering consistent 12 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload speeds nearly anywhere in North America. How can SurfBeam 2 hold up during a bandwidth-intensive HD upload? See for yourself just past the break -- our 230MB hands-on video made its way from the ground to space and back to Viddler in just shy of 13 minutes, and our Skype video call looked fantastic, without any noticeable lag.

Gallery: ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro Portable hands-on

Continue reading Live from Camp Pendleton with ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro Portable (video)

Live from Camp Pendleton with ViaSat SurfBeam 2 Pro Portable (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandcaliforniaconnectionconnectivityhands-oninternetka bandka-bandKaBandlaunchPro PortableProPortableremoteremote broadbandRemoteBroadbandruralrural broadbandRuralBroadbandsatellitesatellite internetsatellite launchSatelliteInternetSatelliteLaunchsouthern californiaSouthernCaliforniaSurfBeam2SurfBeam2 Pro PortableSurfbeam2ProPortableviasatViaSat SurfBeam2 Pro Portableviasat-1ViasatSurfbeam2ProPortablevideowildbluewirelessxplornetMon, 13 Feb 2012 20:34:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T seeks to impose conditions on Dish LTE network, FCC to settle wireless squabble]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/atandt-seeks-to-impose-conditions-on-dish-lte-network-fcc-to-sett/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/atandt-seeks-to-impose-conditions-on-dish-lte-network-fcc-to-sett/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/atandt-seeks-to-impose-conditions-on-dish-lte-network-fcc-to-sett/#commentsYou know the saying, second place is the first loser? Well, it looks like AT&T, which recently saw its attempt to absorb T-Mobile thwarted, is living up to that adage by petitioning the FCC to impose an "overly aggressive buildout" of Dish's planned mobile network. In a recent filing to the Commission, the satco countered this request for "LightSquared-like" requirements, defining its operation as a strictly retail endeavor, one that faces entirely different hurdles than that of its wholesale competitor. If granted, however, these conditions could see the fledgling network rushed to the marketplace before the completion of an LTE-Advanced standard and widespread availability of compatible devices -- both key elements of the MVPD's service strategy. The company also goes on to contest interference issues surrounding its 700MHz holdings, stating that it has no current plans to repurpose the spectrum for mobile broadband use, despite AT&T's claims to that effect. We'll keep you posted as this wireless battle plays out. In the meantime, hit up the source below to peruse the dense legalese.

AT&T seeks to impose conditions on Dish LTE network, FCC to settle wireless squabble originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ATTbroadbandDishdish networkDishNetworkFCCfilingltelte advancedLteAdvancedmobile networkMobileNetworkmobilepostcrosssatellitespectrumwirelessFri, 03 Feb 2012 18:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Comcast's Internet Essentials program expanding as digital literacy project soars]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/comcast-s-internet-essentials-program-expanding-as-digital-liter/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/comcast-s-internet-essentials-program-expanding-as-digital-liter/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/comcast-s-internet-essentials-program-expanding-as-digital-liter/#comments If everyone needs the internet, then poor kids need it more -- since so much learning material is dependent on technology. Comcast teamed up with the FCC to produce Internet Essentials: a $10 a month broadband plan and $150 computers to get the nation's poorest families online. Six months later, the program's been a colossal success, leading to the company adding some sweeteners: eligibility is being relaxed to include any family who qualifies for discounted lunches (swelling the catchment group by a further 300,000). It's also doubling the speed of the available connection: 3 Mbps down and 768 Kbps up and is allowing community groups to bulk-buy packages to directly supply the most impecunious households. It's also pairing up with the "connect to compete" initiative to reduce computer costs, enrich digital literacy materials and connect those outside of Comcast's core service areas. You can head on down to our source link to read the extended report and see how families are benefiting from a little corporate good deed.

Comcast's Internet Essentials program expanding as digital literacy project soars originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BroadbandBroadband AdoptionBroadbandAdoptionComcastEducationFCCInternetInternet EssentialsInternetEssentialsLow IncomeLow Income FamiliesLowIncomeLowIncomeFamiliesPoorPoorestSocial ResponsibilitySocialResponsibilityWed, 01 Feb 2012 18:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Sky will launch an internet based TV service in the UK in the first half of 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/sky-will-launch-an-internet-based-tv-service-in-the-uk-in-the-fi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/sky-will-launch-an-internet-based-tv-service-in-the-uk-in-the-fi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/sky-will-launch-an-internet-based-tv-service-in-the-uk-in-the-fi/#comments UK pay TV service Sky has just announced its quarterly results, and despite adding 100,000 subscribers as well as notching its "highest ever first-half adjusted operating profit" it will launch a new internet TV service, available to anyone in the country with a broadband connection. Sky describes the new over the top (OTT) service as being aimed at the 13 million UK households who don't currently subscribe to pay TV, with access available via "PC, laptop, tablet, smartphone, games console or connected TV." Initially, it will offer Sky Movies on demand joined by sports and entertainment options later, with access based on either monthly unlimited subscription or "pay-as-you-go" pricing. As far as the company's basic services, it will continue to develop its existing Sky Go product for standard pay-TV subscribers and zeebox iPad companion app, although this seems to initially be a worth competitor for things like Lovefilm and recent UK entrant Netflix. We have plenty of questions about what it will offer cord-cutters and cord-nevers in the UK when it launches in the first half of this year, we should find out more on the earnings call shortly. Until then, hit the PDF link for more detailed financial breakdowns, or check out the IPTV service press release after the break.

Update: Still waiting for Sky Go on Android? The company mentioned during its presentation that the app will finally arrive on Google's platform in February, starting with Samsung Galaxy and HTC handsets. It will also have new channels, including Sky 1, Sky Living and Sky Arts, plus, of course, the new Sky Sports F1 HD channel. The company is also expanding its broadband reach, with plans to cover a million more homes by June 2013, and add a Sky Broadband Unlimited Fibre option. For 20 a month, it offers 40 megabit download speed with no usage caps based on BT Fibre.

Continue reading Sky will launch an internet based TV service in the UK in the first half of 2012

Sky will launch an internet based TV service in the UK in the first half of 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbreaking newsbroadbandcablecable tvCableTvearningsfinancialshdpostcrossinternetinternet tvInternetTviptvmobilepostcrossottover the topOverTheToppay tvPayTvsatelliteskysky gosky tvSkyGoSkyTvstreamingukvodTue, 31 Jan 2012 03:05:00 EST<![CDATA[North Carolina launches FCC-approved TV White Space network in Wilmington]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/north-carolina-launches-fcc-approved-tv-white-space-network-in-w/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/north-carolina-launches-fcc-approved-tv-white-space-network-in-w/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/north-carolina-launches-fcc-approved-tv-white-space-network-in-w/#comments
Back in December, the FCC approved the first white space device and database for the lucky city of Wilmington, North Carolina. Last week, the program bore its first fruits, when database operator Spectrum Bridge finally launched its TV White Space (TVWS) network in Carolina, as part of Wilmington's ongoing "Smart City" initiative. With the TVWS network up and running, Wilmingtonians will have internet access in public parks, while authorities will be able to use part of Spectrum Bridge's broadband for video surveillance. Public security, in fact, is among the primary functions of the new network, which will be expanded to help manage traffic congestion and to help the city function more efficiently. Beam past the break for more, in the full press release.

Continue reading North Carolina launches FCC-approved TV White Space network in Wilmington

North Carolina launches FCC-approved TV White Space network in Wilmington originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandenergy efficiencyEnergyEfficiencyfccfederal communications commissionFederalCommunicationsCommissionhdpostcrossinternetlaunchmobilepostcrossnetworknorth carolinaNorthCarolinasecuritysmart citySmartCitySpectrum BridgeSpectrumBridgesurveillancetraffictvTV White SpaceTV White Space networkTvWhiteSpaceTvWhiteSpaceNetworkTVWSwhite spaceWhiteSpacewilmingtonwilmington north carolinaWilmingtonNorthCarolinaMon, 30 Jan 2012 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Israel announces plans to build national broadband network, increases fiber intake]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/27/israel-announces-plans-to-build-national-broadband-network-incr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/27/israel-announces-plans-to-build-national-broadband-network-incr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/27/israel-announces-plans-to-build-national-broadband-network-incr/#comments
Israel is home to a burgeoning tech industry, but the country's broadband infrastructure hasn't really been able to keep pace. In terms of broadband penetration, in fact, Israel ranks just 21st out of 34 developed nations, according to statistics gathered by the OECD. All this may be changing, however, now that the country's state-run electric company has announced plans to create a new national broadband network. According to the AP, the forthcoming network will use so-called fiber to the home (FTTH) technology, which is capable of providing connections at speeds of between 100Mbps and 1Gbps. That would be about ten to 100 times faster than the connections most Israelis have today, and could offer obvious benefits to a wide array of businesses and industries. The electric company is aiming to have 10 percent of the country connected to its new network by next year, and to have two-thirds covered within the next seven years.

Israel announces plans to build national broadband network, increases fiber intake originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandbroadband accessbroadband speedBroadbandAccessBroadbandSpeedconnectionelectric companyElectricCompanyfiberfiber opticFiberOpticftthgbpsgigabitisraelisraelimegabitmiddle eastMiddleEastnational broadband networkNationalBroadbandNetworkstart upStartUpFri, 27 Jan 2012 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft outlines Windows 8 wireless improvements]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/microsoft-outlines-windows-8-wireless-improvements/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/microsoft-outlines-windows-8-wireless-improvements/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/microsoft-outlines-windows-8-wireless-improvements/#comments It wasn't long ago that wireless networking in Windows was a hodgepodge mess of vendor-specific drivers and apps all conspiring against Microsoft's default interface. Windows 7 solved this in part by streamlining WiFi connectivity, but it appears once again that Microsoft wants to extend the idea to 3G and 4G networking in Windows 8 -- with built-in data activation and usage tools to boot. So, if you've been longing to show VZAccess Manager the door, you'll find more details in the source link below.

Microsoft outlines Windows 8 wireless improvements originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandconnectivityMicrosoftMicrosoft Windows 8MicrosoftWindows8minipostnetworkingsettingssoftwareWindowsWindows 8Windows8wirelessWLANWWANTue, 24 Jan 2012 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Virgin Media suffers three hour outage days after announcing super-fast broadband]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/18/virgin-media-outage/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/18/virgin-media-outage/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/18/virgin-media-outage/#comments
Less than a week after announcing it would double customers broadband speeds nationwide, Virgin Media suffered a nationwide blackout that sent the network dark for most of Tuesday evening. At 5:00, the service dropped after router hardware decided it couldn't go on streaming the same episode of The Jeremy Kyle Show to the nation. The company admitted to the fault and service was restored by 8:00pm. Had it been smarter, it could have gotten away with passing the whole thing off as a SOPA protest, but we admire Virgin's honesty -- even if it did lead to the brilliant comment on Twitter pictured above.

Virgin Media suffers three hour outage days after announcing super-fast broadband originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlackoutBroadbandCableFailureInternet BlackoutInternetBlackoutOutageRichard BransonRichardBransonSir Richard BransonSirRichardBransonSOPAUKVirgin MediaVirginMediaWed, 18 Jan 2012 13:22:00 EST<![CDATA[FCC chairman implores Congress to speed up spectrum auctions, does it with a Galaxy Tab 8.9]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/fcc-genachowski-broadband-ipad-galaxy-tab/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/fcc-genachowski-broadband-ipad-galaxy-tab/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/fcc-genachowski-broadband-ipad-galaxy-tab/#comments FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski renewed his pleas for more broadband spectrum yesterday, and he chose a rather peculiar platform upon which to do it. In an address here at CES yesterday, Genachowski called upon Congress to hurry up and open auctions for spectrum, and to allow his commission to reserve some space for itself. "It would be a very serious mistake to pass incentive legislation and prohibit the FCC from using some spectrum for unlicensed (uses)," Genachowski explained, adding that these unlicensed appropriations would help spur innovation. "We may see innovations there that lead to more efficient use. To me, it's a no-brainer." It's an argument that he's been making for a while now, but as All Things D noticed, Wednesday's address was unique for an entirely different reason. For the first time yesterday, he displayed his comments on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9, rather than his standard iPad. His thoughts on the slate? "It was all good," Genachowski said. "It was a seamless experience." He then proceeded, however, to send an e-mail with his iPad.

FCC chairman implores Congress to speed up spectrum auctions, does it with a Galaxy Tab 8.9 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleauctionbroadbandcesces 2012Ces2012congressfccipadJulius GenachowskiJuliusGenachowskimobilepostcrosspoliticssamsungsamsung galaxy tab 8.9SamsungGalaxyTab8.9slatespectrumtabletThu, 12 Jan 2012 10:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Virgin Media to double broadband speeds this year, BT smirks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/virgin-media-to-double-broadband-speeds-this-year-bt-smirks/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/virgin-media-to-double-broadband-speeds-this-year-bt-smirks/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/virgin-media-to-double-broadband-speeds-this-year-bt-smirks/#comments Virgin Media customers are in for a big treat today, because the UK-based ISP has just announced plans to double the average speed of its broadband service. Over the course of the next 18 months, top speeds will increase from 100 Mbps to 120Mbps, as part of a £110 million ($169 million) initiative. Users on 10Mbps, 20Mbps and 50Mbps plans, meanwhile, will see their speeds and bandwidth usage limits doubled, at no extra charge. The upgrade is slated to begin rolling out in February, and should be complete by the middle of next year. Competing company BT, meanwhile, was quick to point out the similarity between Virgin Media's new campaign and its own upgrade. "It is no surprise to see that Virgin are following our lead by doubling speeds," BT said in a statement. "We announced we would do this for our fiber products last autumn and so they are trying to catch up with us."

Virgin Media to double broadband speeds this year, BT smirks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandbroadband upgradeBroadbandUpgradeBTbusinessindustryinternetinternet service providerInternetServiceProviderispspeedspeedsukupgradevirgin mediaVirginMediaWed, 11 Jan 2012 00:13:00 EST<![CDATA[ViaSat 12Mbps 'exede' broadband gets official date and data bundles, eyes up you rural types]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/viasat-12mbps-exede-broadband-gets-official-date-and-data-bund/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/viasat-12mbps-exede-broadband-gets-official-date-and-data-bund/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/viasat-12mbps-exede-broadband-gets-official-date-and-data-bund/#comments Still fancy some of that 12Mbps satellite broadband ViaSat announced last week? Well, the service finally got a name: Exede. Also, that suggested January 16th date for consumer roll-out has been confirmed. If you're still undecided whether you want some of that "feels like fiber" service, then maybe the freshly revealed package details might sway you? The $50 basic bundle will get you 7.5GB monthly quota which can be increased to 15GB ($80) or 25GB ($130) if that doesn't fill your data belly. Tap the PR if you want to read more.

Continue reading ViaSat 12Mbps 'exede' broadband gets official date and data bundles, eyes up you rural types

ViaSat 12Mbps 'exede' broadband gets official date and data bundles, eyes up you rural types originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandexedeinternet accessInternetAccessminipostrural broadbandRuralBroadbandsatellitesatellite broadbandsatellite internetSatelliteBroadbandSatelliteInternetserviceservice providersServiceProvidersviasatviasat exedeViasatExedeTue, 10 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Dish Network announces Hopper DVR system, Joey set-top box, launches broadband, Test Drive services]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/dish-network-announces-hopper-dvr-system-joey-set-top-box-laun/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/dish-network-announces-hopper-dvr-system-joey-set-top-box-laun/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/dish-network-announces-hopper-dvr-system-joey-set-top-box-laun/#comments
Dish Network just made a slew of big announcements at its CES press conference today, introducing the Hopper HD DVR system, the corollary Joey set-top box, and a new, TV Everywhere-based Test Drive service. Let's start with the hardware: the Hopper unit is comprised of three satellite TV tuners, a 2TB hard drive that promises up to 2,000 hours of entertainment, including up to 250 hours of HD viewing and 1,000 hours of SD recording. The device can record up to six TV shows at once, and allows users to watch as many as four recorded shows in four different rooms. When combined with the Joey, users can take advantage of a 750MHz Broadcom processor that, according to Dish, is the fastest satellite receiver on the market.

Also announced today is something known as Test Drive -- a new "try before they buy" service that allows customers to get a free taste of TV Everywhere for 24 hours. As of February 1st, users will be able to sign up for Test Drive and stream select TV shows to their PCs, tablets or smartphones at no charge (for a limited time, of course). Also in February, the company will launch a new satellite broadband package, as part of a new service launched with ViaSat. These new packages will offer download speeds of up to 12Mbps, and upload rates of up to 3Mbps. Installation prices will start at $99, with bundles starting at around $80 per month. For more details, hit up the troika of PRs, after the break.

Continue reading Dish Network announces Hopper DVR system, Joey set-top box, launches broadband, Test Drive services

Dish Network announces Hopper DVR system, Joey set-top box, launches broadband, Test Drive services originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsbroadbandcesces 2012Ces2012Dishdish networkDish Network Test DriveDishNetworkDishNetworkTestDrivehdpostcrosssatelliteservicestreamingTest DriveTestDrivetvtv everywhereTvEverywhereviasatMon, 09 Jan 2012 15:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Dish Network adds video on-demand streaming for iPad, enhanced Thuuz Google TV app]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/dish-network-vod-ipad-thuuz/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/dish-network-vod-ipad-thuuz/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/dish-network-vod-ipad-thuuz/#comments While Dish isn't yet ready to officially reveal the details of its new "Hopper" multiroom DVR setup or any wireless broadband plans, it has announced the addition of video on-demand streaming to its Remote Access iPad app. For users with the Blockbuster @Home package or premium movie channels like HBO, they can log in with their Dish Online ID and be in business. The remote viewing portion has also been refreshed, with what we're told is an updated guide. For Google TV owners, it also announced an official tie-in with the developers of Thuuz to record the live sports programs it alerts users to. Check out the details in the press release after the break, as well as a few hands-on pics of the iPad app in our gallery.

Gallery: Dish Network remote access iPad app

Continue reading Dish Network adds video on-demand streaming for iPad, enhanced Thuuz Google TV app

Dish Network adds video on-demand streaming for iPad, enhanced Thuuz Google TV app originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbroadbandcesces 2012ces unveiledCes2012CesUnveileddishdish networkDishNetworkdvrgoogle tvGoogleTvhdpostcrosshopperjoeyltesatellitethuuzvodSun, 08 Jan 2012 19:41:00 EST<![CDATA[US Cellular reassures us of LTE plans: first tablet by March, smartphone by April]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/us-cellular-lte-march-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/us-cellular-lte-march-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/us-cellular-lte-march-2012/#comments
Last we heard, LTE was supposed to land on US Cellular last November, but months passed with nary a peep on the carrier's progress. Finally, a little ray of light shone from its official Twitter account as it confirmed today that high-speed mobile broadband is still on the radar, but its deployment was simply pushed back to the end of March, when we'll see the first LTE-capable tablet arrive. For those craving to have the service on something a little smaller, the company also told us to expect the first smartphone in April. And we have a pretty good idea of where: brief jaunt to US Cellular's website offers a few 4G coverage maps in select parts of Iowa, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Maine, Texas and North Carolina. We'll give US Cellular a mulligan this time -- let's just make sure it doesn't happen again, shall we?

Continue reading US Cellular reassures us of LTE plans: first tablet by March, smartphone by April

US Cellular reassures us of LTE plans: first tablet by March, smartphone by April originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gbroadbanddeploymentexpansionlong-term evolutionLong-termEvolutionltemobile broadbandMobileBroadbandmobilepostcrossus cellularUsCellularThu, 05 Jan 2012 18:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Cricket LTE goes live in Tucson, introduces the Huawei Boltz]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/cricket-lte-goes-live-in-tucson-introduces-the-huawei-boltz/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/cricket-lte-goes-live-in-tucson-introduces-the-huawei-boltz/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/cricket-lte-goes-live-in-tucson-introduces-the-huawei-boltz/#commentsLeap Wireless, the Cricket folks, told us we can expect to see LTE service go live in Tucson before the end of the year -- and by golly, they were bound and determined to do it. Sure 'nuff, the prepaid carrier is now ready to match wits against MetroPCS as it brings its first 4G market and device live with just ten days remaining in 2011. At least 90 percent of Tucson will be able to enjoy the faster speeds, with nearby Nogales, AZ receiving some expansion love sometime in 2012 and at least two-thirds of its countrywide network benefiting from the next-gen service within the next two to three years. Its first LTE device is the Huawei Boltz -- also known as the Huawei E397 in other parts of the world -- and can be bought for $150 with no contract. Eventually, Leap says, the lineup will be expanded to include smartphones and tablets. Now, let's talk pricing: two data plans of 5GB each are available, with $50 getting you download speeds of 3Mbps and $60 offering you 6Mbps. Granted, this is nothing compared to the ultra-fast speeds you see on Verizon and AT&T's LTE networks at the moment, but it's a start.

Continue reading Cricket LTE goes live in Tucson, introduces the Huawei Boltz

Cricket LTE goes live in Tucson, introduces the Huawei Boltz originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500mhz4g6mbpsband 15Band15broadbandcrickete397huawei boltzhuawei e397HuaweiBoltzHuaweiE397leapleap wirelessLeapWirelessltelte band 15LteBand15mobilepostminiprepaidtucsonWed, 21 Dec 2011 14:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Huawei hurls Gigabit broadband across 100 meters of old copper]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/huawei-hurls-gigabit-broadband-across-100-meters-of-old-copper/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/huawei-hurls-gigabit-broadband-across-100-meters-of-old-copper/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/huawei-hurls-gigabit-broadband-across-100-meters-of-old-copper/#comments There's little point in having a super-speedy optic backbone if broadband gets yellow-flagged on the final straight between junction box and home. But Huawei claims it's developed prototype DSL technology that can deliver 1Gb/s downstream and upstream over common twisted pair copper telephone cable for distances of up to 100 meters. This could provide a "cost effective option for telecom operators building ultra-broadband access networks," but will it be enough to overcome America's anxiety towards Chinese-made telecoms infrastructure? In any case, some lucky people have had fiber-to-the-home Gigabit broadband for months already.

Huawei hurls Gigabit broadband across 100 meters of old copper originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1000Mbs1gbps1gbsbroadbandcablecoppercopper cableCopperCablefibergigabitgigabit broadbandGigabitBroadbandHuaweiInternettwisted pairTwistedPairultra-broadbandwiredwired broadbandWiredBroadbandThu, 15 Dec 2011 16:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked draft shows LightSquared's network interferes with 'great majority' of GPS receivers, company pushes back]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/leaked-draft-shows-lightsquareds-network-interferes-with-great/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/leaked-draft-shows-lightsquareds-network-interferes-with-great/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/leaked-draft-shows-lightsquareds-network-interferes-with-great/#comments
According to leaked reports from government test drafts, LightSquared's technology causes "harmful interference" to the majority of GPS receivers. Addressing the allegations, LightSquared called the conclusions "patently false." It added, "We are outraged by the illegal leak of incomplete government data to news organizations. This breach attempts to draw an inaccurate conclusion to negatively influence the future of LightSquared and narrowly serve the business interests of the GPS industry." The company believes tests are inconclusive because they were completed at power levels up to 15 times higher than those that would be used in practice. By ignoring its commitment to work at a lower level to minimize interference, the company believes the conclusions are erroneous. It's important to note, however, that the NTIA will make the final determination about how many devices passed or failed, rather than the documents makers. And that assessment has not yet been made. Despite the ongoing dispute, the company has already managed to secure 30 partners ranging from Sprint to Best Buy, all hoping to cash in on a promised $7 per gigabyte price point. The FCC has given LightSquared the go-ahead to build the network, but will not allow for activation until approving the final round of government testing.

Amar Toor contributed to this report.

Leaked draft shows LightSquared's network interferes with 'great majority' of GPS receivers, company pushes back originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gbroadbandFCCgovernmentgpslightsquaredmobilemobile dataMobileDatamobilepostcrossnetworkntiaSanjiv AhujaSanjivAhujaspectrumwholesale networkWholesaleNetworkSun, 11 Dec 2011 15:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Ofcom releases 2012/13 plan: no UK 4G until you've eaten your vegetables]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/ofcom-releases-2012-13-plan-no-uk-4g-until-youve-eaten-your-ve/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/ofcom-releases-2012-13-plan-no-uk-4g-until-youve-eaten-your-ve/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/ofcom-releases-2012-13-plan-no-uk-4g-until-youve-eaten-your-ve/#comments
UK telecoms regulator Ofcom has released its draft plans for 2012/13 with big changes ahead for nerds on this side of the Atlantic. The auctioning off of the 800MHz and 2.6GHz spectrums for 4G internet is coming as soon as the British FCC has booted off the remaining TV services that still use 'em. It's gonna open an online complaints site (for when the Saturday evening show of your choice offends you), crack down on slow broadband speeds and keep the airways clear for the Olympic Games. Nearly 16 percent of Scotland and five percent of Wales has non-existent mobile coverage, something Ofcom's pledging to fix. TV-on-demand content also better keep its nose clean over the next 18 months -- it'll be getting the same level of government scrutiny that standard broadcasts receive. Rather wisely, the paper buries the real bad news: it looks like there won't be nationwide 4G mobile internet until 2015 -- so you win this round, America.

Ofcom releases 2012/13 plan: no UK 4G until you've eaten your vegetables originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 09:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4G600MHz800MHzBroadbandBroadband ServicesBroadbandServicesCoverageFCCFibreminipostOfcomOfcom ReportOfcomReportUKVideo on DemandVideoOnDemandVODWhite SpaceWhite Space InternetWhite Space UKWhiteSpaceWhiteSpaceInternetWhiteSpaceUkSat, 10 Dec 2011 09:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype co-founder's latest company signs deal with LightSquared, promises free broadband and voice services]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/skype-co-founders-latest-company-signs-deal-with-lightsquared/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/skype-co-founders-latest-company-signs-deal-with-lightsquared/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/skype-co-founders-latest-company-signs-deal-with-lightsquared/#comments A mysterious startup promising free wireless broadband and voice services to all Americans should rightly prompt a fair bit of skepticism, but FreedomPop isn't quite your average fly-by-night organization (despite appearances). It's backed by Skype co-founder Niklas Zennstrom, and it's just signed an agreement with LTE wholesaler LightSquared to provide the backbone for the service. Unfortunately, details remain decidedly light otherwise. The company says that the service will launch sometime in 2012 (LightSquared's network itself is slated to go live in the second half of the year, though it still faces some hurdles), and it will apparently be focused on serving markets most in need of wireless broadband initially, before rolling out across the country. As FierceCable notes, the service brings to mind the many free internet dial-up services of the 1990s, which relied largely on advertising, although it remains to be seen if that's the route FreedomPop has in mind.

Continue reading Skype co-founder's latest company signs deal with LightSquared, promises free broadband and voice services

Skype co-founder's latest company signs deal with LightSquared, promises free broadband and voice services originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 07:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtomicobroadbandfreedompoplightsquaredltemobilepostcrossNiklas ZennstromNiklasZennstromwireless broadbandWirelessBroadbandzennstromSat, 10 Dec 2011 07:41:00 EST<![CDATA[ViaSat-1 sends its first words through the stratosphere to cooing stateside relatives]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/viasat-1-sends-its-first-words-through-the-stratosphere-to-cooin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/viasat-1-sends-its-first-words-through-the-stratosphere-to-cooin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/viasat-1-sends-its-first-words-through-the-stratosphere-to-cooin/#comments
The ViaSat-1 story seems to be orbiting its way toward a happy ending in time for Christmas. The world's highest capacity telecommunications satellite sent down its first words on December 2nd: sadly it didn't chime a romantic "Mommy!" but a somber collection of high-bandwidth video streams, emails and websites. It'll continue back-and-forth testing, probably sending back pictures of red firetrucks until mid-December, which is when the company will assume "full control" (handed over from Space Systems / Loral) of the orbiting router and begin prepping commercial service before the end of the year. At which point, it'll be available to cover the US, Canada and Hawaii with KA-Band broadband service with partners WildBlue, Xplornet and JetBlue domestic flights.

Continue reading ViaSat-1 sends its first words through the stratosphere to cooing stateside relatives

ViaSat-1 sends its first words through the stratosphere to cooing stateside relatives originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 21:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>140Gbps140GbsBroadbandJetBlueLoralminipostSatelliteSatellite BroadbandSatelliteBroadbandSpaceSpace SystemsSpaceSystemsViaSat-1WildBlueXplornetFri, 09 Dec 2011 21:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Comcast says no to tiered data for its broadband service, hardcore Netflix users rejoice]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/comcast-says-no-to-tiered-data-for-its-broadband-service-hardco/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/comcast-says-no-to-tiered-data-for-its-broadband-service-hardco/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/comcast-says-no-to-tiered-data-for-its-broadband-service-hardco/#commentsLooking for a cable operator that won't charge you for all of those Rescue Me marathons you're having? If so, Comcast says it has no plans of implementing tiered data plans for its subscribers, unlike its wireless brethren. Citing that the move wouldn't be advantageous for the company's blooming broadband sector, Comcast Cable president Neil Smit and CFO Michael Angelakis eased the fears of video streaming customers on Monday, at least for the immediate future. Smit went on to say that "we don't want to nickel-and-dime customers at this point" -- so your extreme downloading habits are safe, for now. Bear in mind, Comcast does put a cap of 250GB per month on data consumption, so the idea full-on unlimited broadband is still just wishful thinking.

Comcast says no to tiered data for its broadband service, hardcore Netflix users rejoice originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandcablecomcastdatadata plandata plansDataPlanDataPlansinternetinternet serviceinternet service providerInternetServiceInternetServiceProviderispplanplanstiered dataTieredDataWed, 07 Dec 2011 11:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Brazil wants to build South American broadband network, says it will bring down costs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/brazil-wants-to-build-south-american-broadband-network-says-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/brazil-wants-to-build-south-american-broadband-network-says-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/brazil-wants-to-build-south-american-broadband-network-says-it/#comments
A pan-South American broadband network: It sounds rather ambitious, but that's exactly what Brazil proposed yesterday, during a meeting of the continent's communications ministers. In an address to his colleagues, Brazil's Paulo Bernardo called for the creation of "a ring of South American fiber optic networks" encompassing the entire continent. This "South American solution," he added, would lower the costs of internet and mobile access across the region, benefiting consumers and ISPs alike. "Connection costs for South American users represent on average between 35 and 40 percent of the total price of the service," the minister explained. "An Internet provider in South America pays, in the best of cases, three times more for the connection than in the United States. This situation must change urgently." Bernardo estimates that the initiative would cost about $60 million and could be completed within two years, though it'll likely have to jump through a few more hoops before nearing reality.

Brazil wants to build South American broadband network, says it will bring down costs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilbroadbandbroadband networkBroadbandNetworkcolombiacommunicationsconnectivitycontinentfiber opticFiberOpticgovernmentinfrastructureinvestmentmoneynetworkPaulo BernardoPauloBernardopoliticsprivate sectorPrivateSectorproposalpublic sectorPublicSectorsouth americasouth american broadbandSouthAmericaSouthAmericanBroadbandWed, 30 Nov 2011 09:47:00 EST