As retailers add 5G technology to their existing network architecture, the use of personalized digital signage, augmented reality, virtual reality, video and pattern recognition of shoppers and interactive mobile apps will become part of a typical shopping experience. The future of retail "is going to be much more high-tech, connected experience for both customers and businesses, complete with instantaneous communication systems and mirrors that can recognize tags on clothing." Brian Cabe, vice president and general manager of Crown Castle, said "those insights into customer behavior supplied by 5G network data will offer companies opportunities to make real-time adjustments to improve the customer experience."
Vapor IO forms alliance for full-service edge computing at its tower data centers
Vapor IO announced the formation of the Kinetic Edge Alliance, "an assortment of edge computing-focused partners that will support Vapor's data centers with the infrastructure, tools, and expertise needed for successful edge deployments." By the end of the year, Vapor says, it wil...
City of Loveland urges support of federal wireless broadband bill
The city of Loveland, Colorado, sent letters this month to Rep. Joe Neguse, Sen. Cory Gardner and Sen. Michael Bennett urging them to support and co-sponsor a bill to repeal federal regulations limiting the ability of local governments to regulate the deployment of 5G wireless inf...
Cleveland disputes AT&T’s claims that “a lack of urgency” is hindering 5G development, rebuts foot-dragging complaint
On Wednesday, Mayor Frank Jackson’s administration disputed AT&T’s contention that inaction by the city has thwarted the company’s efforts to invest millions into a 5G network in Cleveland. The city granted nearly all the permits AT&T requested for new fiber line...
White House releases update on rural broadband initiative
The White House has released the American Broadband Initiative Milestones Report, which it bills as key points on a "roadmap" for increasing rural broadband access and goosing private sector investment in broadband infrastructure, with a focus on leveraging government assets and a...
San Jose launches new fund to bring internet to thousands of off-line homes
On Tuesday, the city of San Jose created the San Jose Digital Inclusion Fund — the largest of its kind in the country. The aim of this fund is to bring broadband access to some 50,000 households over the next decade and teach residents who may be new to the web the digital skills ...
Legislature looks at ways to increase rural broadband service
Legislators are considering a surcharge on wireless calls to raise $10 million a year that utilities could use for internet projects in rural Oregon. The average cell phone user could see an increase of $4 to $8 a year. The surcharge would apply only to calls within the state and ...