Broadband State of the Union: Urban Innovation and Rural Challenges


 
In the latest episode of Amphenol Broadband Solutions’ Wavelengths podcast, host Daniel Litwin sat down with Tyler Cooper, Editor-in-Chief at BroadbandNow Research, for a deep dive into the current landscape of broadband deployment and access across the United States.

With 2025 underway, the conversation tackled key trends shaping the broadband industry, including the contrast between urban and rural connectivity, new technology rollouts, and the critical role of federal funding.

The discussion examined how smart city initiatives are accelerating broadband development in urban areas, with AI-powered infrastructure and fiber deployment setting the stage for the cities of tomorrow. In contrast, rural communities continue to face significant hurdles, with over 22 million Americans still lacking basic broadband access. Cooper emphasized that while progress is being made, closing the rural-urban digital divide requires more than just infrastructure—it demands smarter funding strategies and localized decision-making.

Key topics included the transformative potential of the BEAD program, the largest broadband infrastructure investment in U.S. history, and how state-level broadband offices are uniquely positioned to tailor solutions to local needs. The episode also highlighted the rise of fixed wireless access and fiber as critical technologies driving connectivity, while acknowledging the challenges of accurately measuring broadband access in underserved areas.

As broadband technology continues to evolve, Cooper and Litwin agreed that both rural and urban environments must be equipped not only with access but with future-proof networks capable of supporting the growing demands of digital life.

Recent Episodes

Despite growing gender diversity in many industries, the security field continues to be largely male-dominated. However, that landscape is evolving as more women in security step into leadership roles, challenge long-standing norms, and contribute to a more inclusive culture. Through mentorship, development programs, and increased visibility, this shift is not only empowering individuals but…

From AI-driven surveillance to dynamic mobile guarding, the way we secure commercial real estate, corporate campuses, and critical infrastructure is undergoing a major transformation. As high-value assets face increasingly complex threats, security is no longer just about cameras and guards—it’s about predictive insights, global awareness, and resilience planning. According to a Securitas discussion,…

As global reliance on data centers surges, so do the demands for highly trained security personnel to protect these mission-critical infrastructures. The complexity of modern data centers—ranging from physical access requirements to AI-integrated systems—requires a new caliber of officer. According to Uptime Institute, 60% of data center outages cost more than $100,000, emphasizing the…