In a strategic move to gain approval for its $9.6 billion acquisition of Frontier Communications, Verizon has pledged to provide affordable broadband options to low-income residents in California. As part of the agreement, Verizon will offer fiber-to-the-home services at a fixed price of just $20 per month, with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 300Mbps, ensuring high-quality internet access for underserved communities.

The company also plans to introduce a fixed wireless broadband service at the same $20 monthly rate, delivering download speeds of 100Mbps and upload speeds of 20Mbps. These plans are set to be available for a minimum of ten years, reflecting Verizon’s commitment to long-term affordability in the region. After three years, Verizon will make “commercially reasonable efforts” to enhance the service speeds while maintaining the $20 price point, demonstrating a focus on continuous improvement without price hikes.

The agreement, filed jointly by Verizon and the California Public Advocates Office, requires approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). If approved, this initiative will serve as a significant step towards expanding affordable broadband access in California, bridging the digital divide for many low-income households.

For further insights into broadband affordability initiatives and regulatory processes, refer to resources such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) broadband programs and the CPUC’s official guidelines.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com