The Broadband Data Task Force has published a new map that shows data on 4G LTE mobile broadband coverage and availability throughout the United States. This first-of-its-kind map provides the public with more information on mobile service coverage while the FCC works to fully implement its Broadband Data Collection program.
The map shows 4G LTE mobile coverage as of May 15, 2021, with broadband and voice on separate layers, for each of the nation’s four largest mobile carriers: AT&T Mobility, T-Mobile, UScellular, and Verizon. These four mobile wireless service providers have voluntarily submitted the coverage data used to create this map as part of the effort to improve the data on mobile broadband availability throughout the United States that is collected and made available to the public by the Commission.
This map provides a preview of how the mobile data to be collected under the parameters for the Broadband Data Collection will look. These parameters are meant to improve the specificity and consistency of broadband availability data collected by the FCC. The FCC will also use the data shown in this map to assist its ongoing efforts to develop and test the Broadband Data Collection systems and platforms.
Other Mapping Improvements Are Coming
Once the Broadband Data Collection is fully implemented, the FCC’s broadband maps will include additional layers and functions. For fixed internet service, the maps will show – on a house-by-house, location-by-location basis – where broadband internet access service is available, meaning that it has a broadband connection or could be connected within 10 business days with a standard installation. The FCC will standardize location data through the use of a Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric, a common dataset of all structures in the United States where mass-market fixed broadband internet access service can be installed.
The Broadband Data Collection maps will also incorporate systems and processes for the validation and verification of provider-submitted data to improve their accuracy, as well as a user-friendly challenge process that will allow consumers, state, local, and Tribal governments, and other third parties, to dispute the information shown on the maps.
We will provide updates as more information related to the full set of Broadband Data Collection systems and processes becomes available.