Google to deploy experimental fibre network in US

After urging the FCC to look at new ways to deliver creative applications in its National Broadband Plan in the US, Google decided to conduct an experiment of its own, in deploying a small-scale fibre broadband network.

Google recently announced plans to build and test ultra high-speed broadband networks in a small number of trial locations across the US to deliver internet speeds at what it claims will be over 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today with 1 Gbps fibre-to-the-home connections. The company plans to offer service at a competitive price to at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people.

The goal is to experiment with new ways to help make internet access better and faster for everyone. Here are some specific things that Google has in mind:

• Next-generation apps: Google wants to see what developers and users can do with ultra high speeds, whether it’s creating new bandwidth-intensive ‘killer apps’ and services, or other uses not yet imagined;
• New deployment techniques: test new ways to build fibre networks and, to help inform and support deployments elsewhere, Google intends to share key lessons learned with the world; and
• Openness and choice: operate an ‘open access’ network, giving users the choice of multiple service providers and manage the network in an open, non-discriminatory and transparent way.

Here are some of the applications Google envisioned:

• Streaming three-dimensional medical imaging into a rural health clinic over the web and discussing a unique condition with a specialist in New York;
• Downloading a high-definition, full-length feature film in less than five minutes;
• Collaborating with classmates around the world while watching live 3D video of a university lecture.

The purpose of this project is to experiment and learn. Network providers are making real progress to expand and improve high-speed internet access, but there’s still more to be done.

Google states that it doesn’t think it has all the answers but, through its trial, hopes to make a meaningful contribution to the shared goal of delivering faster and better internet for everyone.

As a first step, Google recently issued a request for information (RFI) to help identify interested communities, welcoming responses from local governments and members of the public. Responses will be collected until 26 March, followed by an announcement of the target communities later this year.