In a press conference last week, Charlotte Mayor Dan Clodfelter – along with Google representatives – announced that Google Fiber is coming to Charlotte, in addition to three metro areas, including Raleigh-Durham, Atlanta, and Nashville.
With Fiber already installed in Austin, Provo, and Kansas City, the major tech company revealed that their exploration work is completed and they are ready to expand their network. According to Clodfelter, “This is a major win for our city,” he added, “This is validation that Charlotte intends to be, and is positioned to be, a major player in the digital economy of the 21st century.”
Google Fiber Basics
So, what is Google Fiber exactly? Google Fiber is a high-speed Internet service, offering a connection speed “100 times faster than today’s basic broadband, paired with crystal clear high definition TV.” Using a fiber optic cable infrastructure, Google Inc. can provide gigabit Internet, which would allow users to get what they want instantaneously – without buffering or waiting on long download times.
Neighborhoods receive Fiber services based on the demand; so, if a neighborhood meets the sign-up goal and the qualifications for construction, then they will get Google Fiber. Once the construction is complete, people can begin paying for services. Right now, prices have not been determined.
While many predict one to two years for Google to prepare the fiber optic cable network, there is no set timetable. Currently, Google is working with the city to plan the network; when the plan is ready, they can begin construction. However, it will take time.
Impact on Charlotte
Currently, AT&T and Time Warner Cable are the primary providers of broadband in the Charlotte area. While the companies are preparing to provide updated and gigabit Internet, Google Fiber has already drawn widespread interest. According to a poll by the Charlotte Business Journal, more than 60% of the people in Charlotte are ready to make the switch, as they are “dying for another option for Internet service.”
In a conference call, Kevin Lo, Google Fiber Director of Business, said “This marks a big milestone for Charlotte, “ adding that the service, “will help put Charlotte on par with the fastest cities in the world. It’s a big deal.” Additionally, the Charlotte Business Journal said, “The high speeds are promised to be a boon to economic development as small businesses, high-tech startups and corporations see benefits from the faster flow of information.”
SeedSpark is excited for the potential Google Fiber has. As a technology business, we can’t wait for ultra high-speed Internet, and hope to see Charlotte grow as a new technology hub.