Google is planning to build and test ultra high-speed broadband networks in a small number of trial locations across the US. It will deliver internet speeds more than 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. It will focus on next-generation apps to see what developers and users can do with ultra high-speeds. In addition, new ways to build fibre networks will be tested and key lessons learned with the world will be shared. Google plans to operate an open access network, giving users the choice of multiple service providers. Google said it will manage its network in an open, non-discriminatory and transparent way. As with its Wi-Fi network in Mountain View, California, the purpose of this project is to experiment and learn. As a first step, Google is putting out a request for information (RFI) to help identify interested communities. Responses from local government as well as members of the public are expected until 26 March. Google will announce its target communities later this year.
