Have you ever wondered just how fast your broadband service really is?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued a press release today reiterating that it wants the public to find out the answer to that question by downloading its “FCC Speed App.” The app allows consumers to measure the speed of their mobile and in-home broadband networks, while also contributing data to the FCC’s Measuring Broadband America program.
The app is part of the larger Broadband Data Collection effort, which will allow the FCC to improve its broadband deployment data and create more accurate maps. In doing so, the FCC can target funding and broadband services to areas most in need.
“To close the gap between digital haves and have nots, we are working to build a comprehensive, user-friendly dataset on broadband availability,” Acting FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in the press release. “Expanding the base of consumers who use the FCC Speed Test app will enable us to provide improved coverage information to the public and add to the measurement tools we’re developing to show where broadband is truly available throughout the United States.”
According to the press release, the app will also allow users to “challenge provider-submitted maps when the Broadband Data Collection systems become available,” but did not specify when those systems will be made available.
The FCC Speed Test app can be found in the Apple Store for iOS devices and the Google Play Store for Android devices.
