Mobile Issues | Wireless Freedom | Wireless Innovation

Mobile Broadband

Mobile connectivity is helping the Internet break free from the home office and workplace and be a constant, ‘always on’ resource in people’s lives. With the rise of smartphones that put PC-like capabilities and connectivity in the palms of our hands — people can stay on top of work and home, access information and resources and, yes, play games, listen to music and watch entertaining videos — from anywhere. More and more today, diverse Americans have enhanced access to the vast opportunities thanks to mobile broadband.

Green Technology

As the wireless sector continues to evolve and new devices hit the market with unprecedented frequency, it is exceedingly important that users remain committed to making the most out of the wireless devices they discard. Device recycling is crucial not only in mitigating waste but also in providing reusable materials that serve as the basis of new electronic models. In an ever-changing mobile landscape, proper disposal of end-of-life electronics should continue to serve as a cornerstone of responsible wireless usage.

Net Neutrality

While there are many definitions of network neutrality, in its purest form, network neutrality is the idea that all bits traveling over networks should be treated alike and that consumers should control their online experience and remain free to access the legal content of their choice. Controversy now surrounds this phrase as it has become synonymous with calls for regulation of the Internet.

Mobile Ability

The mobile device has evolved from a phone into a robust innovation tool, a way to access the Internet on-the-go, and a conduit for the ever-expanding universe of mobile applications. One clear area of success is in the disability community where evolving wireless services and applications help connect those with disabilities.

mHealth

Innovations in wireless technology have the potential to significantly improve the quality of healthcare, lower medical costs and expand the geographic reach of our nation’s medical professionals. From bringing cutting-edge expertise to rural towns to improving the availability of timely, accurate data bedside to promoting prevention and self-care, wireless innovation will lead the next great revolution in American health care.

Spectrum Demand

As we increasingly rely on mobile connectivity throughout our society, demand for spectrum is increasing exponentially. This means the government, which controls how this precious and finite resource is utilized, must move quickly and responsibly to make more spectrum available to keep pace with consumer demand and to enable the next wave of mobile innovation and economic opportunities.

Wireless Service Taxes

In recent years, wireless users have become a favorite target for new state and local taxes. Today, state and local taxes and fees average more than 15 percent of consumers' cell phone bills. That's double the cost of ordinary sales taxes.

Wireless users already pay more than their share in taxes. Officials should help ease this unnecessary burden rather than add to it.