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Why 5G Cell Service Won't Solve Vermont's Broadband Woes

5G networks would require new antennas on existing telecommunication towers.
Emanuele D'Amico
/
iStock
5G networks would require new antennas on existing telecommunication towers.

The promises of 5G - the fifth-generation cellular technology - are incredibly fast speeds and the ability to connect thousands of devices at once. But according to the state's chief of telecommunications Vermonters hoping the technology will bring much-delayed broadband and cellular coverage to rural areas of the state will be disappointed.

Clay Purvis, director of telecommunications and connectivity for Vermont’s Department of Public Service, joined Vermont Edition to explain the promise of 5G and why the technology will likely make existing coverage faster rather than increase coverage where it doesn't exist.

And he explained why the slow rollout of 5G means it’s unlikely to bring relief to Vermont's broadband woes.

Broadcast live on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019 at noon; rebroadcast at 7 p.m.

Jane Lindholm is the host, executive producer and creator of But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids. In addition to her work on our international kids show, she produces special projects for Vermont Public. Until March 2021, she was host and editor of the award-winning Vermont Public program Vermont Edition.
Matt Smith worked for Vermont Public from 2017 to 2023 as managing editor and senior producer of Vermont Edition.
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