美国2600万人没接入宽带，原因何在？

Core Insights - The development level of broadband in the United States is not as advanced as commonly perceived, facing significant challenges in affordability and access [1][10]. Affordability Issues - A report by BroadbandNow highlights a "devastating" affordability gap, with only 0.2% of residents in Alaska able to afford fixed broadband services despite 74.2% of the area having infrastructure [1][5]. - The disparity in broadband access is exacerbated by high costs, making it unaffordable for many households even in areas with existing coverage [4][10]. Coverage Disparities - The states with the lowest broadband development levels are primarily located west of the Mississippi River, where geographic and demographic factors lead to high infrastructure costs and limited operator interest [3][6]. - In contrast, states with the highest broadband levels, such as New Jersey, have nearly universal coverage and significantly better performance metrics compared to states like Alaska [6][10]. FCC Data Discrepancies - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) previously reported that 19.6 million Americans lacked access to broadband, but BroadbandNow's analysis suggests the actual number is closer to 26 million, indicating a discrepancy of 6.4 million [7][10]. - The FCC's reliance on self-reported data from service providers has raised concerns about the accuracy of coverage statistics [7][10]. Policy Adjustments - The U.S. is shifting its broadband policy focus from a preference for fiber technology to a more cost-effective and speed-oriented approach, benefiting fixed wireless access (FWA) and low Earth orbit satellite technologies [2][10]. - The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program is now emphasizing "technology neutrality," allowing for a broader range of deployment methods to address affordability and access issues [10].