Core Points - Gen Mobile has launched a federal Lifeline program to provide monthly government-subsidized service discounts for low-income and underserved households [1][2] - The Lifeline program offers eligible customers a free talk, text, and 4.5GB data plan, enhancing connectivity to essential services [2][3] - Gen Mobile is an approved Lifeline provider in 40 states, with plans to expand to additional states soon [3] Service Details - The Lifeline program is available in over 20,000 zip codes across the United States, with options for more data through additional state and Tribal subsidies [2] - Gen Mobile's no-contract plans start at $10 per month, allowing customers to apply their Lifeline benefit to further reduce their bills [4][5] - The company offers a convenient sign-up process for the Lifeline program, taking less than five minutes to determine eligibility [5] Company Commitment - Gen Mobile emphasizes the importance of high-speed mobile services for all Americans, aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote digital equity [3] - The company provides affordable phone options, including popular brands like Apple, Samsung, and Motorola, starting at $10 [5] - Gen Mobile operates on America's largest 5G networks, ensuring reliable coverage for its customers [4]

Politics & Policy - Senator Ran Paul was allegedly uninvited to a White House picnic due to his opposition to the budget bill, tariffs, and other Trump policies [1][2] - The uninvitation was described as "petty" and immature [2][3] Broadband & AI Regulation - A budget package includes a moratorium on AI regulation by states for 10 years, potentially impacting broadband funding [6] - States that regulate AI may not receive Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding, which is crucial for closing the digital divide [6] - Broadband is considered essential for the economy, online learning, and emergency services like next-generation 911 [7][8] - The policy is seen as coercively pushing AI legislation by weaponizing infrastructure funding [9] - Concerns exist about the rapid advancement of AI and the potential impact of limiting regulation for several years, especially on children's online safety, consumer fraud, and surveillance [11][12][13] - There is a missed opportunity for Congress to establish regulations for AI [14]

Core Insights - Veea Inc. and StarGroup have formed a strategic alliance to enhance digital inclusion and connectivity in underserved rural communities in Mexico [1][2] - The partnership aims to provide high-performance, cybersecure, and affordable digital services, addressing the digital divide and promoting digital equity for millions of Mexicans [2][3] Company Overview - Veea Inc. is a global innovator in edge computing and AI-driven platforms, headquartered in New York City, with a focus on advanced networking and computing technologies [7][8] - StarGroup is a leading telecommunications and entertainment provider in Mexico, offering services through its STAR brands, including StarTV, StarGo, StarLine, and StarLink [5][6] Partnership Details - The collaboration will leverage Veea's virtual Trusted Broadband Access (vTBA) platform to deliver intelligent internet access and IoT integration directly to users' devices [3][4] - StarGroup's deployment of Veea's technology will support various local IoT applications, including precision agriculture, energy monitoring, and public safety [3][4] Strategic Goals - The partnership is committed to empowering communities by providing real-time AI-driven applications and enabling participation in the digital economy [4][3] - The initiative aims to build a foundation for a smarter, more inclusive Mexico, ensuring that every family can access digital services regardless of their geographical location [3][4]

Legacy copper networks are no longer the most viable means to deliver the high-speed connectivity that families and communities need to compete, thrive and grow in today's world CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, a group of leading telecommunications companies published a strategic paper outlining the advantages of fiber optic, wireless, satellite and coaxial cable technologies for connectivity as copper networks across the country continue to deteriorate and become obsolete. The paper, ...