Over the years, there has been an ongoing argument over whether broadband should be considered an essential utility similar to that of basic utilities, such as water, light, heating, waste management and others. Making broadband more affordable and accessible by labeling it as a utility promotes social mobility through enhanced access to information and education, among many other aspects.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further reinforced the importance of broadband in daily activities, especially with lockdowns occurring in countries across the globe. As the way people work and interact was altered to what is emerging as the “new normal,” it is likely to speed up the expansion of broadband capacity and the implementation of 5G technology.