Internet access speeds on fixed and mobile networks are growing fast, Ookla data shows. In 2029 along, global fixed network speeds grew about 32 percent.
The latest data from Ookla’s Speedtest service also shows that U.S. fixed network internet access speeds are on par with South Korea, for example, while mobile access speeds are on par with Western Europe.
That might be significant as South Korea generally is considered at leader in internet access speeds, while Western Europe is among regions generally considered more developed.
Mobile performance should change significantly, however, as upgrades to 5G using millimeter wave frequencies takes hold.
Such metrics should always be kept in context, however. What matters with the application of technology is what impact can be wrung from the investments. Speed, coverage, latency and price do matter, but only as enablers of economic and social impact.
The Ookla data do tend to challenge common assertions, repeated often, including the belief that U.S. internet access is slow and expensive, or that internet service providers have not managed to make gigabit speeds available on a widespread basis. In fact, gigabit coverage is about 80 percent, but take rates might be as low as two percent.
Other statements, such as the claim that U.S. internet access prices or mobile prices are high, are not made in context, or qualified and adjusted for currency, local prices and incomes or other relevant inputs, including the comparison methodology itself.
Both U.S. fixed network internet prices and U.S. mobile costs have dropped since 2000, for example.
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