Great news for Americans stuck with 56k: the US may soon offer free wireless broadband Internet. The idea is part of a new plan (PDF) intended to increase the number of Americans using broadband at home from 65% to 90%.
FCC chairman Julius Genachowski believes the National Broadband Plan would bridge the digital divide and transform America into a nation where broadband is accessible by all. Genachowski added that broadband is essential for the informational needs of communities in a democracy, and without it, a new category of second-class citizens will emerge.
The FCC also recommends various public educational programs for digital literacy. At this point, few details have been provided about how it would carry out the plan or who might qualify. The Commission will deliver its National Broadband Plan to Congress next Wednesday, so more information should be available then.