Move over, Google Fiber. There’s (maybe) a new gigabit internet game in town, and it’s (maybe) coming to 100 cities and municipalities by way through AT&T, at some point in the future. Maybe.
Today AT&T announced that it has its fiber internet sights set on 100 U.S. cities and municipalities, 21 of which are major metropolitan areas. It’s not a done deal yet though, so don’t celebrate. AT&T says its working with these markets to roll it out. Per AT&T:
AT&T will work with local leaders in these markets to discuss ways to bring the service to their communities. Similar to previously announced metro area selections in Austin and Dallas and advanced discussions in Raleigh-Durham and Winston-Salem, communities that have suitable network facilities, and show the strongest investment cases based on anticipated demand and the most receptive policies will influence these future selections and coverage maps within selected areas.
The following are the areas AT&T has its eyes on:
Atlanta
Augusta
Charlotte
Chicago
Cleveland
Ft. Worth
Ft. Lauderdale
Greensboro
Houston
Jacksonville
Kansas City
Los Angeles
Miami
Nashville
Oakland
Orlando
San Antonio
San Diego
St. Louis
San Francisco
San Jose
If Google Fiber is any indication, it will take some time to actually deploy if it happens at all. But the promise—or at least the shadow of a promise—of more fiber internet in more cities is a good thing. Fast internet! Competition! It’s good stuff. Especially considering the world of regular cable internet is looking uglier by the minute. [Ars Technicavia AT&T]
