Rhode Island aims for leadership in 5G wireless networks

November 30, 2016 4:12 pm

By News Staff

news@abc6.com

The Associated Press

Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo says she’s positioning her state to be the first to deploy fifth-generation wireless technology, known as 5G.

The Democratic governor said Wednesday that the state has issued a request inviting recommendations from national telecommunications firms for making the state a hub for 5G networks. Responses are due by Jan. 13.

Internet connections in 5G are expected to be up to 100 times faster than today’s 4G networks.

Rhode Island Chief Innovation Officer Richard Culatta says the state’s small size, population density and regulatory flexibility make it a good place to test new models.

U.S. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler has called developing 5G a national priority. The European Union is also aiming to have 5G technology deployed by 2025.