As the most digitally-connected generation, Gen-Z understands the power of innovation and how to leverage technology for work, education, social interaction and civic engagement. Nearly two-thirds of Gen-Z adults say they are constantly online, which underscores the importance of having equitable access to reliable connectivity throughout our daily lives.
5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is bringing new broadband choice to millions of individuals and businesses across the country – expanding access and increasing choice for high speed, affordable home internet. More competition and choice for broadband consumers can help ensure more Americans can get connected, creating economic opportunities and helping to close the digital divide.
By 2030, Gen-Z is expected to make up 30% of the workforce. As the first generation to grow up with the internet, smartphones and other technological advances, we are now driving new expectations for workplace structure and culture that is shifting when and where employees work. These values are not only transforming traditional workplace policies to attract and retain Gen-Z talent, but they are leading to new pathways to success.
Studies show Gen-Z has an extremely strong interest in pursuing entrepreneurship compared to other generations, and we are leading the creator economy, sharing and monetizing experiences on popular social media platforms. Without access to reliable, high-speed home broadband that 5G FWA can provide, Gen-Z would not be able to effectively participate nor define our own success in today’s digital economy.
A more flexible workforce also means removing geographical barriers that have traditionally mandated where people live. Expanding connectivity with 5G FWA into rural areas can help close the digital divide and provide people living in these communities with greater access to employment, education and health care that may have previously been unavailable. 5G FWA has the potential to serve nearly half of rural households with high-speed internet, according to a report from Accenture, making it much more viable for Gen-Z to live in these communities.
Expanding access to 5G FWA isn’t only changing the home broadband market. Anywhere providers are bringing 5G FWA, they are also enhancing mobile services, as the two offerings use the same network. For Gen-Z individuals, who are more likely than other generations to own a smartphone, wireless connectivity is an integral part of our day-to-day life. One in five Gen-Z adults are wireless dependent, meaning they rely on their smartphone as their connection to the internet.
To ensure everyone is able to take advantage of the economic opportunities, societal benefits and consumer savings that 5G FWA can provide, the U.S. wireless industry needs more 5G spectrum. At its simplest, the more spectrum the U.S. wireless industry can use, the more home broadband competition they can provide, and the more consumers will benefit. That’s a win-win scenario for everyone.
