The FCC released its new Mobile Speed Test App. Consumers can use the free app to test their mobile broadband speeds and challenge the agency’s broadband maps.
The new app features an enhanced user interface that makes challenging the accuracy of the provider-reported mobile coverage data even easier, according to the agency. It replaces the original FCC Speed Test app.
It enables users to obtain free, open, and transparent information about the performance of their mobile network. Speed test data from the app help to improve the accuracy of the mobile coverage information displayed on the agency’s broadband maps page. Users can submit their tests to the FCC either as challenges to provider-reported coverage, or as crowdsource data that is used to inform the Commission’s verification and audit work, as well as other policy decisions.
New features include:
- “Repeated test” functionality allows users to conduct repeated tests without having to enter and certifies information before each individual test. This also allows for hands-free mobile tests while driving.
- An in-app map overlay displaying the area where a test was taken.
- The ability for users to log into the national broadband maps to review their speed test results and see them on a map.
“In today’s digital world, a fast and reliable internet connection is essential for everything from education to healthcare to work and staying connected with family and friends,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “Consumers deserve to know where they have mobile coverage and at what speeds and the FCC wants to include their experiences in our effort to create more precise coverage maps. Our new app makes it easier to share real-world experience with connectivity, empowering consumers and making it possible for up-to-date and crowdsourced information to inform our mapping.”
The updated app is available in both the Google Play Store for Android devices at: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.agence3pp.fcc and in the Apple App Store for iOS devices: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fcc-mobile-speed-test/id6470025404.
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