Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2024/10/29/fcc_chair_gives_a_taste/
Source: The Register
Title: FCC chair: Mobile dead spots will end when space-based and ground comms merge
Feedly Summary: Jessica Rosenworcel looks at policy challenges for the next decade
The chair of America’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) foresees a single network future where space-based comms will be integrated with terrestrial networks to ensure connectivity anywhere.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
**Summary:** The chair of the FCC, Jessica Rosenworcel, envisions a future where space-based and terrestrial networks are fully integrated to enhance connectivity. She emphasizes the necessity of broadband access for all and warns about the risks posed by advancing AI technologies. The initiatives discussed highlight the importance of cybersecurity and the role of regulation in fostering secure, trusted technologies in an increasingly wireless and connected world.
**Detailed Description:**
Jessica Rosenworcel, the FCC chair, shared her insights regarding the future of communications during a recent event at Princeton University. Her core proposals center around the following key points:
– **Integration of Networks:** She predicts a single network future that seamlessly combines space-based communications with terrestrial networks, ensuring connectivity even in disaster scenarios. This development aims to eliminate mobile dead zones, enhancing overall resilience in communication systems.
– **Universal Access to Digital Networks:** Rosenworcel stressed the importance of making broadband accessible to all individuals, regardless of location. She pointed out that initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program were essential for closing the digital divide, although recent funding shortfalls have threatened such programs.
– **Support for Digital Trust:** With the increase in connected devices, Rosenworcel highlighted the need for new policies that enhance digital trust. She announced the introduction of the Cyber Trust Mark, a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program intended to inform consumers about the security of their devices, certified against standards set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
– **Concerns Over Artificial Intelligence:** Warnings about the risks associated with AI technologies, including voice cloning and misinformation, were made by Rosenworcel. She indicated the importance of transparency in AI usage, advocating for norms that inform the public about synthetic content.
– **Spectrum Management:** The FCC chair discussed the evolving needs of the wireless industry, specifically regarding spectrum scarcity. She mentioned the exploration of cognitive radios and repurposing underutilized spectrum for commercial use as potential solutions.
– **Future of Cybersecurity:** The necessity for robust cybersecurity measures was underscored, especially as interconnected devices rise to potentially over a trillion. The Cyber Trust Mark aims to promote security across various consumer devices, enhancing confidence in their usage.
Overall, Rosenworcel’s predictions encompass a comprehensive vision for modern communication that is equitable, secure, and resilient, urging policymakers to adapt in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Her remarks resonate strongly with professionals in AI, cybersecurity, and infrastructure, compelling a proactive approach to governance and technology deployment.