This is sort of nifty.
The Federal Communications Commission on Monday called on users to test their internet speeds using the FCC Speed Test app to help further its research into broadband availability through the Measuring Broadband America Program.
The FCC offered the following comments as to how this will help its efforts to provide improved coverage information to the public:
“To close the gap between digital haves and have nots, we are working to build a comprehensive, user-friendly dataset on broadband availability. Expanding the base of consumers who use the FCC Speed Test app will enable us to provide improved coverage information to the public and add to the measurement tools we’re developing to show where broadband is truly available throughout the United States,” said Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel.
The app, which is available for both the iPhone and iPad, allows consumers to measure the speeds of their mobile and in-home broadband networks. It evaluates download and upload speed, latency, jitter, and packet loss, and it tracks speed data over time. It will also be used to challenge provider-submitted maps when Broadband Data Collection Systems become available.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
The FCC Speed Test App is available for free and requires iOS 12.0 or later or iPadOS 12.0 or later to install and run.