Wednesday, June 15, 2011

WildBlue Launches Low-Cost, Rural Broadband Plan

Carlsbad-based ViaSat, the developer of wireless and satellite communications products, said today that its WildBlue satellite Internet subsidiary will begin offering up a low price, high speed Internet service to serve rural markets. The firm said the new, low cost service is being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and will allows eligible customers to connect to high speed internet for $39.95 per month. WildBlue said the new plan will provide lifetime pricing, and began selling June 3rd. The government's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act included significant funding to help connect rural households to the Internet, as part of an effort to help create jobs in the U.S. The firm is also not charging for activation, equipment, or standard installation as part of the new plan, at least until the Recovery Act funds are exhausted. The firm's lowest price plans were previously around $49.95.

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