Microsoft signs agreement with RTO Wireless to bring internet access to unserved rural regions of New York and Maine

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Microsoft today signed an agreement with RTO Wireless to bring internet access to unserved rural regions of New York and Maine using TV white spaces and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). During the initial roll out phase, RTO Wireless will deliver fixed and mobile wireless services across 16 counties in Maine and 20 counties in New York.

“Without reliable internet access, many people living in rural America are unable to take advantage of the same opportunities as their urban neighbors,” said Shelley McKinley, Microsoft’s head of Technology and Corporate Responsibility. “We are excited to partner with RTO Wireless to bring broadband to students, farmers, educators and business owners across the Southern Tier and North Country of New York and Western Maine so that they have an equal opportunity to learn, grow, contribute and prosper in the 21st century economy.”

Steve Hubbard, CEO of RTO Wireless said the following regarding the agreement,

“The TV white spaces technology ecosystem championed by Microsoft provides a critical low-band function enabling tremendous RF propagation over a large service area. Microsoft is contributing tremendous resources to solving the lack of broadband options in rural America. Joining the Microsoft Airband Initiative will enable RTO to enhance the educational, healthcare and agricultural services that can be provided to the rural communities. RTO is proud to launch its initial networks in New York and Maine with an impressive consortium of technology partners to deliver exciting applications and services.”

Learn more about this announcement here.

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