The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a new Mobile Speed Test app that will help consumers ensure the accuracy of provider-reported mobile coverage data, as well as improve the accuracy of the National Broadband Map.
The app, which is free to download, includes a few main features:
- “Repeated test” functionality allowing users to conduct repeated tests without having to enter and certify 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 Map 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 a more precise map of available coverage. 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 new app replaces the original FCC Speed Test app and is part of the FCC’s Broadband Data Collection program. The FCC said the goal of the app is to enable users to obtain free, open, and transparent information about the performance of their mobile network.
Additionally, speed test data from the app will help to improve the accuracy of the mobile coverage information displayed on the agency’s National Broadband Map. App 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 FCC’s verification and audit work, as well as other policy decisions.
Users of the original FCC Speed Test app will receive an in-app notification inviting them to visit the app store and download the new app. The original FCC Speed Test app is no longer allowing users to run speed tests.
