FCC Axes Copper Rules to Fast-Track Fiber Shift

Source: bloomberg.com

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a plan to eliminate "copper retirement" rules that forced telecom companies to maintain outdated copper wire networks long after deploying modern fiber optics. Major carriers like AT&T and Verizon pushed for this, arguing it would cut unnecessary expenses and accelerate fiber rollout nationwide. The decision matters because it could lower costs for broadband expansion but risks leaving some customers, especially in rural areas, without reli