Global internet speed is picking up. In 2017, world internet speeds increased more than 30%. Adriane Blum, Head of Communications at Ookla, a company specialized in broadband testing, network diagnostic applications, and data, was with us to discuss what's driving this improvement.
With the FCC rolling back net neutrality regulations, many questions about the future of the internet are beginning to surface. Internet speed is one of the factors that could potentially be impacted by the vote. Blum says the key takeaway is transparency of data, as we face new risks.
Despite improved global speed, Ookla says there were far too many countries and regions where internet speed decreased. Hurricane Maria put a dent in Puerto Rico's internet capabilities, contributing to the island's 39.8% drop in mobile download speed over the past year.
Members-only home swapping network Kindred recently announced its launch alongside a $7.75 million seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz. Homeowners and renters can exchange homes on Kindred's platform, which the company says allows members to travel and take advantage of remote-work flexibility at the fraction of the cost of a hotel or rental home. Justin Palefsky and Tas Amina, co-founders of Kindred, join Cheddar News' Closing Bell to discuss.
SpoonTEK is an eating utensil that uses new technology to enhance flavors. Co-founders Ken and Cameron Davidov join Cheddar News to explain how the high-tech silverware can not only boost taste but also the health of its user.
Judith Donath, Fellow at Harvard's Berkman Center, and the founder of the Sociable Media Group at the MIT Media Lab, joins Cheddar Reveals to take a trip back through the origins of the Internet and how it's shaped human behavior over decades.
Mike Liebhold, Distinguished Fellow and Senior Technology Researcher, Institute for the Future, joins Cheddar Reveals to discuss what the future of the internet holds and why cell phones could give way to glasses and headsets as the most common way to access the Internet.
