[Skip to main content](https://www.t-mobile.com#content-main) [](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works) [](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works) Search Search Submit search query Close out of search RECENT SEARCHES0 recent searches POPULAR0 popular search suggestions Categoriesundefined categories Suggestions0 search suggestions TOP SUGGESTIONS - [](https://www.t-mobile.com) undefined top suggestions - [Innovation](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/innovation) Innovation - [Leader in network innovation](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/innovation/the-leader-in-5g) - [Innovation with 5G Advanced](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/innovation/5g-advanced) - [Innovation with network slicing](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/innovation/5g-network-slicing-performance) - [Future of the network: AI RAN and 6G](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/innovation/ai-ran-and-6g) - [Network education](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/network-education) - [5G community benefits](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/5g-community-benefits) 5G community benefits - [5G powers smart cities](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/5g-community-benefits/smart-city-solutions) - [5G for public safety](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/5g-community-benefits/5g-and-e911) - [Closing the digital divide](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/5g-community-benefits/closing-the-digital-divide) - [Cell site permitting](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/cell-site-permitting) Cell site permitting - [Cell infrastructure and your community](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/cell-site-permitting/cell-site-construction-process) - [Living near a cell tower](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/cell-site-permitting/living-near-cell-tower) - [Federal laws, regulations, Spectrum Act](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/cell-site-permitting/cell-tower-regulations) - [Indoor coverage](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/indoor-coverage) Indoor coverage - [Connecting the Space Needle](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/indoor-coverage/wireless-innovation-space-needle) - [Developers plan early for coverage](https://www.t-mobile.com/how-mobile-works/indoor-coverage/wireless-infrastructure) Search Search Submit search query Close out of search RECENT SEARCHES0 recent searches POPULAR0 popular search suggestions Categoriesundefined categories Suggestions0 search suggestions TOP SUGGESTIONS - [](https://www.t-mobile.com) undefined top suggestions [](https://www.t-mobile.com) 5G COMMUNITY BENEFITS # Closing the digital divide to connect rural America. T-Mobile is investing in the 5G network in a big way to fill connectivity gaps and close the digital divide. This means enhancing coverage so all Americans—urban, suburban and rural communities—can access reliable internet that supports the increased demand for speed, security, and capacity for connected devices, also called the Internet of Things (IoT).   This is a new revolution in wireless technology, but what does that mean for your rural community?  ## Bringing more opportunities to rural communities. Historically, rural communities have been underserved when it comes to options for internet access. 5G expands that access because it uses the wireless network—something most people in the U.S. already have access to via their smartphones.   It also invites economic growth in companies small and large. Innovators may now feel empowered to become entrepreneurs, while established businesses can take advantage of the tools that will fuel the future of work.   Because 5G has a greater capacity for AI and IoT-connected devices without losing speed, farming communities can leverage smart farming. Using IoT and AI helps farmers plan, monitor, and automate farming practices. Farmers can collect more real-time data to help them make informed decisions that have a big impact on outcomes. Precision agriculture can help minimize waste, increase crop sizes, and reduce costs. This is a big move toward more sustainable farming practices.  ## The infrastructure that powers 5G. 5G uses radio waves to transmit data at higher speeds with lower latency (the delay in data transfer).     Our infrastructure uses a mix of low-, mid-, and high-band radio frequencies to provide comprehensive, blanket-like coverage to keep everyone connected from rural America to all four corners of the country. Low-band frequencies achieve greater range because they aren’t blocked by obstacles like buildings or foliage, while mid- and high-band frequencies offer superior speeds.     These frequencies connect macro cell towers, small cell sites, and end users. Whenever possible, cell sites are built on existing infrastructure, buildings, and rooftops. But occasionally we need to build new infrastructure.   T-Mobile relies on many sources of data to determine when and where to build new 5G infrastructure, including analyzing network usage, coverage gaps, and future demand (such as local development plans). ## Improving emergency response to keep communities safe. In emergencies, the near real-time data transfer can be critical to keeping communities safe.     For example, when a fire breaks out, emergency response times can make all the difference. But with 5G-supported AI, automated infrastructure monitoring, such as sensors on power lines or utility equipment, can rely on real-time data to detect issues so emergency teams respond appropriately to prevent the disaster before it begins.  ## Improving everyday lives through new opportunities. Expanded connectivity also means connecting people with opportunities that enhance their wellbeing. Services like telehealth or telepsychiatry became an option for the first time, helping patients connect with providers that they may not have been able to reach otherwise.  Distance learning and remote work also become real options for the first time, opening up greater economic opportunity and earning potential, especially in areas where such access was previously limited or unavailable. ## Our mission to bring 5G to those who need it most. As we continue to bridge the digital divide, we are dedicated to developing programs that bring essential resources to the heart of our communities. Here’s what we’re doing now:  ## Hometown Grants. [Hometown Grants.](https://www.t-mobile.com) Hometown Grants. We’re committing $25 million over five years to support 500 rural towns through our Hometown Grants program. This initiative is designed to improve revitalization by funding local projects that strengthen community ties. Whether it’s upgrading technology in local libraries, building new hiking trails, restoring historic landmarks, or enhancing community centers, we’re here to help. Together, we can make a lasting impact. [Learn more](https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/hometown-grants) ## Hometown Grants.    ## Friday Night 5G Lights. [Friday Night 5G Lights.](https://www.t-mobile.com) Friday Night 5G Lights. Our Friday Night 5G Lights initiative is a celebration of small-town high school football and the communities that support it. Through this contest, we award grants to high schools for field upgrades and facility improvements. It’s more than just football—it’s about continuing our investment in rural areas, including the expansion of our 5G network. [Read more](https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/friday-night-5g-lights) ## Friday Night 5G Lights.    ## Project 10Million. [Project 10Million.](https://www.t-mobile.com) Project 10Million. With Project 10Million, we help bridge the homework gap by providing internet connectivity to millions of underserved student households. Eligible students can receive free internet access, free mobile hotspots, and access to affordable laptops and tablets. It’s part of our commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to keep studying and succeeding in today’s connected world. [Learn more](https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/project-10-million) ## Project 10Million.   The future of our rural communities is being redefined by the power of connectivity. With our continued investment in 5G infrastructure and community-focused initiatives, we’re not just building a stronger network—we’re building stronger communities. From smart farming to small-town revitalization, expanded internet access is unlocking new opportunities and improving lives across the country. By closing the digital divide, we’re ensuring that everyone, no matter where they live, can be part of the connected future. ## Hello! Want to stay logged in? To keep your accounts safe, you'll be automatically logged out in:  Yes, stay logged in No, log me out ## Share your screen with an Expert __Get guided support over the phone or while shopping in-store__ - For your security, personal info, tabs, and notifications are automatically hidden. - You can stop screen sharing at any time. - Experts can only see what’s on T-Mobile.com. - Don’t use screen share while driving or in any situation where it's unsafe to focus on your screen. 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