AT&T's three-year broadband access investment, which the carrier notes is worth $2 billion, includes 20 centers for connected learning in neighborhoods where residents often lack broadband. The locations will feature high-speed AT&T Fiber internet and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as access to tablets and laptops.

Constellations of low earth orbit satellites will significantly improve the availability of satellite broadband access, says ABI Research Analyst Khin Sandi Lynn. ABI predicts that 3.5 million people will subscribe to satellite broadband this year, and 5.2 million within the next five years, generating service revenue of $4.1 billion.

AT&T and the University of Connecticut are building a development lab focused on 5G millimeter-wave spectrum at the school's Stamford campus. The endeavor also features multi-access edge computing and an innovation and entrepreneurship co-op, and supports a new team of faculty who will conduct data science research.

Brendan Carr, a Republican member of the Federal Communications Commission, commends acting chair Jessica Rosenworcel's leadership and improvements. He says that the agency has been "engaging in good faith compromise" and that he's enjoyed working with Rosenworcel.

Smartphone camera technology will get more sophisticated in the near future as companies offer new features and better zooming ability that will also make handsets lighter and less bulky. Canada's Scope Photonics, for example, is developing a camera that will keep pictures sharp even when using the zoom lens.

Apple expert Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the iPhone 13 mini will be the end of Apple's tiny handset line. Kuo says that 2022 models are likely to include two 6.1-inch devices and a pair that measure 6.7 inches, with one regular and one "Pro" version in each size.

Alexa has introduced a feature in seven cities that gives commuters real-time information about trains and buses. The voice-activated tool provides updates about late transportation, directions to and within terminals and Echo Buds integration.

Modern takes on the automat concept cater to contact-free restaurant practices that emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, Marriott is testing smartphone-controlled vending machines in place of breakfast buffets at two Fairfield Inn & Suites locations.