Google Fiber unveiled: 100 times faster than broadband (VIDEO)

GlobalPost

Google unveiled its ultra-fast internet service in Kansas City on Thursday, according to CBS News.

The Fiber network claims speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second, according to CNN Money. That's approximately 100 times faster than today's average broadband.

The service, which bypasses local cable and phone companies, will cost costumers $70 per month. CBS News said Google spent months and an undisclosed amount of money on the project, which focused on the Kansas City region.

Google Fiber will offer residents in selected metropolitan parts of Kansas and Missouri the option of purchasing internet for $70 a month or internet and television for $120 a month, according to The New York Times.

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CNET reported that Google Fiber TV provides interactive search for TV, letting you search content on your DVR or Netflix. It will allow storage of up to 500 hours of shows and movies in 1,080p High Definition.

The HD TV box that Google will provide can record up to eight shows at a time, and will be controlled by Google's Nexus 7 tablet, said ABC News.

"The next phase of the Internet, the next chapter of the Internet is written here today," said Patrick Pichette, Google's chief financial officer, according to The Times.

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The Times said skeptics have branded the venture a publicity stunt which will not advance the country's broadband agenda.

Google will launch Google Fiber in neighborhoods once 40 to 80 households preregister for the service, said CNET.

According to CNET, people who sign up during an introductory period won't have to pay the $300 construction fee.

Kansas City was chosen as the site for Google Fiber after more than 1,100 cities applied to be the first to receive Google Fiber, The Times noted.

Here is a demonstration of Google Fiber's speeds as compared to traditional broadband, courtesy of CBS News:

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