Instead, three converging trends are creating this need: the rapid proliferation of connected devices, the development of advanced video-enabled AI applications, and the migration of computing power to the cloud. Together, these trends necessitate high-speed, low-latency, highly reliable, and consistent networks.
However, access remains unequal. In numerous countries, high-speed broadband availability and affordability are limited, and the gap between highly developed and emerging broadband markets continues to widen.
Even fiber-optic infrastructure—the most future-proof broadband technology—can deliver vastly different quality of experience. To advance toward true gigabit societies, regulations must encourage not only fiber coverage but also ongoing investment in advanced technologies that ensure high-speed, high-quality services and applications.
In-building networks must adopt advanced Wi-Fi technologies (Wi-Fi 6 or above), access networks must transition to full-fiber to the home (FTTP) utilizing advanced gigabit-PON (G-PON) technologies, and core transport networks must implement 400G/800G networks for mission-critical synchronous traffic or best-effort packet traffic. Post-2030 development will follow the International Telecommunications Union’s (ITU’s) “International Optical Networks towards 2030 and Beyond (ION-2030)” framework.
Urban deployments should serve as testbeds for subsequent rural expansion.
These cities have benefited from ambitious government policies establishing clear targets—initially for gigabit networks, and more recently for 10-gigabit broadband infrastructure and services.
France pioneered FTTH deployment in Europe using G-PON technology. Led by Orange, 10G-PON deployment began in late 2024 and accelerated throughout 2025. Paris now has significant 10G-PON availability, driving increased high-speed service penetration.
This rapid development stems from network operator investments, including XGS-PON rollout, Wi-Fi 6 deployment, and upcoming Wi-Fi 7 implementation—all encouraged by the government’s “Resolution 57-NQ/TW” policy initiative. This national investment has benefited major urban and industrial areas, including Ho Chi Minh City, which now ranks 8th in the Gigacity Index.
Cities take different paths toward becoming gigabit societies—some invest in technology first, with service development following, while others lead with service development that drives technology investment. The path matters less than the ultimate evolution toward true gigabit societies built on comprehensive gigabit infrastructure at scale, delivering excellent user experiences.
Regulators and authorities should establish policies and regulations that encourage greater fiber broadband deployment, including gigacity development, through:
■ National, regional, and city-level planning: Develop ambitious national broadband plans with clear targets for urban and rural areas. Urban targets should include fiber infrastructure coverage in residential and enterprise areas, gigabit broadband service adoption, and gigabit connectivity for schools and public buildings.
■ Policy support: Implement policies that ease fiber deployment obstacles, including right-ofway (RoW) provisions and fiber pre-deployment requirements.
■ Financial incentives: Deploy financial tools such as vouchers and tax deductions to drive market development and support universal service obligations.
Optimize network architecture for diverse scenarios, including urban environments, to enhance network capabilities and broadband service quality, creating ubiquitous infrastructure for gigacities.
Develop customized network equipment and devices tailored to specific deployment scenarios.
Actively embrace and leverage gigabit optical network infrastructure in gigacities. Explore integration with diverse application scenarios to improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and accelerate digital transformation.