AT&T is launching its U-Verse and GigaPower program in Kansas City, staying true to its promise to bring 1 Gbps fiber optic into 21 new cities in 2015.

Leawood, Lenexa, Olathe and Overland Park, Kansas will also receive the new gigabit service within the next few months. Independence, Missouri and Shawnee, Kansas will receive 1 Gbps in the near future.

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It's the second time AT&T steps into Google Fiber territory. It launched its own fiber optic service in Austin, Texas and wants to combat the move by Google.

A speed of 1 Gbps is 100 times faster than the average speed for U.S. homes. AT&T, however, will most likely reserve the speed for high-end developments. That means most in Kansas City won't see AT&T's option.

The prices match Google Fiber's service, as well: $70 for fiber, $120 for fiber and TV (including three years of HBO) or $150 for fiber, TV and phone. AT&T also offers a price guarantee for three years, meaning it won't instantly spike the contract once signed.

Even though it is good to see competition in the U.S., AT&T's regions really show a lack of investment in low priority areas and huge investment in regions where fiber optic speeds already exist.

AT&T claims it has seen "high demand" for 1 Gbps in Kansas City but is there more demand than in New York City, Washington D.C. or California? We expect not, but none of those states have high competition in fiber.

AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson has announced the firm will hold off from any new fiber developments until the Federal Communications Commission votes on its net neutrality plan on Feb. 24.

TagsAT&T, Kansas City, Google Fiber, fiber optic, 1Gbps