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The whole article is based on the flawed assumption that DSL is reaching its theoretical maximum.

20+ Mbit DSLs are already widely available in many countries (http://en.wikipedia.org/wikipedia/ITU_G.992.5). And 100+ Mbit DSLs are being rolled out (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL2).

Is there a reason why DSL speeds can't keep up in the US?

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That might be fine for dense cities but once you get any real distance in the lines the speed drops way off.

Operators typically bring fiber close to homes, while still using DSL for the last mile. True, this requires investments, but not much compared to wiring each home with phone lines, cable, or fiber (all of which have been done before).

Note that part of the reason that cable is able to reach such high speeds is precisely because they use the same infrastructure I described: fiber to the neighborhood, then coaxial cable for the last mile. I don't see why DSL operators shouldn't be expected to do the same if they want to compete.

I think it has less to do with density than with willingness to invest in upgrades.

Plus DSL can be bonded.

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