The transition to full-fibre means that copper retirement is now well underway. So far it has rarely been a straightforward or quick process given the strong regulatory oversight and need to protect those consumers who still rely on the copper network
The UK’s framework for digital markets risks being too broad
The UK Government's new competition regime for digital markets is unique around the world. While its key provisions are mostly tightly focused, some risk causing uncertainty and undermining the proportionality of the regime
Regulators diverge on their approach to the 3.4–3.8GHz band
Awards in the band vary widely in terms of prices paid and conditions attached with rollout obligations too burdensome in some cases. It is too early to assess the approach to private networks but most regulators may not be doing enough to facilitate them
More action needed to tackle scams
There has been a significant increase in scams, with losses for some consumers having risen by almost 45%. Regulators are mostly tackling it with information campaigns and working with telecom operators, but legislation has not been forthcoming
The challenges of phasing out 2G and 3G
The case for switching off 2G and 3G networks is becoming more compelling. Experiences from where it’s happened show that operators should plan well in advance and communicate extensively with customers to minimise possible disruption
From ex-post to ex-ante: the shift in oversight of Big Tech
Fines levied against Big Tech from ex-post competition investigations have totalled more than £14bn since 2017. But competition authorities are now gaining powers to prevent anti-competitive conduct ex-ante, rather than wait to intervene once it’s happened
The future’s bright, the future’s green
Telecoms operators have meaningfully embraced sustainability, with many having set targets even more ambitious than the net zero by 2050 aims. Regulators are paying attention too with ARCEP making environmental issues ‘the next chapter in regulation'
Why Mexico’s telecoms regulator should stay as it is
The future of Mexico's telecoms regulator is at risk. While great progress has been made, there is still more work to do. To be effective in its endeavours, the IFT needs to be able to continue down the path it has set, and with its independence intact
Improving information on 5G coverage
5G is now available in 300+ locations of the UK. So far, only EE has fully explained how it defines a location as covered. Ofcom could play an important role in helping consumers assess coverage claims, much like its equivalent in South Korea does
Fixed-mobile convergence leads to improved consumer value and network quality
Having performed a deep-dive market analysis of FMC in France, Netherlands, Spain and Portugal, we have found that consumers can benefit from faster speeds and better value connectivity
