European telcos have demonstrated remarkable solidarity with Ukrainians. Almost 100 operators have put in place more than 570 support measures with many offering wider humanitarian support beyond just free or discounted connectivity
Consumer readiness for the PSTN switch-off
Regulators have rarely seen the need to intervene in the switch-off of the PSTN, leaving the process and its communication to operators. Only in some countries have they stepped in to protect consumers from service outages in the event of a power cut
Improving transparency for broadband customers
Broadband labelling schemes, such as those with traffic light symbols, have become increasingly popular to help with greater transparency and fairness. Designed well, they can promote competition, and encourage take-up of faster speeds among consumers
Telcos set to reduce CO2e emissions by more than 40m tonnes
2021 was the year of sustainability. Telecoms operators announced a flurry of initiatives to reach net-zero ahead of the global deadline of 2050. By doing so, they are set to save more than 40m tonnes of CO2e compared to 2020 levels
The state of net neutrality
The net neutrality debate has been reignited. Developments in the EU, South Korea, UK, and US could lead to changes in how it, and zero rating in particular, is regulated. In the absence of consumer harm, regulators should maintain a flexible approach
The challenge of retiring the copper network
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
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
What Brexit means for UK telecoms
Both sides are looking to maintain regulatory alignment with things like data protection set to continue, although Ofcom should be able to regulate with more flexibly. While the roaming regulation no longer applies, there may be sufficient incentives for it to continue
Telecoms and Big Tech under a Biden administration
The Biden administration is expected to bring significant change for telecoms and Big Tech. Overhauling broadband policy to foster competition and reduce the gap between urban and rural areas, restoring net neutrality rules, and continued restrictions on Chinese equipment vendors all seem likely
