As competition in the rollout of high-speed broadband intensifies, there has been a renewed push to connect non-commercially viable areas. Public funding has been made available, but some governments are being more supportive than others
UK: Support with the cost of living
The telecoms industry has been criticised for raising prices and not doing enough for those in financial hardship. Beyond providing social tariffs, we've identified £300m of initiatives operators have put in place at their own cost to help ease the pain
Evolving the concept of universal service
As policymakers consider the future funding of the USO, some are exploring potential contributions from large CAPs. This may be one solution to address broadband affordability challenges while ensuring a wider pool of contributors to network investment
Supplier of Last Resorts: What happens if an altnet goes bust?
The UK has seen a proliferation of cash-rich, independent fibre providers in recent years. However, in light of economic and operational challenges, there are concerns that some of these will fail. Should Ofcom have a plan to manage the potential fallout?
Are regulated social tariffs the answer to the cost of living crisis?
With the rising cost of living starting to bite, some regulators have mandated social tariffs for connectivity. However, such plans have often faced the same challenges of low awareness and adoption as the voluntary initiatives put in place by operators
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
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
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
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
