We start 2023 with a horizon scanning exercise, considering what to expect in regulation and policy this year. 'Fair share', digital competition, and consolidation among fibre builders and mobile operators are likely to be prominent fixtures.
Also in the briefing:
EU legislation
Sweden assumed the Presidency of the EU Council on 1 January 2023. Ukraine, energy, trade and inflation are key priorities, although AI, data and digital infrastructure will also be a focus over the next six months.
Switchover and switch-off
As the switch-off of legacy networks gains momentum, attention will turn to consumer information campaigns and raising awareness. Environmental benefits may spur an accelerated retirement of copper in some countries.
Spectrum
By the end of this year, critical decisions will have been made that will impact operators and the wider mobile ecosystem. As demand for spectrum increases, WRC-23 will determine the global use of frequencies.
Altnets and competitive fibre build
Consolidation among the altnets now seems inevitable as investment dries up, build pace slows and attention turns to driving take-up. The competitive lay of the land will be called into question via Ofcom’s Equinox consultation.
Consolidation in mobile
Facing commercial, economic and operational headwinds, some operators have renewed their calls for consolidation. Certain transactions could be bellwethers for the prospect of further in-market deals.
Consumer protection
From disrupting scams and educating consumers to improving transparency and take up of social tariffs, Ofcom shifts to monitoring and compliance.
Satellite connectivity
Satellite is increasingly being used to deliver broadband and to enable smartphone communications. While the industry enjoys policymakers’ support, questions remain as to how effective a substitute it could be for other technologies.
Net neutrality and fair share
The EC’s consultation on fair share will see the focus of the debate shift to future network demands coming principally from the metaverse. Elsewhere, the UK will be watched with interest in terms of Ofcom’s revised approach to net neutrality.
Digital platforms and competition
With the DMA in force in the EU, the UK is playing catch up in the regulation of digital markets. Competition authorities are reviewing the fast growing, highly concentrated cloud industry and large antitrust cases are on the horizon.
Online safety
The UK’s OSB is likely to see significant amendments tabled in Q1, with debates on harms to adults, Secretary of State powers, encryption, media exemptions and freedom of expression likely to dominate.
