While the initial hype surrounding the Metaverse may have given way to AI, development of its technological foundations continues. In light of the potential implications for policymakers, we've identified six areas where their attention should be focused
Drones: How policymakers can help the market take off
While the use of drones has proliferated, this emerging technology is yet to reach its inflection point. Regulation has a vital role to play in shaping future innovation and growth, ensuring safety and security, and crucially cementing public acceptance
Making the case for mobile consolidation
Operators in Europe have renewed calls for consolidation in mobile. Whilst some regulators and competition authorities might be more receptive than in the past, operators will need to convince them that consolidation really is key to unlocking investment
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
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
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
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
5G and health: how to address the concerns?
Concerns over public health and conspiracy theories saw more than 200 attacks on mobile masts. The anti-5G protests are not a first with previous generations of mobile technology sparked equally intense opposition. Consumer bodies can play an important role in dispelling myths
Regulators fight disinformation around 5G and health
Despite no supporting evidence, there has been a vocal group claiming 5G causes adverse health effects. In response, regulators have been publishing measurements of radio emissions from telecommunications equipment, which revealed that 5G emissions are still far from the maximum limits set out in national and international guidelines. Some regulators are also having to combat widespread disinformation on a link between 5G and the coronavirus pandemic, which has sometimes resulted in mobile infrastructure being vandalised.
What will be keeping regulators busy in 2020?
As we start 2020, we look ahead to the key issues regulators and policymakers will grapple with over the coming 12 months. We consider four broad areas: the first year of work for the new European Commission; the development of 5G (with regard to spectrum awards and network security); broadband policy and roll-out; and the approach to regulating platforms and big tech.
