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
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
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
£940m of support from UK telecoms operators during COVID-19
Having considered 50 of the initiatives UK telecoms operators put in place during the course of the pandemic so far, we estimate £940m of support has been made available – £340m of which have been to help the most vulnerable
