The UK has the skills and regulatory momentum to lead. What’s needed now is urgency from government, operators, and industry to strengthen resilience across essential industries and infrastructure, the very risks clearly set out in the Strategic Defence Review.

Yet we continue to experience outages, patchy coverage, and rising threats from cyberattacks, extreme weather, and infrastructure strain. When networks fail, lives and livelihoods are disrupted.

The solution increasingly lies in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite technology,  the ability for ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites when terrestrial coverage is lost. It’s a breakthrough that transforms resilience. It requires no specialist handsets, no bulky gear,  just seamless backup when it matters most.

Who provides this safety net, and on what terms, is not just a commercial issue. It’s a strategic question for Britain and Europe.

Deploying Aggressively

Satellite communications are moving from niche to mainstream. Regulators such as Ofcom have already begun paving the way for D2D services in the UK. Operators see value in offering resilience and new revenue streams. Consumers and enterprises want peace of mind that they can stay connected wherever they are.

Global giants are moving fast. Starlink is deploying aggressively, strengthened by its recent $17 billion acquisition of Echostar’s S-band spectrum. AST SpaceMobile has secured high-profile partnerships. Both have enormous financial firepower and ambitious global goals.

But under Ofcom’s emerging framework, D2D services must be delivered in partnership with a licensed, in-country mobile network operator. That means the real question is not whether operators are involved, but what kind of partnership they want.

D2D will soon be part of the mobile landscape. The question is who shapes it, and how. Will it be dominated by a handful of global mega-constellations? Or will we support a more balanced ecosystem where national innovators provide choice and resilience?

Smaller Innovators Matter

Britain has a history of competing with ingenuity rather than size. From early computing to fintech, British companies have thrived by being faster, more focused, and more collaborative than their larger rivals.

D2D offers the same opportunity. Instead of relying on overseas monopolies, we can build a diverse ecosystem of solutions that are operator-friendly and integrated into existing mobile networks rather than competing with them. These solutions can be low-risk — requiring no spectrum surrender or massive up-front investment from operators — and focused on coverage and resilience, not scale for its own sake.

This is where UK innovators can play a defining role. The UK already has one of the world’s most dynamic space economies, contributing more than £16 billion a year and delivering returns of £5 to £6 for every £1 invested. The Government has reinforced its intent by bringing the UK Space Agency under direct ministerial control, with a clear ambition to make Britain a major player in space.

That ambition must extend beyond rockets and satellites. It should include the communications layer that keeps people connected on Earth. Every region of the UK should have a communications resilience plan — and D2D must be central to it.

Call to Action

Satellite connectivity strengthens, rather than threatens, mobile networks  and will help shape the framework for future European legislation. If we back our innovators, we’ll ensure value, jobs, and expertise remain here rather than flowing overseas.

Mobile connectivity is too important to leave vulnerable. The next crisis,  whether cyber, environmental, or infrastructure-related,  could strike at any time. D2D satellite connectivity ensures we can still talk to each other when it does.

Britain can lead this resilience. Ofcom has set the direction by requiring operator partnerships. We must now back open-standards innovation that keeps operators and consumers in control.

Editor’s note: RCD Bullitt is a new company that acquired the Bullitt name and satellite-related intellectual property out of administration. It has no legal or financial connection with the former Bullitt Group and now operates the Bullitt Satellite Messenger service while investing in R&D to develop a non-terrestrial network platform-as-a-service.

Imagine a network that can identify problems on its own and fix them, without human intervention.

The idea of a network that can generate insights and prevent errors from occurring has been discussed for over a decade now but progress has been slow. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the demand for efficient and reliable network infrastructure has never been greater.

Automating processes with AI and ML

At the core of a self-healing network is the ability to automate complex processes. AI and ML technologies are rapidly evolving, enabling networks to go beyond traditional automation by learning and adapting in real-time.

This means that networks can identify patterns, predict potential issues, and even take corrective actions without human intervention.

Consider a scenario where AI algorithms continuously monitor network performance. By analysing data in real-time, these algorithms can detect anomalies, irregularities, or potential threats. If an issue arises, the AI system not only alerts administrators but also takes proactive measures to remedy the situation, reducing downtime and minimising the impact on the users.

Simplifying network operations

The need for effective network management becomes more important as we continue to embrace hybrid working models. Traditional networks often struggle with clunky and disjointed processes, which can lead to delayed resolutions, increased risk of security breaches, and financial losses.

One of the primary goals of self-healing networks is to swiftly identify and resolve issues before they escalate. By automating routine tasks, such as updates, optimisations, and security protocols, AI simplifies network operations and allows both providers and end-users to have a smoother experience.

This means streamlined maintenance processes and fewer issues related to software failures. The root cause of problems can quickly be pinpointed, and corrective actions are automatically initiated. Whether it’s rerouting traffic to avoid a bottleneck or reallocating resources to optimise performance, AI can be used to empower networks to adapt and recover without human intervention.

This not only enhances operational efficiency but also significantly reduces the burden on IT and network administrators – reducing their workload and providing end-users with a more reliable and consistent network experience.

AI’s journey towards autonomy

It’s no secret that network infrastructure can be complex. Which is why it’s important to give its design and architecture careful thought. While the vision of self-healing networks is compelling, the foundation on which they are built also needs consideration.

There’s no point dedicating time to creating a self-healing network if the underlying infrastructure isn’t robust. As networks grow to connect more people, places and devices, cloud architectures like Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) provide a secure foundation to scale and fuel digital aspirations. Not only capable of handling evolving requirements but also providing the stability needed for the effective functioning of self-healing mechanisms.

Additionally, the evolution of AI and ML is a crucial factor in achieving truly self-sufficient networks. While there’s often concern about AI surpassing human comprehension, it’s important to recognise that AI currently relies on human input for its success. The goal of these technologies is to reduce dependence on human intervention, allowing networks to become increasingly autonomous.

As AI continues to advance, the fears of it surpassing human understanding should be replaced with the view that AI is a tool that complements human capabilities. Rather than perceiving it as a threat, AI can be embraced as a network management partner, one that opens opportunities to enhance everyday processes.

Realising the potential of AI beyond hype

We need to move beyond the hype cycle and recognise the tangible impact AI and ML have already demonstrated. For instance, healthcare technology applications showcase the potential of AI to detect diseases and support clinical decision-making. In financial services, the technology is being used to spot data processing errors and enhance customer interaction.

By shifting our perspective and acknowledging AI as a transformative force with practical applications, there is an opportunity to unlock its potential to enhance network management. By leveraging its capabilities to automate processes, swiftly identify and resolve issues, simplify operations, and move towards greater autonomy,

AI has the ability to transform networks into intelligent, self-healing entities. Shaping a future where cloud architectures support a wave of more resilient, efficient, and reliable networks that meet the demands of our increasingly connected world.

Rob Orr, Chief Operations Officer, Virgin Media O2

One year ago, we launched the ‘Stop the Smartphone Swindle’ campaign to demand fairer mobile contracts for consumers.

We exposed how millions of people across the country are paying for phones they already own – a problem costing customers of EE, Vodafone and Three as much as £530m every single year.

Over the past 12 months, the award-winning campaign has been a huge success. From launching an online overpayment calculator, to deploying secret shoppers and even working with a professional pickpocket, we’ve shone a light on outdated bundled contracts, forced industry change and empowered consumers to make informed choices when taking out a mobile phone contract.

With the ‘smartphone swindle’ causing millions of consumers to unknowingly fork out for phones they already own, we called on the industry to do three things:

1. Introduce split contracts to give consumers greater choice over their mobile phone bills.

2. Automatically and fully roll down customers onto an airtime only plan at the end of their minimum term to stop handset overpayments.

3. Inform customers once they’ve paid off the cost of the handset at the end of their contracts.

Since lifting the lid on this half-a-billion-pound problem, we’re pleased to have helped drive positive change for consumers. Following the lead O2 set more than a decade ago, today, the three other mobile network providers (EE, Vodafone and Three) now all offer split contracts. This means customers signing up to these plans today won’t be charged for a handset after their contract ends.  It’s good news for consumers and over time, it will help reduce the number of people at risk of overpaying for phones they rightfully own.

But the battle is not over. The other operators continue to resist calls to do the right thing by putting an automatic stop to overpayments for pay-monthly customers and clearly telling customers when they’ve paid off their device. In response, we launched our online overpayment calculator to help empower consumers which has already helped over 11,000 people. This provides customers of any network the opportunity to check if they are at risk of overpaying for their handsets in a matter of seconds. 

Unfortunately, as things stand today, there are still more than 10 million customers locked into bundled contracts with the other mobile network operators that are at risk of overpaying for their phones.

Today, a year after we launched our campaign, we are once again reiterating our calls for the mobile industry to deliver a fairer deal for consumers. That means automatically and fully rolling down customers onto airtime-only plans when their contract ends – a change which could put money back into the pockets of millions of people overnight – and clearly informing consumers as soon as they’ve paid off the cost of their device.

Until this happens, consumers are set to spend hundreds of millions of pounds unwittingly paying for phones they already own.

It’s time to Stop the Smartphone Swindle.

Don’t get swindled. Stop paying for the phone you already own

Remember to: 

1. Split – your device and airtime wherever possible

2. Switch – if you are at risk of overpaying for your handset at the end of your contract and don’t have the option to split your bill, switch to another operator

3. Save – money by being aware of this issue and never overpaying for your handset

4. Share – tell friends and family if you think they might be paying for a phone they already own

Nexfibre is a joint venture between InfraVia Capital Partners, Liberty Global and Telefónica. It will roll out fibre to five million homes not currently served by Virgin Media O2’s network by 2026. The deal gives nexfibre a regional fibre network with low overlap of the existing Virgin Media O2 footprint. Virgin Media O2 will extend the reach of its gigabit connectivity to more homes.

Upp was launched in June 2021 under the name FibreMe, by four British entrepreneurs from BT, Orange, Ericsson, KCOM and Gigaclear and offers residential and business full-fibre packages. Its 4,000 customers will be offered Virgin Media O2 services, with no service changes occurring in the near term. Virgin Media O2 will integrate Upp’s fibre network and systems and offer Upp customers Virgin Media O2 services. 

The all-cash acquisition will increase the fibre footprint of nexfibre by 175,000 premises in the East of England. Virgin Media O2 will purchase Upp and nexfibre will ultimately fund the acquisition through a back-to-back of Upp’s network of around 175,000 premises. This second stage transaction is expected to be completed within the next year.

With Virgin Media O2 acting as a build supplier nextfibre, will expand its network in the East of England with an expected investment of upwards of £350 million to reach more than 500,000 premises by 2026.

“This is an important step to build a world-class fibre network with our wholesale partner Virgin Media O2 in suburban and semi-rural areas, Upp is will accelerate our rollout in an area where we expect to invest more than £350 million by 2026.”said nextfibre chairman Andrea Salvato.

Lutz Schüler, CEO of Virgin Media O2, added: “ Virgin Media O2 and nexfibre have a clear strategy in place to be the biggest fibre challenger in the country, offering greater choice and competition to the BT status quo.”

Drew Ritchie , CEO of Upp said:

“We are looking forward to continuing the rollout of full-fibre in the East of England. It is an important recognition of the scale and quality of the network that we have built, and all the hard work and effort put in over the last two years. We’re now looking forward to working with the nexfibre and Virgin Media O2 team.”

Vodafone has done research that indicates choosing when to give a child their first mobile phone is “one of the hardest decisions a parent will make, with 36% saying it ranked equally as hard as choosing which school their children should go to”

Around 10 per cent of parents surveyed spend five months or more discussing when to buy their child their first phone with many finding it it hard to know which mobile phone to choose. Parents also lack confidence in setting up safety features on apps that children use.

The NSPC says around, 10 per cent of calls to its Helpline are about safety concerns about mobile phones and online platforms

The study by Vodafone also found that parents felt a phone was important to have when a child goes to secondary school and to keep them safe when travelling to and from school and to know where they are, when they’re out on their own..

“We’re supporting NSPCC with more practical resources and tips to give them the tools and confidence they need when their children step into the online world with their first phone,” said Vodafone Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer Nicki Lyons.

Three produced an impressive set of half-year results showing revenue up four per cent to £1.23bn and net customer service revenue up eight per cent to £816m.

Other positive KPI’s were profit margin up nine per cent to £808m and seven per cent growth in active customer base from B2B, the SMARTY MVNO .and 5G Home Broadband, The SMARTY MVNO base grew by 36 per cent over the same period last year and 5G Home base increased by 174 per cent. The prepaid customer base was up eight per cent to 1.8 million.

Three says its network carries 29 per cent of the UK’s mobile data traffic

Three says its network carries 29 per cent of the UK’s mobile data traffic with average data usage per customer per month of 24.4GB, up 17 per cent over the same period in 2022.5G is now live across more than 4,400 sites in over 610 towns and cities, with 61 per cent outdoor coverage.

Three CEO Robert Finnegan said Three’s EBITDA continues to be below its capital expenditure, but this is “unsustainable going forward”, hence the importance of the planned merger with Vodafone

“We have successfully grown the business in the first half of the financial year and I’m proud that we have added to the customer base and delivered an increase in margin. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues for their hard work and ongoing commitment to the business.

“While the ongoing rollout of 5G is a success, we have been clear that we are now at an inflection point. As strong connectivity continues to be critical to how we live and work, we’re planning for the future. Our EBITDA continues to be below our capital expenditure, which is unsustainable going forward”.

Three UK CEO, Robert Finnegan, and Vodafone UK CEO, Ahmed Essam (main pic) have put more flesh on the bone of the historic merger.

Both confirmed there will be no change to each operator’s pricing strategy and that a multi-brand strategy will continue with Vodafone and Three continuing under their own names .

No change to each operator’s pricing strategy and a multi-brand strategy will continue

Economies of scale will enable the UK’s new third network to bring 5G coverage to more than 99 per cent of the population by 2034 and similar geographic coverage by 2027.

They claim that the UK businesses’ digital transformation will get a boost with improvements to production efficiency from full 5G access while energy consumption will be reduced by enabling business to install more energy efficient 5Ge smart technology to reduce their emissions?

“The merger creates a third network operator with scale and creates more effective competition to the market leaders to become an even more effective challenger on home broadband, accelerating the availability of fixed wireless access to complement the UK’s fibre footprint” said Essam.

Both of the businesses will compete as usual on a stand-alone basis until the merger is complete. So customers should not expect any changes to their plans and prices, They have pledged continuation of support on social tariffs to ensure there are o price rises on these tariffs. In the contract-free market there will be no price rises.

Finnegan said he was confident the regulatory bodies would not stop the merger.

“Ofcom identified that investment is very important in the industry. We’re both investing more than we are generating and that is not sustainable. I think Ofcom and the CMA recognise that and that this is an opportunity to correct what is a dysfunctional market. This is a way of creating a really strong third player that has scale and is wiling to invest £11 billion which is way more than any of the other operators. And that’s got to be good for consumers, The devil is in the detail, We will be engaging with the CMA in due course and listen to what their concerns are and move forward.”

this is an opportunity to correct what is a dysfunctional market.

Added Essam added: “If you reflect on where the market was five years ago and where we are today clearly it is a very different market. What materially changed is the MVNO market which is competitive. MVNO’s enjoy a market share of more than 16.5 per ent. It is very different from the position five years back. This changes the competitive landscape and makes our case very strong and which will bring our transaction over the claiming weeks to the CMA”.

The Three China connection is not seen as an obstacle for security concerns as it did with Huawei.

“We work with the security bodies and they have no concerns about our operations. This will be Hutchison taking a 49 per cent stake. So we don’t see an issue here”, said Finnegan.

Essam emphasised that both networks are already heavily regulated in the UK and adhere to strict compliance on customer data.

“We both abide by customer privacy regulations, Clearly the deal will be subject to national security approvals. We are on a good position to take this case to the security agencies and bodies”

The project, called Gigabit Innovation Track (GINT), has received € 6.4 million funding from the German government to provide high-speed data and phone connections to train passengers from all rail operations.

A test area will be built in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, trialling tower designs to provide gigabit coverage along a 10km stretch of track. The project is anticipated to require 20,000 new towers across Germany’s railway network. Proposals for tower sharing are being discussed to reduce construction time, resources, and costs.

The project is anticipated to require 20,000 new towers

The project aims to explore alternative tower designs that can be securely attached without costly concrete foundations, reducing construction time and CO2 emissions. It will also conduct 5G testing on O2 Telefónica’s 3.6 gigahertz frequencies, which offer fast data transmission but have a shorter range than 4G.

The implementation of the Future Rail Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) will require additional towers operating on a dedicated 1900 megahertz band

The new merged company, expected to be announced on Friday will be 51 per cent owned by by Vodafone and 49 per cent owned by Hutchison. Analysts say it wil be worth around £15 billion and will be be bigger than BT and Virgin Media O2, owned by the Spanish Telefonica, and Liberty Global.

The announcement of the merger comes hard on the heels of Vodafone’s CEO Margherita Della Valle’s (below)  admission it faces a painted a challenging future and a need to slash jobs.

“The merger is critical for the company in light of its objectives around building the infrastructure of the future to help catalyse the digital economy. That entails significant investment in 5G roll out and expensive future-proofing projects, like the laying out of undersea internet cables which traverse areas of high geopolitical tensions”. said Alexandra Brodie, telecoms partner at the law firm Gowling WLG

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news-mobile-world-congress/article/vodafone-three-merger-expected-announced-friday/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/half-uk-population-unaware-3g-switch-off/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/half-uk-population-unaware-3g-switch-off/#respond Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:26:21 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/half-uk-population-unaware-3g-switch-off/ Half the UK population is unaware of the imending 3G network switch off according to an Opinium survey sample of 2,000 UK adults last December, Respondents were asked:  ‘In 2023 mobile providers will start to switch off their 3G networks to focus on 4G and 5G. Were you aware of this before today? Fifty one

Half the UK population is unaware of the imending 3G network switch off according to an Opinium survey sample of 2,000 UK adults last December,

Respondents were asked:

 ‘In 2023 mobile providers will start to switch off their 3G networks to focus on 4G and 5G. Were you aware of this before today?

Fifty one per cent said they didn’t know. Around 27 per cent of people surveyed knew 3G was for the chop.

Networks will switch off 2G and 3G over the next decade to free up spectrum for 4G and 5G.

EE also plans to start its switch-off in early 2024 Three aims to switch off its entire 3G network by the end of 2024. O2 has not yet announced plans but the Government has requested all 3G networks to be closed by 2033.

Vodafone’s 3G shutdown started this month and will apply to its MVNOs including Lebara Mobile, Asda Mobile, Talk Mobile and VOXI,

“3G is used by more than 30 million people. Our research shows more than 15 million aren’t aware it is being phased out or how this will impact their ability to get online. Focusing investment on 4G and 5G networks is a sensible move, However it’s important to make those relying on 3G networks are not caught unaware said uSwitch head of commerce; for broadband and mobile Ernest Doku

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