The investment is s a multi-million-pound commitment over the lifetime of the 10-year agreement lease to occupy around half of the Island development on John Dalton Street, just off Deansgate. The building is designed to meet net zero carbon standards.

Around 1,100 Virgin Media O2 employees will be based at the site. Teams moving into the new office include multi-skilled customer service staff handling specialist and complex enquiries, including support for vulnerable customers and bereavement cases. The company said the new location will support its flexible and hybrid working policies.]

Rob Orr, Chief Operating Officer, Virgin Media O2, said: 

“Manchester is a thriving hub for innovation and creativity, and we’re proud to deepen our connection to the region with this significant investment. Our new North West HQ at Island will provide a modern, sustainable space for our people to collaborate and deliver for customers, while our continued upgrades to mobile and broadband networks ensure Greater Manchester remains at the forefront of digital progress. These investments reflect our long-term vision to support local communities, power the digital economy, and create a future-ready network for everyone.”

The decision to move followed a review of property options in the region as the Wythenshawe lease nears its end. Virgin Media O2 has maintained a long-standing operational presence in Manchester, which continues to be one of its main regional hubs outside London.

The opening of the Island office consolidates the operator’s workforce into one location while maintaining its long-term presence in the North West. The new headquarters will be the primary base in the North West supporting customer operations and network activity across the wider region.

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.

Marketing is crucial for mobile operators to stand out and capture potential customers’ attention. These campaigns require significant investment but deliver personalised, relevant experiences.

Fighting fraud must be a top priority for operators aiming to grow subscribers and boost revenue. Understanding fraud tactics and gaining traffic transparency are two of the most effective defences.

Fake traffic often blends with legitimate traffic and can fool older detection tools, but it leaves clues for experienced analysts. For example, sudden traffic spikes with few conversions can signal fraud.

Operators should audit analytics to identify traffic sources. Large volumes from low-quality or unfamiliar sources may indicate fake traffic. Why do they go to such lengths? Sometimes it’s to fraudulently claim performance incentive, sell fake traffic or sabotage competitors by draining their ad budgets. This fraud is organised, deliberate, and financially motivated.

Strengthening identity verification at signup helps prevent fraudsters from creating multiple fake profiles.

Operators can also set custom verification rules that limit how often a user can interact with a paid ad. Bots will be blocked once they reach this limit, preventing click spam.

Advanced fraud detection tools can identify legitimate versus fraudulent traffic at the first click, filling gaps in security. For example, a Middle East operator struggling with costly brand search campaigns and high IVT saw a 20% cost reduction, a 27% drop in invalid traffic, and a 13x ROI increase after deploying such tools.

Competition for new subscribers shows no sign of slowing. Mobile operators must optimize campaigns and combat growing ad fraud. Fortunately, fraudsters aren’t as invisible as they think.

In the telecom sector ad spending projected to increase by 8.3 per cent, according to Dentsu. Telecoms is one of the fastest-growing sectors for digital advertising. But as spending surges, so does ad fraud bad actors see telecom operators as prime targets especially since many mobile security systems lack defences against ad fraud.

Fraudsters use various tactics behind the scenes, powered by AI bots that generate fake clicks on campaigns. While a single fake click may seem insignificant, collectively they rapidly raise cost-per-clicl rates. Operators end up paying for clicks that don’t convert, stunting revenue growth. These bots are getting harder to detect as they mimic human behaviours—scrolling, responding to CAPTCHAs, and more.

Bots

Fraudsters use AI-driven bots, to sabotage operators’ campaigns. These fake clicks and other deceptive tactics distort campaign metrics, driving up customer acquisition costs and reducing return on investment To grow their subscriber base without interference, mobile operators must strengthen their defences and confront fraud directly.

Not all invalid traffic is malicious. Some of it happens unintentionally. Users experiencing network problems may repeatedly click on paid search links to reload a page. Loyal customers might use branded ads as shortcuts to log in, especially if the app is slow or buried in search results. These actions aren’t harmful, but they still increase cost-per-click and they waste budget.

To maximize ad value and ROI, operators must closely monitor campaign performance. While this may seem straightforward, ad fraud increasingly throws campaign results off track.

Operators also face “app install attribution stealing.  This is where networks of devices or collaborators create fake profiles that install an operator’s app and then quickly uninstall it, creating the illusion of genuine downloads, tricking operators into paying for fake installs.

Additionally, bad actors may hijack credit for installs earned by legitimate publishers. By installing malware on users’ devices, fraudsters learn when an app is being installed and “inject” a fake click during download. This falsely attributes the install to the fraudster, depriving real publishers of deserved credit.

Impact 

Ad fraud not only drains budgets during attacks but also complicates accurate campaign measurement. Floods of fake clicks inflate metrics, making campaigns appear successful when they’re not. Operators may then invest in similar campaigns unknowingly wasting spend, while fraudsters continue attacking behind the scenes—leaving revenues drained.

With practical, data-driven strategies, like regular traffic audits and advanced detectionoperators can ensure their ad budgets reach real users, not fraudsters.

Hamish White, CEO at telecom software provider Mobilise, explains how eSIMs are rising from Skype’s ashes.

As one communication era fades, another begins. The rise of embedded SIM (eSIM) technology marks the next wave in connectivity, removing infrastructure barriers and enabling seamless, borderless communication. Here, 

If you grew up in the 90s, calling loved ones abroad could cost more than dinner. A quick check-in was a costly affair. But everything changed in 2003 with the launch of Skype.

Using only an internet connection, Skype offered a free alternative to expensive calls, democratising international voice communication and bringing together family, friends and colleagues. By 2010, 13 per cent of the world’s international calls were made over Skype, and the phrase “Skype me” was as ubiquitous as “Google it.”

However, even giants can fall. When Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011, it had approximately 150 million monthly active users. But misaligned updates and Microsoft’s growth of its Teams unified comms platform — along with the rise of Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic — led to a steady decline in Skype’s user base, and ultimately, its sunset.

While Skype’s decline reminds us that even the most successful platforms can falter, its departure opens the door for the next generation of global communication technology.

An Infrastructure-Free Future

Skype reinvented international communication by removing the cost barriers of traditional calling. eSIM technology takes this a step further by eliminating the infrastructure barriers that have historically tied users to specific networks and regions.

Instead of relying on physical SIM cards, an eSIM chip is embedded directly into a device, allowing users to switch seamlessly between networks without swapping cards.

This capability offers significant value across user groups. For frequent travellers, eSIMs simplify the process of connecting to local networks. Users can download a data plan directly to their device, enjoying reliable, affordable connectivity without hefty roaming fees. That means no more wasting valuable travel time searching for SIM cards or navigating confusing kiosks.

For global businesses, eSIMs simplify mobile connectivity across regions. Companies can offer employees seamless access without the logistical headache of juggling multiple SIMs or carrier contracts. This flexibility is crucial for organisations that depend on mobile communication and remote work, enabling smoother, more efficient global operations.

Just as Skype once made it easier to stay in touch across borders, eSIM technology is now expanding that freedom — giving individuals more control over how and where they connect. The infrastructure powering this experience may not be immediately visible, but it’s what makes seamless global communication possible.

Powering Global Connectivity

As a telecom software provider, Mobilise enables Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), and digital brands to offer eSIM services without owning or managing traditional telecom infrastructure.

Built on its HERO= platform, Mobilise’s White Label eSIM and V-eSIM apps builds on what Skype began: enabling communication beyond traditional phone lines. But instead of a single platform continuing Skype’s legacy in a broader, infrastructure-free form.

Although Skype’s era has ended, its legacy of breaking down communication barriers lives on through the evolution of eSIM technology. eSIM represents the future — offering flexibility for both businesses and consumers. By simplifying communication and improving global access, eSIM helps ensure staying connected remains seamless in a mobile-first world.

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/analysis-skype-esims-one-door-closes-another-opens-global-connectivity/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/advanced-device-locking-gamechanger-combating-phone-theft/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/advanced-device-locking-gamechanger-combating-phone-theft/#respond Tue, 28 Jan 2025 11:35:15 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/advanced-device-locking-gamechanger-combating-phone-theft/ Around 196,000 people had their phones stolen between April 2022 and March 2023. and  this is only a fraction of the true figure writes Dion Price, CEO of device-locking technology company Trustonic. Mobile “snatch thefts” have become endemic on UK streets, particularly in London, which accounted for 74 per cent of reported incidents in the

Around 196,000 people had their phones stolen between April 2022 and March 2023. and  this is only a fraction of the true figure writes Dion Price, CEO of device-locking technology company Trustonic.

Mobile “snatch thefts” have become endemic on UK streets, particularly in London, which accounted for 74 per cent of reported incidents in the year ending March 2023.

This is where advanced device locking technology comes into play, offering a more comprehensive approach to risk mitigation. Acting as a ‘kill switch’” it is nearly impossible to bypass, even for sophisticated criminal gangs. This technology integrates with a device’s operating system at a fundamental level, ensuring that even a factory reset won’t disable the lock. By rendering stolen devices worthless, it effectively removes the incentive for theft.

Unlike traditional security measures, which rely on users to set them up, advanced device locking works out-of-the-box. From the moment a phone is turned on, it is fully protected. While conventional security features remain important, advanced locking solutions are emerging as the most effective defense against street theft.

Unfortunately, the smartphone industry has been slow to embrace this transformative technology. Carriers and retailers owe it to themselves—and their customers—to explore the benefits of device locking. This technology holds the key to dismantling the global crime networks that fuel device theft.

Means, Motive, and Opportunity

Street theft poses a significant and growing threat to consumers. But what factors are driving its rise?  First, the ever-increasing cost of smartphones creates a lucrative incentive for theft, with high-end devices commanding premium prices on the black market. This trend is fuelled by the strong growth of premium smartphones, which are increasingly viewed as status symbols. As a result, thieves are operating in a target-rich environment where motivation and opportunity abound.

To make matters worse, law enforcement resources are woefully inadequate to address the issue effectively. Less than one per cent of phone thefts lead to a prosecution, and even when they do, theft is often treated as a minor crime, with offenders receiving little more than a slap on the wrist. This combination of high rewards and minimal consequences emboldens criminals to continue their activities.

The Limitations of Current Anti-Theft Measures

Efforts are being made to combat mobile theft and disrupt the criminal networks that profit from it, primarily through technological measures. Most modern phones come equipped with security features built into their core design. However, these require users to activate them, and many consumers either aren’t aware of these features or fail to set them up correctly.

The cost of these solutions varies depending on the use case and scale of deployment. However, the return on investment for retailers, carriers, and financiers is significant. For example:

Retailers: Millions in stolen goods no longer need to be written off.

Device Financing: Funds previously reserved for bad debt can be reallocated to lower credit thresholds, enabling more customers to access financing options.

Society at Large: Reducing street crime improves public safety and lowers the costs associated with replacing stolen devices.

Even when biometric authentication or “Find My Phone” features are enabled, sophisticated criminals often possess the tools and skills to bypass these safeguards.

The GSMA Device Registry (IMEI blacklist) was designed to block stolen handsets on a carrier’s network, theoretically reducing their resale value and deterring theft. However, this approach is fundamentally flawed.

 Limited Scope: The registry only blocks cellular network access, leaving stolen devices usable on Wi-Fi or offline.

Incomplete Adoption:Out of more than 800 carriers worldwide, only 130 participate in the registry, creating significant loopholes. Stolen phones are often shipped overseas, where they can be sold in markets not covered by the registry.

Optional Participation: The registry is a chargeable service rather than a mandatory requirement for carriers, and many operators may not even be aware of its existence.

Device locking also serves a range of functions, including protecting device subsidies and financing schemes, safeguarding supply chains and preventing forward and reverse logistics scams.

For instance, in supply chain protection, devices are shipped in a locked state and only unlocked upon arrival at their destination. In forward logistics, devices are shipped unlocked but can be remotely locked if theft or fraud is reported.

Advanced device locking platforms are designed to manage these varied use cases seamlessly, offering a unified solution for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Google. Devices are shipped from the factory with the locking solution pre-installed. Upon first use, the relevant use case is enabled over-the-air (OTA), enrolling the device into the platform provider’s system.

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/advanced-device-locking-gamechanger-combating-phone-theft/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/telecoms-security-act-compliance-challenges-service-providers/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/telecoms-security-act-compliance-challenges-service-providers/#respond Mon, 25 Nov 2024 12:43:13 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/telecoms-security-act-compliance-challenges-service-providers/ By Islam Rashad UK telecom providers are undergoing a transformative digital revolution. The rollout of 5G, fibre broadband networks, and IoT, coupled with the introduction of AI, is driving innovation, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing customer experiences. These advancements are reshaping telecom operators into Digital Service Providers positioning them as essential enablers of the UK’s

]]> By Islam Rashad

UK telecom providers are undergoing a transformative digital revolution. The rollout of 5G, fibre broadband networks, and IoT, coupled with the introduction of AI, is driving innovation, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing customer experiences. These advancements are reshaping telecom operators into Digital Service Providers positioning them as essential enablers of the UK’s digital economy.

However, this rapid transformation comes with significant challenges. The expanded digital landscape introduces new vulnerabilities, from an extended supply chain to increasingly complex networks and private cloud technologies. Telecom operators must defend against an ever-evolving array of cyber threats, including well-funded advanced persistent threat groups and nation-state-sponsored attackers.

Cyberattacks on telecom providers can disrupt public services, impact national operations, and paralyse daily life. Recognising these risks, the National Cyber Security Centre introduced the Telecoms Security Act . This legally binding framework, an amendment to the Communications Act 2003, requires telecom providers to implement robust security measures to safeguard their 5G workloads and core broadband networks.

TSA Framework: Compliance Roadmap

The TSA mandates 21 compliance control packages, to be phased in by March 2028. These measures aim to bolster security and resilience across public electronic communication networks and services (PECN).

The Code of Practice offers detailed guidance on meeting these new security obligations. It aligns with the legal framework established under sections 105A to 105D of the Communications Act 2003, which was updated by the TSA in 2021.

In March 2024, Ofcom began auditing Tier 1 providers’ compliance annually under Section 135 of the Communications Act. As Tier 1 providers progress, attention is now shifting to Tier 2 providers, who must achieve their initial compliance milestones by March 2025.

Complexity of Compliance

The TSA’s Code of Practice provides valuable insights into meeting compliance requirements. However, its extensive and complex control measures pose challenges for telecom providers. Achieving compliance requires more than a checklist approach—it demands a collaborative effort across technical and procurement teams, supported by a governance framework. This includes creating a clear roadmap to achieve phased compliance over the coming years.

Challenges in Compliance

Meeting TSA compliance requires substantial investment in resources, expertise, and modern technology. Providers must navigate multiple projects and interdependencies across systems, stakeholders, and business units.

Key challenges include:

Infrastructure Upgrades

Modernising and hardening existing systems.

Financial Strain

Particularly for Tier 2 providers, who face economic pressures.

Operational Disruptions

Integrating new security measures may cause downtime.

Regulatory Adaptation

Staying compliant with evolving regulations diverts focus from core business activities.

The sector’s high level of mergers and acquisitions adds complexity, requiring providers to manage compliance during organizational changes.

Implementation

Implementing TSA requirements involves introducing advanced cybersecurity measures like real-time threat detection and machine learning-powered analytics. Providers must integrate these technologies into existing systems, plan deployments, and conduct rigorous testing.

Hurdles

Legacy Systems

Many providers rely on outdated infrastructure, which carries technical debt and risks. Replacing these systems is time-intensive and costly.

Human Expertise

Skilled cybersecurity professionals are essential for proactive threat hunting and enhancing automated detections.

Overcoming Compliance Barriers

To succeed, providers must define compliance boundaries, establish governance frameworks, and align business strategies with technical priorities. Developing an actionable roadmap enables providers to address dependencies and streamline projects efficiently.

Despite these challenges, Tier 2 telecom providers remain committed to achieving TSA compliance by March 2025. Many are working tirelessly, dedicating resources, and implementing proportionate technical and operational measures to meet regulatory standards.

By fostering collaboration across business units and embracing innovative security solutions, telecom providers can navigate the compliance journey and strengthen the UK’s digital ecosystem.

Islam Rashad, is Head of Cyber Security Solutions Engineering, at WWT

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Apple’s adoption of RCS is undoubtedly a significant milestone for digital communication. With interactive and secure messaging, RCS enhances customer experience and trust. Brands will be able to engage more effectively with rich content and real-time interactions on a more trustworthy channel.

As Apple integrates RCS, businesses have a prime opportunity to connect with a global audience, driving stronger customer relationships and higher engagement.

Google has backed RCS for a number of years, and Apple’s support with iOS 18 is a game changer for the digital communication market. Apple’s 1.4 billion users will become part of the RCS ecosystem, joining 1.5 billion RCS-enabled Android users. This is an exciting opportunity for brands that want to reach valuable customers across the globe, especially in affluent markets where Apple is widely used.

Interactive experience

RCS shifts the traditional boundaries of messaging by immersing users in a new level of interactive experience. SMS was created for basic text notifications. Although very successful, it has limitations for modern marketing needs. MMS introduced multimedia capabilities but didn’t achieve widespread adoption. RCS has been developed to offer a more feature-rich and interactive communication platform that meets contemporary business and user expectations.

SMS is limited to 160 characters and lacks the ability to include rich content or track message reads. RCS, however, supports video and images, read receipts, real-time reply indicators, branding, and verified senders. It also enables the inclusion of interactive elements like call-to-actions and carousels, providing a more engaging messaging experience.

RCS has only been available on Android handsets, meaning it could never reach global ubiquity. Apple’s upcoming adoption will eventually lead to RCS being supported on every handset globally, making the technology available via the native messaging app on both iOS and Android. Users will not need to download a specific app; it will be available by default as soon as the mobile operator activates it in their network.

This is good news for brands that prioritise user experience for these billions of customers. Data suggests there is a 74 percent higher engagement with brands through RCS compared to SMS, the biggest business messaging channel currently.

Any SMS opt-ins a brand has will be valid for RCS as well, so businesses will not need to get users to opt-in again. Apple has not explicitly announced adoption of RCS business messaging (as opposed to RCS for consumer-to-consumer communication), but it is available in the iOS 18 beta version and should happen. Brands should be ready to use this opportunity for their benefit.

Apple’s adoption of RCS has consumer benefits regardless of which device is used. RCS enables a richer user experience, preventing group chats from breaking between iPhone and Android users and enabling the sending of high-quality images.

Business benefits include read receipts, which are useful for brands to know which messages have been read. By being conversational by nature, RCS enables easy, two-way conversations between brands and consumers, opening up new interactive use cases.

So, how exactly does RCS boost customer experience?  A shopper looking for a new outfit online. Instead of receiving a one-way message reminding them about the blouse left in their cart. Online buyers could benefit from a carousel illustrating how that blouse pairs perfectly with the jeans they previously purchased.

This level of personalization and immediacy builds customer loyalty, as shoppers feel more valued by the brand. Over time, these interactions contribute to a stronger brand reputation and open up new growth opportunities for retailers.

Recent data underscores the effectiveness of conversational messaging, revealing that 71% of UK buyers welcome the option to message retailers about their orders. By adopting RCS, retailers can meet these expectations, providing instant responses that foster trust and drive purchase decisions. In the competitive retail sector, leveraging RCS to facilitate immediate and meaningful conversations can be a game-changer, setting brands apart and propelling them towards sustained success.

In the case of Sinch customer French gourmet frozen food brand Picard,  RCS highlighted a significant boost in customer engagement. Adopting RCS, resulting in a 42 per cent increase in customer engagement attributed to the rich, interactive features of RCS that allowed Picard to offer a more immersive and responsive customer experience.

With real-time interactions and multimedia capabilities, customers found the messaging experience more engaging and informative, contributing to higher satisfaction and brand loyalty.

 Enhanced Security

Adopting RCS is also crucial for ensuring consumers that messages come from the brand they seem to be coming from, thereby reducing the scope of phishing and spam. Brands using verified RCS messaging gain a competitive edge, as 77% of users prefer verified messaging over regular SMS, and 71% feel more confident about businesses using it.

The mobile operators’ robust RCS sender verification processes make it ideal for businesses aiming to enhance customer relationships. With RCS, businesses can align with the evolving landscape of rich messaging while establishing the trustworthiness of their brand. By leveraging RCS, they can not only improve communication but also build customer confidence and loyalty through verified, secure interactions.

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/apples-adoption-rcs-will-game-changer-digital-communication/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/analysis-next-government-needs-tighten-e-waste-disposal/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/analysis/article/analysis-next-government-needs-tighten-e-waste-disposal/#respond Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:31:19 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/analysis-next-government-needs-tighten-e-waste-disposal/ Drastic action needs to be taken to encourage businesses to repair devices rather than replacing them to help boost the UK economy writes Adam Whitehouse founder of TMT First, the Staffordshire provider of technology lifecycle services. Whoever is in power needs to encourage people to get devices repaired – they need to make it easier

Drastic action needs to be taken to encourage businesses to repair devices rather than replacing them to help boost the UK economy writes Adam Whitehouse founder of TMT First, the Staffordshire provider of technology lifecycle services.

Whoever is in power needs to encourage people to get devices repaired – they need to make it easier by introducing sustainable incentives such as removing VAT from refurbished tech or adopting proven schemes like those seen in Europe to incentivise repairs.

It will be virtually impossible for companies to meet the current Government’s targets of becoming net zero by 2050 if steps aren’t taken to encourage business owners to recycle and repair, rather than just replace. With the mountain of electrical waste* predicted to grow to 74 million tonnes a year by 2030 whoever is in power after the General Election needs to:

• Scrap or reduce VAT on technology repairs.

• Introduce a UK repair voucher scheme, to promote sustainable consumption like those seen in other areas of Europe to incentivise people to get their broken electronic devices repaired, rather than, just discarding them and replacing with new.

• Bring in targets so that when businesses aquire tech, at least 10 percent of purchases per year have to be refurbished or repaired devices.

E-waste is the fastest growing waste stream worldwide. According to the Global E-waste Statistics Partnership, 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste was generated in 2019, with only a portion being recycled properly.

The Global E-waste Monitor 2024 states that a record 62 million metric tons of e-waste were generated globally in 2022, that would fill 1.55 million 40-tonne trucks, roughly enough trucks to form a bumper-to-bumper line encircling the equator, and only 22.3 per cent of this e-waste was formally collected and recycled.

This gap between e-waste generation and recycling is expected to widen

This gap between e-waste generation and recycling is expected to widen, with projections indicating that by 2030, e-waste could reach 82 million metric tons, while the documented recycling rate could drop to 20%.

Electronic items, like mobiles, laptops and tablets that could be fixed, too often get thrown away, instead contributing to pollution and increasing the global demand for components including rare earth elements, which when mined can damage local environments.

I want to see incentivising measures introduced to actively encourage consumers and businesses to repair tech or buy refurbished as an alternative to always replacing with new.

Austria for example introduced their support program ‘Repair Bonus,’ which provides vouchers that cover 50 per cent of the costs for repairing home electrical and electronic equipment up to a value of €200. The aim is to give broken electronic devices a ‘second chance,’ increasing the number of refurbished and repaired electrical and electronic equipment.

Back in 2022 the Waste and Electrical Equipment Forum estimated that 5.3 billion mobiles phones would be thrown away – that figure will have only increased. Today the world’s largest device manufacturers including Samsung and Apple provide operating systems and security updates for up to seven years – so there’s no need for these mobile devices to have been thrown away – they can be repaired and repurposed which is far more sustainable.

We are a business that specialises in extending the life of digital devices, but this is much bigger than the part we can play – the climate crisis is real, and we must collectively take action.

People are also more aware of e-waste and the carbon generated during the manufacture of smartphones, tablets or laptops. 

Buying a refurbished device, repairing it or sending it to be recycled when it finally is beyond repair is vital in today’s drive to respect the planet and adopt a more sustainable approach in business. It’s time to give e-waste the attention it needs when we’re looking at future polices and whoever wins at the General Election needs to make a stand.

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With smartphone, tablet and PC sales slowing down due to high adoption rates and offering just incremental improvements from the previous version of devices, Apple needs to reignite consumers excitement to encourage more frequent upgrades. We all remember the long queues outside Apple stores when a new iPhone was launched! The excitement generated by past product launches is critical Apple’s business and brand.

Since the introduction of the iPhone, the iPad, and the Apple watch, Apple has been the undisputable leader in terms of the user experience, and dominated sales of smartphones, tablets and smartwatches in value terms.

Over the last 17 years Apple has not faced any other disruptive technology as potentially detrimental for its business and its future, as AI, if not tackled in the right way. WWDC 2024 offered Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook, an opportunity to demonstrate how the company will lead in making AI a transformative, advanced, and intelligent experience for their users.

AI-enabled devices will be the fastest growing segment in for smartphones and PCs.

AI will enable Apple to offer unique and intelligent features, experiences and services to their customers. However, the key question remains: will these announcements be enough to secure Apple’s leading position? Many competitors (from phones to PCs vendors) have already revealed their AI strategies and devices. How can Apple stand out and how can a partnership with OpenAI help? 

AI-enabled devices will be the fastest growing segment in for smartphones and PCs. IDC forecasts that AI Smartphones to reach 170 million units in 2024, and AI PCs to account for nearly 60% of all PC shipments by 2027.

 Historically, the App Store has been at the heart of the value proposition of Apple’s iPhone and the iPad. The slogan “there’s an App for that” became iconic. However, AI is set to “kill” the apps and a new era is about to begin for Apple and the industry.

Today, the smartphone is not ‘Smart’ anymore. 

 Previously, the more apps the smartphone (and tablets) was able to run, and the more powerful the apps, the better the smartphone (or the tablet). Today, the smartphone is not ‘Smart’ anymore. With AI, the fewer apps needed and the more a phone can use data contextually to assist the user, the better the phone will be. 

This will revolutionise the user experience, requiring an operating system able to learn from all devices and services in Apple’s ecosystem. Apple’s full control of its ecosystem, hardware and software, and seamless integration gives it a significant advantage over competitors and offers consumers the most powerful experiences among all device makers. This is particularly important when the experience will be defined by how well the phone “knows” the user, which can only be achieved by this seamless integration, while making sure the personal information and data remain private.

Although Apple is not the first to offer AI-enabled features, it is in its DNA to offer the perfect experience. AI will not just offer the best experience, but the most powerful, disruptive, personalized and private, and that’s exactly what Apple showed today with Apple Intelligence.

While AI-generated Emojis will grab the headlines, Apple showcased how AI will empower users in several ways, particularly around productivity, education and entertainment.These are the areas where Apple already excels with its range of services and applications.

 As user interaction shifts from opening an app to asking the phone, Siri is the glue to all of this, the killer feature that will attract consumers to AI enabled devices. Siri will offer a unique way to interact with all Apple devices using our voice in a more personalized and conversational manner.

It will become a true digital assistant contextually understanding various aspects of users’ lives and providing human-like responses by accessing data across all devices to provide the right response to the users’ needs. This conversational digital assistant fully integrated with all devices will be a game changer, and I believe it will offer a compelling reason for many to upgrade their iPhones in the years to come.

Apple’s strength lies in the breath of its portfolio and its ecosystem. For consumers, it does not matter what is the definition of an AI-enabled iPhone, or how many TOPs it can run. What matters is how well a phone can assist users in managing their lives. By reducing the need to navigate multiple apps,

Apple’s AI-enabled devices will offer a smoother, more intuitive and smarter experience. This marks the beginning of a new era for Apple and for their users and will help Apple to benefit from a future super cycle of device sales and the transition to intelligent devices in the years to come.

Francisco will be discussing worldwide trends in used mobile phone sales at Mobile News’ secondary markey conference Circular Summit

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.