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In a significant move aimed at bolstering cybersecurity across the country, the UK government has rolled out stringent regulations requiring manufacturers of internet-connected devices to adhere to minimum-security standards. The new laws, part of the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act 2022, are designed to mitigate the risks posed by weak security features on smart gadgets.

A recent market study by INCA (Independent Networks Cooperative Association) and Point Topic reveals that alternative network builders in the UK have collectively expanded fibre infrastructure to more premises than BT’s Openreach unit. By the end of 2023, UK altnets had reached 12.9 million premises with fibre, exceeding Openreach’s coverage of 12.8 million.

The Australian investment bank, Macquarie, is reportedly considering an exit from KCom amidst escalating competition within the UK alternative network (altnet) sector. A recent report in The Telegraph suggests that Macquarie has engaged advisors from PJT Partners to conduct a strategic review of KCom, indicating potential changes on the horizon.

Vodafone has achieved a significant milestone in the UK’s Shared Rural Network (SRN) initiative, announcing the activation of its 200th site. This accomplishment marks a notable improvement from the 57 sites operational a year ago, underlining the urgency faced by the country’s major mobile network operators (MNOs) to meet rural coverage obligations.

PJT Partners sets out to scrutinize UK telecom operator, KCOM’s business strategy, a move that could trigger significant changes like a sale or merger. This arises from previous disclosures regarding the potential interest of CityFibre and Virgin Media O2 in purchasing the uniquely positioned company that operates independently of BT’s Openreach network.

BT joins forces with UK Business Climate Hub to empower small to medium UK businesses to slash their CO2e emissions in half by 2030. The strategic partnership aims to combat climate change, utilizing BT’s experience and UKBCH’s resources, ultimately championing for net-zero emissions by 2050. However, reaching these transformational green goals may prove challenging for many businesses, highlighting the necessity of this collaborative initiative.

Evidence reveals rising customer dissatisfaction with automated systems in UK businesses, according to a study by Cavell. Chatbots and similar technologies appear to fail in meeting customer service expectations, with 44% of respondents noting a quality slip in service over the past three years. Many UK adults still prefer human assistance in resolving issues, revealing a persistent demand for more personalised, efficient support mechanisms.

The UK Government’s newly established Critical Imports Council aims to lessen the disturbance of essential goods flow from unpredictable global supply chain disruptions. Business and Trade Minister, Alan Mak, highlights strengthening critical goods supply against real-world crises through collaborative efforts with industry experts. With representation from diverse sectors including telecommunications, the council will focus on assessing risks and creating robust mitigation strategies.

Bridging the digital divide in vast and harsh terrains like the Scottish Highlands, VMO2 embarks on a novel approach, utilizing a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites from Starlink for critical backhaul services. Bypassing conventional, costly terrestrial infrastructure, VMO2’s tests have proven the potency of satellite technology in improving coverage across the UK.