The FCC has recently approved rule changes aimed at streamlining access to the 70 GHz, 80 GHz, and 90 GHz spectrum bands, immensely benefiting airborne and waterborne vehicles and promoting more innovative broadband service options. These updates will also impact the way backhaul service for 5G operates, enabling smaller, lower-cost antennas to be utilized, and ensuring a more efficient use of the spectrum through modifying the link registration process.
Ofcom’s annual report, “Connected Nations,” provides a comprehensive update on the state of broadband and mobile services in the UK. The report reveals a noteworthy advancement, indicating that 78% of the UK now enjoys gigabit-capable broadband, marking an 8% surge from the previous year’s 70% coverage.
Major UK business groups are urging telecoms regulator Ofcom to extend the automatic compensation scheme for broadband outages to encompass all businesses. This demand highlights frustrations over unreliable broadband services impacting productivity and economic growth. Existing compensation covers only domestic-grade services, leaving many businesses without recourse for connectivity issues.
The recent partnership between CityFibre and Sky has significant implications for the UK’s broadband market, potentially challenging BT’s dominance. This deal extends Sky’s services, enhancing competition and driving innovation. Industry experts suggest that while BT faces pressure, the partnership signals confidence in the emerging alternative networks.
SECOM, a subsidiary of Southeast Colorado Power Association, is revolutionizing rural southern Colorado’s connectivity with Infinera’s XTM Series optical transport solution. This project aims to deliver multi-gigabit broadband services, enhancing network flexibility and reliability. With a modernized middle-mile and business Ethernet access network, SECOM empowers thousands of homes and businesses.
LiveOak Fiber, a regional broadband service provider, has secured USD 250 million in financing to expand its fiber network in underserved Southeast U.S. communities. Since June 2022, LiveOak has rapidly grown, investing over USD 200 million and deploying 1,000 miles of fiber. This funding will enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide.
Point Topic’s recent analysis reveals that global fixed broadband connections will rise to 1.39 billion by the end of this decade. While some regions will reach near-saturation, others will see significant growth opportunities.
In an effort to simplify broadband service switching for UK residents, the telecommunications regulator Ofcom has introduced new rules effective from 12 September 2024. To support this initiative, iconectiv UK Limited announced its registration as a Managed Access Provider (MAP) with The One Touch Switching Company (TOTSCo). This move will provide UK Communications Providers (CPs) with the necessary flexibility to comply with the evolving residential broadband market.
Broadband infrastructure provider Openreach has unveiled plans to extend its full fibre broadband services to 517 additional locations across the UK, bringing fibre-to-the-premise (FTTP) to an extra 2.7 million homes and businesses. This ambitious rollout includes 400,000 homes in rural areas, highlighting Openreach’s commitment to bridging the digital divide.
Access to fast and reliable internet is increasingly crucial in today’s society, but while efforts often focus on rural communities, many urban areas are left underserved. Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs) present a particular challenge due to complex installation requirements and regulatory hurdles. MS3 Networks, in partnership with HCC, is spearheading a solution to this issue, granting tenants in MDUs access to a variety of broadband providers.
