The European Commission is urging member states to conduct shared risk assessments in key tech realms including advanced semiconductors, AI, quantum tech, and biotech. Amidst the cloud of geopolitical tech skirmishes, EU stands poised to protect sensitive technologies and is resolved not to preemptively decide on any corrective measures. Only time will reveal the Commission’s next steps after risk assessments.
Top tech giants, including Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft, have recently been identified by the European Commission under the new Digital Markets Act (DMA) as potential digital ‘gatekeepers’. These firms, commanding vast economic and influential prowess, now sit waiting during a 45 day review period that could officially brand them as such. Following the conclusion of the evaluation process, each company will need to navigate a six-month transition to achieve full compliance with the DMA directives. These guidelines are aimed at fostering competition and safeguarding both end-user rights and the interests of small scale businesses.
European Commission’s concerns over the Orange-MasMovil merger in Spain may hinder the deal, potentially affecting competition within the country’s telecommunications market. Remedies, such as wholesale access to virtual players, could be proposed to address objections and prevent price increases for consumers.
Vodafone explores potential sale of its Spanish operations as the European Commission investigates Orange Spain and MasMovil merger, impacting competition in the telecom sector. The outcome could influence Vodafone’s decision, with potential investors such as Apollo Global Management and Apax Partners being considered.
The European Commission allocates $9.2 billion for R&D initiatives in telecoms and semiconductor sectors, targeting innovative microelectronics, 5G and 6G technologies. To support digital sovereignty goals, private investment of $15.5 billion and 56 companies are involved.
The European Commission clears Inmarsat’s acquisition by Viasat, assuring competition in the in-flight broadband landscape. While the market anticipates increased opportunities for current players and new entrants, upcoming deals like SES/Intelsat and Eutelsat/OneWeb may pose complex challenges for regulators.
Germany is investing €5 billion in a new semiconductor manufacturing facility in Dresden through the European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC) initiative. The facility will leverage advanced technologies like FinFET and aims to reduce Europe’s dependence on U.S. and Chinese semiconductor imports. This strategic move promises to enhance Germany’s role in the global semiconductor industry.
The German government’s significant boost to its fibre network funding from €12 billion to €38 billion aims to accelerate fibre infrastructure rollout and extend aid until 2028. This increased funding empowers local authorities to deploy or outsource fibre networks, addressing Germany’s lag in fibre penetration.
The new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act in the European Union heralds a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI development and usage, with major provisions taking effect by August 2024. Central to VoIP technology, the Act categorizes AI systems by risk levels, implementing stringent regulations for high-risk categories, ensuring security and transparency in AI-driven communications.
Telecom Italia (TIM) celebrates the successful sale of its fixed-line grid to the Optics BidCo consortium, led by investment firm KKR. This strategic move aims to reduce TIM’s significant net financial debt and marks a first in major European telecom history.
