Three’s 5G network now reaches 62% of the UK’s population, expanding to 656 locations and 4,900 sites nationwide. This growth in Three’s 5G coverage is part of a strategic push to enhance 4G services and significantly expand 5G capabilities, aiming to elevate the UK’s digital infrastructure.
EE’s rapid 5G small cell deployment, with over 1,000 active installations, marks a significant advancement in the UK’s mobile infrastructure. These small cells, strategically deployed in high-demand areas like London, enhance mobile capacity and performance. Leveraging advanced network analytics and collaboration with partners like Nokia and Ericsson, EE optimizes network efficiency, ensuring top-notch connectivity.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new rules for AI-generated robocalls and texts. Aiming for transparency, the FCC mandates prior consumer consent and clear AI-generated disclosure for each message. This initiative seeks to protect consumers from scams while exploring AI’s positive applications, such as aiding people with disabilities.
Enreach UK has launched Enreach Contact Anywhere, a Fixed-Mobile Convergence (FMC) solution that integrates fixed-line and mobile services. By using one number and one device, this innovative solution addresses the increasing need for efficient mobile usage within businesses, boosting productivity and simplifying professional communications across various industry sectors.
The UK Competition and Markets Authority has extended the deadline for its £15 billion Vodafone-Three merger investigation to 7 December. This delay highlights the broad scope and technical complexity of the inquiry. Vodafone-Three merger promises significant benefits, such as enhanced competition and transformation of the UK’s digital infrastructure.
Cellnex is nearing the sale of its Austrian operations, with multiple offers on the table and advanced negotiations underway. This news, alongside strong first-half financial results, boosted investor confidence despite a net loss of €418 million. The sale is part of Cellnex’s strategy to divest non-core assets and focus on debt reduction and organic growth, resulting in improved revenues and reduced net debt.
South Korea has officially revoked the mobile license of Stage X, led by Stage Five, an affiliate of tech giant Kakao Corp. The Ministry of Science and ICT cited failure to meet financial and operational criteria as reasons. Stage X aimed to join established carriers like SK Telecom and KT but struggled to secure necessary capital.
Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, introduces robust measures to combat scam calls from abroad. By mandating that phone companies block calls with fake UK landline numbers, Ofcom aims to curb ‘spoofing’ and protect consumers. With BT successfully blocking up to one million calls daily, the initiative promises enhanced public safety and fewer scam calls.
Boldyn Networks is set to unveil a pioneering 5G Innovation Lab at the Port of Blyth, thanks to a £500,000 investment from the North East Combined Authority’s 5G Innovation Acceleration program. The lab will offer businesses a secure, high-bandwidth environment to test smart manufacturing technologies, boosting the region’s tech landscape.
Vodafone Group has strategically sold a 10% stake in Vantage Towers for 1.3 billion euros ($1.4 billion). This aligns with Vodafone’s targets to reduce net debt. Vantage Towers manages 84,600 tower sites, enhancing coverage with small cell systems. The divestment strengthens Vodafone’s financial health while prioritizing debt reduction over asset control.
