Paul Gainham

Below is FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel's nifty video explaining the broadband labels rule. Background: Beginning April 10, 2024, consumers should look for broadband labels at any point of sale, including online and in stores. The labels must disclose important information about broadband prices, introductory rates, data allowances, and broadband speeds. They also include links to information about network management practices and privacy policies. While many providers will begin displaying their labels in April, providers with less than 100,000 subscribers have until Oct. 10, 2024, to comply with the FCC rules to display broadband labels at their points of sale.  Regarding accessibility - the new rules require that the broadband label be accessible to people with disabilities at all points of sale, and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are strongly encouraged to comply with the legal requirements included in the ADA and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). New 47 CFR Sec. 8.1(a)(1) expressly states: "Any person providing broadband internet access service shall create and display an accurate broadband consumer label for each stand-alone broadband internet access service it currently offers for purchase. The label must be prominently displayed, publicly available, and easily accessible to consumers, including consumers with disabilities, at the point of sale with the content and in the format prescribed by the Commission in “[Fixed or Mobile] Broadband Consumer Disclosure. . .”. https://lnkd.in/eCdpWa6X). Outstanding accessibility issues in this proceeding include: Additional ways to improve accessibility of the broadband label, such as video calling services to provide customer service in American Sign Language, irrespective of whether the broadband label information is provided in hard copy or digitally; whether to require Braille or a Quick Response (QR) code with a tactile indicator for blind or visually impaired consumers at the point of sale; and whether to mandate any specific WCAG suggestions, sections, and criteria for the broadband label, such as specific sections of WCAG 2.1, which suggests providing text alternatives for any non-text content, or providing definitions of idioms, jargon, and abbreviations. The comment period closed March 16, 2023. https://lnkd.in/eD77veYn. For general broadband labeling information, visit: https://lnkd.in/eJWQjv4k. For accessibility questions, contact us at dro@fcc.gov, 202-418-2517, or 844-432-2275 (ASL/videophone). #fcc #disabilityrights

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I see that Ofcom has announced timelines for the UK's #mmWave #5G auctions, now scheduled for October 2025. It had a quick check to see if the recent CMA update about the Vodafone / Three UK merger impacted their thinking, and decided it was fine. I've long been a mmWave skeptic, although I have wondered for a while if it's due for a bit of a renaissance, especially with the move towards more shared and #neutralhost models for wireless, and another round of tech innovation on both the RAN and specifically RF elements. I'm not sure if there's anything in Release 17+ that specifically changes the game, but maybe some of the tweaks on uplink, MIMO or coordinated multi-point could help. It has scope for #indoorwireless and #private5G in some contexts as well, although device support is a different matter, especially for IoT. Maybe there's still some mileage in mmWave FWA as well - I've seen claims of it delivering high bandwidth services over 5-10 kilometres ranges, but don't know if that needs particularly unique or costly base stations or CPE. One thing I think is undeniable though - if the wireless industry still can't make 24-40GHz useful after another round of efforts, we can finally write off any #6G visions of sub-THz / 100-300GHz unless something miraculous turns up in research. Both S Korean operators and T-Mobile US have handed back their mmWave frequencies, despite time and investment. One other mmWave thought - the last time the European Commission tried mandating common rules for spectrum was when it defined the "pioneer bands" for 5G. While it seems to have been sensible about harmonising 3.4-3.8GHz C-band, its too-early stance on mmWave looks silly in hindsight - the UK was lucky to have been able to ignore it. This doesn't suggest the recent policy direction of #spectrum harmonisation in time for 6G is necessarily optimal either. Better to leave it up to individual countries' regulators to decide the rules and timelines. https://lnkd.in/ecGn3E9c

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I recently joined Joe Barrett from the GSA and Justin Springham from Mobile World Live, to discuss how the convergence of AI and 5G-Advanced (5.5G) is set to revolutionise mobile networks. Key takeaways from the discussion: AI-powered optimisation: We explore how AI can enhance network efficiency, performance, and adaptability by automating tasks, optimising resource allocation, and predicting potential issues. The potential of RedCap: We delve into the exciting possibilities of RedCap (Reduced Capability), a 5G feature designed to support mid-tier use cases like industrial sensors and wearables, opening up new opportunities for innovation. FWA momentum: We discuss the continued growth and potential of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) as a viable alternative to traditional fixed-line broadband, particularly in underserved areas. Watch the full discussion to gain valuable insights into the future of mobile networks: https://lnkd.in/gETCF2cv #AI #5GAdvanced #5G #RedCap #FWA #MobileNetworks #Innovation #Telecoms

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Where there's an SLA there's value. Where there's value there's money. But how far are telcos prepared to go to deliver real business outcomes to enterprises? While SLA's are not new, having been around in the fixed / VPN world for some time, the rise of 5G standalone and the potential for network slicing to deliver greater service guarantees in a mobile context is shining a spotlight on this area again. If a typical SLA looks at network uptime / throughput / service restoration periods etc. outcome based pricing takes a step further and looks at the provision of a real business outcome such as compliance, productivity and business financial performance metrics. Greater operational risk for the telco? Yes. Greater reward and differentiation? yes. #telco #telecom #SLA #B2B #5G #monetization MATRIXX Software

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Making a private weekend chat public. What is the most important thing to change in how we are approaching 6G? eg. if we can only change one fundamental thing, what will have the biggest impact? - Operator led not vendor/academia led? - Maximum usefulness versus sci-fi use cases? - Commercial business case rather than technical playground? - What else? This is on the back of many discussions at the rather wonderful TelecomTV #GreatTelcoDebate last week, where many thoughtful people discussed such things with an open mind. If we look at our current industry financial benchmarks there is a need for an industry reset which means there is a need for a #6greset. The challenge is how to even start... https://lnkd.in/eSh2XnPz

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The consolidation of the wholesale #networks market—shown by the recent mergers of nexfibre / Upp and Netomnia / Brsk —reflects how difficult it is for #altnets to scale. Still, larger telcos must weigh the investment opportunities alongside a new set of difficulties that come from integrating newly acquired networks. AI-driven tools offer a way to accelerate ROI and enhance customer retention through the integration process, streamlining integration, reducing OpEx, and maintaining network quality. Read the full blog from our Head of Telco Media Tech Industry, Keith McAleese, to learn five AI-powered steps for seamless integration: https://bit.ly/4hNnJja #NTTDATA #Telco #AI #DigitalTransformation

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As much as we try not to be, today we realised that SDWAN and SASE Solutions are true stereotypes of the Telecoms industry: Spot the Salesperson, the CTO, the CMO and the founder guy.....And if you are wondering why I even wear an OMNIA T-Shirt in the metaverse, click here: https://lnkd.in/ed6vvgEM *Channel partners, MSPs, MSSPs and Resellers - visit our channel page to boost your revenues, especially as your customers demand MPLS replacements *SMEs: get fully managed enterprise-grade network and security solutions at SME affordable pricing levels *Enterprise: don't pay over the top or upfront for outdated tiered SD-WAN or encryption licences #smetoo #itdirector #channel #newwaysofworking #omnia #innovation

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NEW PODCAST ALERT 🎙️ The Mobile World Live team rundown the biggest telecoms and technology stories in 2024, including reaction to #Ericsson’s threat to leave Europe, #Nokia’s mobile networks future and major satellite launches. Looking ahead to 2025, we also give you our predictions for next year. Apple: https://lnkd.in/eJfefNhd Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e2Xx93pX MWL: https://lnkd.in/ed3xNBsE Kavit Majithia Chris Donkin Michael Robuck Amiya Johar

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This is a great potential way to monetise 5G networks for MNOs – network slicing with different charging models depending on capacity used. @Vodafone trailed the approach at this year’s #Glastonbury Festival This sort of deployment of networks would allow much more flexibility for vendors as well as reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions costing business’ money. Also amazing is that according to Vodafone, 200,000 people attended this year’s festival, generating 225 TB of data across its network — a year-on-year increase of 33% - massive numbers! #connectivity #networks #investment #innovation #mnos #2g #3g #4g #5g #business #enterprise #UK #towers #masts #growth #mobile #mobilenetworks #telecoms #telecommunications #technology #slicing https://lnkd.in/eQdisy2f

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Mobile History Quiz - for those that remember Oct 1994 Perhaps an early Dads Xmas quiz, based on Global Mobile stats for W. Europe covering 63 networks in 22 countries, and 6 networks in the UK alone covering Analogue and Digital (GSM 900 and PCN). Q1 - Customer total (subs) .....12.774 M, with the UK just exceeding 3.03 M Q2 - Annual W Europe growth .........59.62% and penetration 3.31% of popltn Q3 - Analogue / Digital totals (subs) ......1G 9.43M/ 2G 3.34M Q4 - Leading markets (subs) .....UK / Germany / Italy / Sweden Q5 - Leading markets (% penetration-popltn) .... Swe/Nor/ Fin/ Dk/Icld All before Prepay/ SMS / MEmail /Bluetooth/ M Internet/ Cameraphones/ VoIP/ Private networks/ Wifi / 3G - 5G and ........so much more. With over 100% penetration in W Europe today, and no more Analogue 1G, what will the next 30 years hold ? Source : Global Mobile Volume 1 - 1st edition (16/11/1994) Thankyou Mark Newman Global editor

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Seeing a lot of talk about the UK’s 5G capabilities recently, but just how true is it? Well, our 5G connection is lagging behind other G7 nations, and the situation isn’t improving. With average speeds falling short, even city dwellers are grappling with unreliable service. A recent report highlighted that British users access 5G only about 10% of the time, a stark contrast to more than 40% in India. The root causes are multifaceted, But a lack of long-term investment and poor planning frameworks have compounded the problem. The £500 million announced in this weeks’ budget doesn’t touch the sides of the estimated £37 billion needed for full 5G rollout by 2030. This isn’t just about loading memes faster; it’s about adding £159 billion to the UK economy by 2035 through seamless connectivity. #5G #UKTelecom #DigitalEconomy #InfrastructureInvestment

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This is a strange one - the description implies that it is only tuning of the video encoding which Meta could do itself without Vodafone. However there is little detail to explain how this is a partnership at all. There are possible implications that there may be some other form of traffic shaping taking place - if so then network neutrality rules may apply, but exactly how or if they do is not possible to identify off the press release.

Openreach, the UK digital network provider owned and run at arm’s length by BT Group, is taking a significant step towards a more agile and automated future with the deployment of Nokia's Altiplano Access Controller platform across its fibre network. This move is important for the continuing shift over to Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and its potential to revolutionise fixed and fibre connectivity in the UK. Why this matters: ▪ Enhanced Network Automation: Altiplano's SDN capabilities will enable Openreach to automate network management tasks, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. ▪ Improved Network Visibility: The platform should provide real-time insights into network performance, enabling proactive identification and resolution of issues. ▪ Increased Agility: SDN allows for dynamic provisioning of services, enabling Openreach to respond quickly to customer demands and market changes. It's probably very obvious why this is all very useful but providing fibre to the premises in both domestic and business environments is becoming increasingly mission critical for many. Adding in this level of control to large parts of the network should mean that the service is more reliable as issues are identified and resolved earlier and more quickly. That said, its not an easy integration process and is likely to take longer than many anticipate. The good news is that once it has been deployed it will be available to all providers who utilise Openreach network for their networks. In reality that is most of the broadband networks in the UK. #Openreach #Nokia #Altiplano #SDN #Fibre #Connectivity #Innovation #Telecommunications #UK

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This is really awesome to see - #mnos starting to find ways to help reduce power usage and therefore reduce #CO2 while also running their networks at peak capacity. Great to see this #innovation from EE, Ericsson and Nokia to keep networks running while also reducing power consumption. This is something we at Shared Access are working with MNOs on, in particular with regard to our innovative BTS Hotel model (Base Station Hotel) which connects multiple buildings to one comms room rather than building multiple comms room, in particular working with MNOs to use 5 watt radios instead of 20 watt radios. This is so important to us all – we cant live without mobile networks, but reducing their CO2 output is key. #connectivity #networks #power #powerconsumption #investment #innovation #mnos #2g #3g #4g #5g #business #enterprise #UK #towers #masts #inbuilding #property #realestate #growth #mobile #mobilenetworks #telecoms #telecommunications #technology #wifi #fibre https://lnkd.in/eG3VJ6KU

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Interesting insights from Michela Menting of ABI Research on how telcos can handle rising 5G security demands. She highlights how solutions like XDR and automation can ease the pressure on security teams, providing smarter, more efficient threat management. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/dVi3c2nM

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This is worth a read, in my humble opinion. A piece I put together for VanillaPlus based on our recent Position Paper with ng-voice about the need for IoT connectivity providers to include a scalable native IP voice service (VoLTE/VoNR) in their portfolio. #IoT

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Excellent to be featured among other industry experts in Comms Dealer's October Kaleidoscope where I delved into the potential of emerging technologies like IoT in a world that's constantly evolving. In my opinion, embracing these advancements in the telco industry will definitely open doors to new possibilities. How we define 'communication and collaboration' isn't the same as when I first joined the industry. One thing for certain, two things for sure, we're driving progress and connectivity in ways we only begun to imagine.   Full feature here: https://lnkd.in/eWmhAD-H  

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With the focus having firmly shifted to penetration and takeup away from scaling build, delivering profitability remains a critical challenge for fibre operators and investors. Our latest whitepaper is out, with insights gleaned from our recent panel discussion

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