Telecoms | UK Regulatory Outlook September 2024

Ofcom publishes statement and further consultation on its shared access framework

On 24 July Ofcom published a statement and further consultation for supporting increased use of shared spectrum. This follows the consultation which it launched in November 2023, based on which it has decided to:

• reduce separation distances between users in the 3.8-4.2 GHz spectrum band;
• open up rules relating to sharing in order to support new use cases (for example an increase in the maximum power limit of its "Low Power" product in 3.8-4.2 GHz by 3 dB);
• add new spectrum at 2320-2340 MHz to the framework. This will be available for Low Power indoor use; and
• make improvements to the application process for users. For instance having a simpler route for requesting exceptions.

Ofcom's target implementation date for the above changes is Q4 2024.

In order to support greater use of the Shared Access framework, Ofcom is now proposing to:

• enable operation at Medium Power use in the 1800 MHz and 3.8-4.2 GHz band in all urban areas other than Greater London, without any need to apply for an exemption;
• apply a new price for Medium Power deployments in urban areas that is double the cost for Low Power ones. The aim would be to encourage efficient use of the bands;
• remove the requirement to register mobile terminals connected to Low Power outdoor base stations in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band. The hope is that this would enable the creation of new business models.

Ofcom guidance on broadband information comes Into force

On 13 December 2023 Ofcom published guidance on the information that must be provided to consumers regarding their broadband services. As of 16 September 2024 providers must now comply with that guidance. More specifically, they must:

• "give a short description of the underlying network technology of each broadband product using one or two terms that are clear and unambiguous, such as ‘cable’, ‘copper’, ‘full-fibre’ or part-fibre’. These descriptions should be offered at point of sale on the website, and before the final purchase in contract information, and in the contract summary;
• not be use the term ‘fibre’ on its own to describe the underlying broadband technology. This would mean, for instance, that ‘full-fibre’ (or a similar term) is only used to describe networks which use fibre-optic cables all the way from the exchange to the home. Similarly, ‘part-fibre’ (or a similar term) would describe those services with a fibre-optic connection from the local exchange to the street cabinet and then usually a copper wire connecting the street cabinet to the customer’s home; and
• give a more thorough explanation of the underlying broadband technology - for example through a link - so that consumers can understand in more detail what it means for them. This information must be provided in an accessible form that is easy to understand."