Paul Murnaghan

Hats off to this initiative - A regional-based 5G model in the UK bringing telecom innovation to the local level - why not in Canada? Interesting model for Canada to consider - a focus on the local & regional level for telecom innovation and investment, instead of the same-old single broad-brush to paint all of Canada. The article below highlights an initiative by Belfast City Council, which has secured £3.8 million wireless innovation funding from the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and become one of 10 5G Innovation Regions across the UK. Over £36 million is being invested in regions across the UK, including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to drive economic growth and innovation in key local sectors by unlocking the opportunities presented by advanced wireless connectivity and digital technologies.  See here for more details on this innovative UK telecom initiative: https://lnkd.in/giTVVQS2 The quotes say it all - per the UK's Minister of Data and Digital Infrastructure, Sir John Whittingdale: “We’re channeling millions into local areas to unlock the potential of cutting-edge 5G wireless and digital technologies which will reshape our public services, drive economic growth and boost innovation. This new fund will give local areas from across the country the opportunity to be at the forefront of the UK’s world-leading 5G revolution. “For instance, by using 5G for farming and creating science parks, we’re not just helping local communities, but also encouraging new ideas all over the UK. This is more than just linking smartphones. It’s about using powerful digital connections to transform various sectors in the economy and the public sector throughout the entire country.” As a counterpoint to this UK approach in fostering grassroots telecom innovation - Canada has consistently taken a highly centralized & top-down model. Canada's top-down / broad brush approach has created economic barriers to telecom investment, with poor end-results on cost & middling results on bridging our chronic rural & First Nations digital divide. Given our poor & middling telecom policy results, why not change things up a bit in Canada? Perhaps it's time for a policy change at Canada's Federal Ministry of ISED and at the CRTC - a subtle change with a shift to a spectrum strategy that optionally allocates some more (not all - just some) spectrum resources to the regional level for distribution & for fostering local / regional tech innovation with municipalities, industry & universities. Given that the municipal & regional level often is able to foster innovation & address service gaps in a more nimble & focused manner - a policy model change worth considering in Canada. #innovation #Canada #ISED #CRTC #telecommunication #policychange #policyalternatives #spectrum #digitaldivide #PSBN #wireless #5G #rural #FirstNations #municipalities #changeisgood

9

"There is a lack of upskilling and insufficient numbers of trainees and graduates entering the telecoms sector to keep the talent pipeline full. Combine this with an ageing workforce, increased competition from big tech and a lack of diversity, and the issue is only exacerbated." This is something we at Analytica Resources Ltd - your OSS/BSS Recruitment Partner have noticed increasingly in recent times, and bringing in and retaining new talent is crucial for the long-term viability of the industry. Thanks for the interesting article, Lesley Holt. #telecom #talent #diversity #warontalent #neurodiversity

5

As we navigate through these turbulent times, it’s essential to stay informed and vigilant about changes to your mobile plan. Keep an eye out for notifications from your provider regarding any upcoming price adjustments, and don’t hesitate to explore alternative options if necessary.

1

Kudos to Linda Hardesty for asking the thoughtful questions! - A U.K. research group predicts that in 10 years many young people will have never subscribed to fixed-line broadband - They already satisfy most of their internet needs over their phones - 6G researchers say cellular will have the speeds and capacity to handle most users' broadband needs in 10 years In the words of T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert, "Wireless is where the future lies." 🔮 Which all sorta begs the question,..how much of the $42 billion BEAD should be allocated to wireless infrastructure? 🤔 Maine Department of Economic and Community Development Maine Connectivity Authority Janet Mills Angus King U.S. Senator Susan Collins Rich Miner #genz #wireless #5G #6G #lastmile #broadband #internet #future #bead

15

5 Comments

As we build to Connected Britain on 11/9, this week LXS starts a mini series attempting to outline the case, complexities and expected benefits realisation of mergers and the consolidation expected in the Altnet industry in H2 l, and into 2025, and maybe most importantly how we can help our clients…

24

It was great to work on this report (link below) in which we considered the role that wireless technology can play in advancing the UK's gigabit infrastructure, sooner, with less public subsidy (news to Rt Hon Rachel Reeves and Rt Hon Keir Starmer's ears) while advancing the case for full fibre. Operators, investors, government, residential and business users, and tax payers all win. What is not to like?

10

2 Comments

Same challenges, different public service. I’ve translated for my #police and justice contacts. NB. Not exhaustive comparisons by any stretch, I can think of many more. Please feel free to add. Electronic health records = electronic crime reports / case files etc. Wearable devices that can remotely monitor patients = electronic monitoring (prevention or offender). Integrated Care System collaboration to enable data-sharing = Data sharing between Community Safety Partnerships, MASHs, ROCUs, CJS, etc. Helping digitally excluded people to download and access the #NHS app to self-serve = Helping digitally excluded people to protect themselves from online fraud etc. Outcomes for real people who rely on public services, underpinned by core technologies. It’s got to be about getting the #basics right to allow for true and impactful innovation.

11

1 Comment

Vodafone's expansion of 5G Standalone networks in the UK could inject a whopping £3 billion annually into the economy, thanks to improved connectivity and efficiency across sectors. Imagine better train journeys, enhanced productivity for remote workers, and significant cost savings for businesses in the transportation sector. With 5G, there are potential productivity gains of £1 billion and 26 million hours saved from decreased delays. An estimated £10 million savings in train delay compensations could be reinvested into vital rail infrastructure. The proposed merger between Vodafone UK and Three UK could pave the way for a massive self-funded infrastructure investment, bringing 5G Standalone to 95% of the population by 2030 and 99% by 2034. As we await the final decision, let's look forward to the enhancements in growth, customer experiences, and competition this merger could bring. What do you think about the possibilities that 5G and this merger could unlock for the UK's future? Share your thoughts! #5GUK #ConnectivityRevolution #FutureInnovation

9

1 Comment

The Shadow Transport Secretary Louise Haigh recently unveiled Labour’s plans for the UK railway system.     We were pleased to see mobile connectivity, including 5G, recognised as a core way to improve passenger service quality.    The integration of advanced 5G technology can transform travel, offering passengers seamless internet access for work and entertainment and providing railway staff with instant access to crucial operational data.    In addition, implementing 5G-enabled sensors on railway tracks could significantly improve infrastructure. Our research shows that by reducing faults and delays, these upgrades are expected to save over 25 million hours for passengers over the next five years, boosting both productivity and well-being with an estimated value of £326 million.    As a result of our proposed merger with Three UK, we can provide extensive 5G coverage for the majority of the UK’s railway stations and tracks, contributing to a more efficient and connected future for UK rail transport.   #TogetherWeCan #5G 

477

5 Comments

5G-connected technologies in public buildings could help councils slash their energy bills, saving taxpayer cash and reducing their carbon emissions. Read more about how individual public sector organisations could be saving millions https://bit.ly/3Atcif7

24

Vodafone has reaffirmed its commitment to providing 5G Standalone (5G SA) to Northern Ireland, as a result of its proposed merger with Three UK. Northern Ireland stands to gain billions in productivity benefits from 5G Standalone (5G SA). The roll out of the latest version of 5G technology (5G SA), would mean communities across Northern Ireland – including those in rural locations – could take advantage of the most up-to-date technology in areas spanning Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education and Agriculture. The Proposed merger could also commit to exceeding the UK Government’s Shared Rural Network 4G coverage targets, and extend 5G into rural Northern Ireland communities. Vodafone’s existing 4G network is a lifeline for many of Northern Ireland’s rural communities, while 5G is already available in a number of locations across the country. https://lnkd.in/dSGGqVzK

8

Will these changes to the proposed deal help Vodafone and Three UK get their merger approved? As well as already pledging spectrum deals with Virgin Media O2 and massive capex investment, the companies now have added a commitment to keep prices low as well as a pricing structure to encourage MVNOs to be able to use their network (or leverage a price guarantee. Hopefully this will help give the regulator enough to be able to say they have done their job and that they can approve this deal – the UK telecoms market needs some certainty and a jolt to enable a re-set and investment. #connectivity #private5g #investment #innovation #mnos #2g #3g #4g #5g #business #enterprise #UK #regulation #towers #masts #inbuilding #property #realestate #growth #mobile #mobilenetworks #telecoms #telecommunications #technology https://lnkd.in/eSKpTdY9

32

2 Comments

Great article highlighting one of the points that has had a major impact on the deployment of networks across the globe - how Governments 'sell' spectrum to MNOs and the impact this can have on rollouts. We have seen auctions in the past that have raised billions for Government coffers, but that leaves MNOs with major headaches in terms of monetisation as they then must upgrade (or build) masts and networks across the entire country, add new active equipment and provision upgraded backhaul, all of which is expensive, especially when they are in price wars with each other for customers. Renewals of these spectrum allocations will become more and more of an issue as the original licence periods expire, interesting to see how the German regulator is approaching the issue – especially considering their decisions creating new challenger companies when other M&A has taken place which potentially creates more headaches later on. Worth a read. #connectivity #networks #spectrum #strategy #investment #innovation #mnos #regulation #2g #3g #4g #5g #business #enterprise #germany #europe #UK #growth #mobile #mobilenetworks #telecoms #telecommunications https://lnkd.in/ejVdwW6T

5

Need another great reason for the Competition and Markets Authority to approve the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three UK? Try improved railway coverage! According to the MNOs if the merger is approved it will mean they can deploy true 5G across the UK’s rail network, which they claim would unlock £3 billion for the UK economy. I am always sceptical on some stats like this, not to mention others like how stand-alone 5G would reduce delays on the rail network, but it would be nice to be able to connect when on a train! #connectivity #networks #investment #innovation #mnos #2g #3g #4g #5g #business #UK #masts #growth #mobile #mobilenetworks #telecoms #telecommunications #technology #rail #railways https://lnkd.in/ee8yrxHt

9

2 Comments

Our @VerizonBusiness CRO of Global Enterprise & Public Sector, Massimo Peselli had some interesting thoughts on innovation and connectivity following Wednesday's Innovation Sessions event at Radio City Music Hall. What is your take on technology's future impact on the entertainment industry?

3

As I walked out of Thames Tower at the end of another successful Imagine Live event last week, I reflected on the ingredients that make this event so special and important.   Imagine Live is an annual event where we invite customers and colleagues into our UK HQ to showcase Ericsson’s products and services. Each day is dedicated to a different customer, with time for our team to explore as well. With 5 keynotes, 10 workshops and around 15 demonstrations there were lots of opportunities to share insights and explore Ericsson’s technology. The event works so well because:   1.     We’re focused on the customer. With over 60 customers every event, that’s 250+ customers over the four days. Aside from what they learn about Ericsson UK & Ireland, customers told me how valuable our event is in getting different parts of their businesses together in one place. It makes for a good team day. There is also a lot of collaboration too, where we work with our customers to solve shared challenges, diving deep into topics like monetizing 5G. Unlike a large industry event such as MWC, at Imagine Live we can offer each of our customers closed sessions where we showcase developments without their competitors being in the room. That’s another plus. 2.     There’s the magic of gathering in-person. It was wonderful to see our space bursting to the seams with customers and colleagues. All that human interaction! It generated such a buzz. It's exciting - and necessary - to have face-to-face interaction at scale. That energy doesn’t happen the same way online via Teams. It’s also the kind of event where you can have many important conversations, not by following a tight agenda, but instead creating the space that allows collaborative conversations to happen. One customer told me they’d achieved more here in three hours on a project than they had in three months! Being outside of their own offices’ customers get a different perspective on their business. 3.     We can get up-close with the technology. At Imagine Live, you can see, touch and feel our latest work and innovations. Even for someone like me who is very familiar with our products and services, nothing beats seeing it in action. There was a popular demo on how network slicing works in a stadium environment, operating end to end. I could see a real ‘light bulb’ moment in the room where people suddenly went: ‘I really get it now!’   Thanks to the team behind the event who bring everything together seamlessly, and to our customers for coming along and seeing what we’re up to. The exciting thing to me is that next year we’ll have a whole host of new technology to showcase. I can't wait!   #ImagineLive2024 #CustomerEvent #Collaboration #5G

193

4 Comments

A report from Kinetic found that speed (36%) and reliability (35%) are top internet priorities for small businesses – which are responsible for more than 40% of our country’s economic output and two-thirds of new jobs.   Telecom Ramblings shares how our new bundled fiber and voice services specifically tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized business give them an enterprise-grade experience that will scale with them as they grow.   👉Read more here: https://bit.ly/40kRKAs.

12

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  

4

Great to be on the main stage at Connected Britain moderating a panel. Many interesting points were raised - including the focus on best-in-class build and connection costs, the drive to cash breakeven, whether the market will split wholesale providers and retail ISPs, the difficulty of aligning multiple investors in consolidation which will limit the pace of consolidation and increase the possibility of distressed assets, a switch to rural build for some players to get first mover advantage and resetting take up expectations in the likelihood of 3x overbuild for most premises on average.

30

2 Comments