As expected Apple have released an update to iTunes to take it to v7.7 and the new feature is the App Store.
There are around 100 free apps and quite a few commercial ones too.
Existing iPhone users will have to wait for the version 2 software update and the 3G iPhone should be available tomorrow [11/07/08] (depending on stock - which in the UK is meant to be severely limited).
Customers can select software by category, whether it's "free" or not and for the iPhone or iTouch.
Though there's quite a bit of software for the launch, it's somewhat surprising there isn't more, though developers may not be too pleased with the current system as the app is tied to the dowloading version of iTunes which means it can be saved on any iPhone/iTouch which has a relationship with that system.
2008/07/09
Touchscreen BlackBerry Thunder Keyboard To Utilize Haptic Technology... AMAZING Implementation! | CrackBerry.com
Touchscreen BlackBerry Thunder Keyboard To Utilize Haptic Technology... AMAZING Implementation! | CrackBerry.com
The Crackberry rumour site are reporting that the Blackberry Thunder will contain haptic technology that will give positive feedback on the virtual keyboard i.e. so when a user touches the screen on a certain letter, the screen will "push back" or slightly raise against the touch.
The screen is 360 by 480 and made of glass or a glass like substance. The web browser in the Blackberry is also based on the same engine that the iPhone uses.
If true it will certainly be a blow to Apple as the Thunder may well be the iPhone killer.
The Crackberry rumour site are reporting that the Blackberry Thunder will contain haptic technology that will give positive feedback on the virtual keyboard i.e. so when a user touches the screen on a certain letter, the screen will "push back" or slightly raise against the touch.
The screen is 360 by 480 and made of glass or a glass like substance. The web browser in the Blackberry is also based on the same engine that the iPhone uses.
If true it will certainly be a blow to Apple as the Thunder may well be the iPhone killer.
Inside Microsoft’s Internet Infrastructure & Its Plans For The Future - GigaOM
Inside Microsoft’s Internet Infrastructure & Its Plans For The Future - GigaOM
Microsoft is building it's own CDN (content delivery network), they currently have a 100Gb/s backbone which they'll increase to 500Gb/s. They seem to be using Level 3 for the network (who already provide CDN services themselves).
They are linking 99 datacentres and adding 10,000 servers a month.
It looks like MS are gunning for Google/Amazon in the cloud-computing/data storage markets.
Microsoft is building it's own CDN (content delivery network), they currently have a 100Gb/s backbone which they'll increase to 500Gb/s. They seem to be using Level 3 for the network (who already provide CDN services themselves).
They are linking 99 datacentres and adding 10,000 servers a month.
It looks like MS are gunning for Google/Amazon in the cloud-computing/data storage markets.
O2 sites crashes with 3G iPhone demand
O2's site went down this week due to the massive demand for iPhones.
When the initial iPhone was announced O2 has 35,000 initial web inquiries, with the 3G variant they had 200,000 inquiries.
O2 say that Apple is restricting supplies and they may have difficulties satisfying demand.
The iPhone is still considered a consumer phone even with its push email and VPN capabilities, though O2 has announced business tariffs.
RIM's new Blackberry Bold (which seems to be delayed until August) has missed a trick as it could have caused a dent to Apple's launch, especially as it now has the iTunes (iPod) client software built-in.
When the initial iPhone was announced O2 has 35,000 initial web inquiries, with the 3G variant they had 200,000 inquiries.
O2 say that Apple is restricting supplies and they may have difficulties satisfying demand.
The iPhone is still considered a consumer phone even with its push email and VPN capabilities, though O2 has announced business tariffs.
RIM's new Blackberry Bold (which seems to be delayed until August) has missed a trick as it could have caused a dent to Apple's launch, especially as it now has the iTunes (iPod) client software built-in.
2008/07/08
telecoms.com
telecoms.com
The EU has backed plans to allow both TDD (Time Division Duplex) and FDD (Frequency Devision Duplex) in the upcoming 2.6GHz spectrum auctions. It will be up to the market to decide what should be used.
WiMAX advocates are happy about this as WiMAX is based on TDD.
The EU decision is supported by CEPT.
Ofocm have been a major supporter of allocating spectrum on a technology neutral basis and allowing the market to decide its use (though ensuring interference issues don't occur).
The EU has backed plans to allow both TDD (Time Division Duplex) and FDD (Frequency Devision Duplex) in the upcoming 2.6GHz spectrum auctions. It will be up to the market to decide what should be used.
WiMAX advocates are happy about this as WiMAX is based on TDD.
The EU decision is supported by CEPT.
Ofocm have been a major supporter of allocating spectrum on a technology neutral basis and allowing the market to decide its use (though ensuring interference issues don't occur).
Market Impact Assessment: new Local Video proposals - Terms of Reference | Ofcom
Market Impact Assessment: new Local Video proposals - Terms of Reference | Ofcom
The BBC is proposing to launch an on demand Local Video Service available over fixed and wireless broadband services. As a public service they are required to undertake a Public Value Test (PVT) before launching such services. The BBC has conducted a Public Value Assessment while Ofcom is conducting a Market Impact Assessment - and as such Ofcom are continuing the consultation until 5pm on August 4th 2008.
The BBC is proposing to launch an on demand Local Video Service available over fixed and wireless broadband services. As a public service they are required to undertake a Public Value Test (PVT) before launching such services. The BBC has conducted a Public Value Assessment while Ofcom is conducting a Market Impact Assessment - and as such Ofcom are continuing the consultation until 5pm on August 4th 2008.
innovation | Digium® - The Asterisk Company
innovation | Digium® - The Asterisk Company:
Digium the company that produces Asterisk have announced their 2nd innovation awards.
The catagories are: -
* Pioneer Award: Most innovative implementation
* Big Biz Asterisk: Largest enterprise class installation
* ROI: Best measurable ROI from implementing Asterisk based solution
* Inside Out Award: Best use of Asterisk in a business outside of telecommunications
Awards will be presented for each category on a global basis.
Asterisk is dual licensed in an open source version and commercial version (Asterisk Business Edition being an example of the closed source version), but enhancements tend to be cross developed. Asterisk is an IP PBX supporting both telephony interfaces (POTS, ISDN, etc) and VoIP protocols (SIP, H.323, etc), however it is much more than that and can be used as an IVR (interactive voice response), there are even speech-to-text engines available for integration.
Digium is also now starting to support SS7 (the protocols telecoms carriers use) natively within the telephony interfaces so Asterisk can be used as a "real" telephony switch.
Digium the company that produces Asterisk have announced their 2nd innovation awards.
The catagories are: -
* Pioneer Award: Most innovative implementation
* Big Biz Asterisk: Largest enterprise class installation
* ROI: Best measurable ROI from implementing Asterisk based solution
* Inside Out Award: Best use of Asterisk in a business outside of telecommunications
Awards will be presented for each category on a global basis.
Asterisk is dual licensed in an open source version and commercial version (Asterisk Business Edition being an example of the closed source version), but enhancements tend to be cross developed. Asterisk is an IP PBX supporting both telephony interfaces (POTS, ISDN, etc) and VoIP protocols (SIP, H.323, etc), however it is much more than that and can be used as an IVR (interactive voice response), there are even speech-to-text engines available for integration.
Digium is also now starting to support SS7 (the protocols telecoms carriers use) natively within the telephony interfaces so Asterisk can be used as a "real" telephony switch.
» iCall App Enables GSM to WiFi / VoIP Switching On The iPhone iPhone Hacks: Downloads, Cracks, Mods, Homebrew, Utilities - Hack & Unlock Apple iPhone
» iCall App Enables GSM to WiFi / VoIP Switching On The iPhone iPhone Hacks: Downloads, Cracks, Mods, Homebrew, Utilities - Hack & Unlock Apple iPhone
iCall are releasing an application that will switch calls between a regular line and VoIP when in range of a WiFi connection. It meets Apple's guidelines as it only uses VoIP when in range of the WiFi network and they only uses Apple's standard SDK (i.e. no hacks involved).
Since iCall are a telephony provider too, they must somehow bounce the call through their network and then switch it to WiFi when a network is detected.
The application will be available through Apples app store.
iCall are releasing an application that will switch calls between a regular line and VoIP when in range of a WiFi connection. It meets Apple's guidelines as it only uses VoIP when in range of the WiFi network and they only uses Apple's standard SDK (i.e. no hacks involved).
Since iCall are a telephony provider too, they must somehow bounce the call through their network and then switch it to WiFi when a network is detected.
The application will be available through Apples app store.
2008/07/02
Computer Weekly Blog Awards
Seems that Euro Tech News has been short listed in the Wireless/Mobile category at Blog Awards.
Unfortunately I'm not really around in the next week, but do vote for me if you can.
Thanks
Steve
Unfortunately I'm not really around in the next week, but do vote for me if you can.
Thanks
Steve
2008/06/30
iTunes / Audible
It's holiday time so it was time to buy an audio book (both for being lazy and traveling around a lot, so reading a real book wont always be possible).
The book was part of a trilogy, so go to iTunes and they have it. Look at the comments and there are several in the vain of "Go to Audible, it's much cheaper".
So off to Audible and lo and behold the trilogy is there for the same price as one book on iTunes.
This is iTunes and Audible in the UK, but that's a huge difference (about 3 times the price on iTunes).
Download from Audible and it all pops into the right locations in iTunes anyway (on a Mac anyway).
Apple are going to have to start pricing things sensibly!!!!
The book was part of a trilogy, so go to iTunes and they have it. Look at the comments and there are several in the vain of "Go to Audible, it's much cheaper".
So off to Audible and lo and behold the trilogy is there for the same price as one book on iTunes.
This is iTunes and Audible in the UK, but that's a huge difference (about 3 times the price on iTunes).
Download from Audible and it all pops into the right locations in iTunes anyway (on a Mac anyway).
Apple are going to have to start pricing things sensibly!!!!
2008/06/25
Symbian to go open source
Nokia is purchasing Symbian (well the bits it doesn't own) for $410. It already owns 48% but other stakeholders include Sony Ericsson, Ericsson, Siemens and Panasonic.
Nokia will set-up the Symbian Foundation which will control the code. Nokia will donate their S60 interface, SonyEricsson UIQ and nttDoCoMo LOAM.
With the threat of other open source Linux variants (Android and LiMo), this is probably a sensible move. How they make money out of this move is another matter, though they may still have a licensing arrangement for support and development services.
Microsoft is the only other major OS vendor with the Windows Mobile OS - will they follow suit?
Nokia will set-up the Symbian Foundation which will control the code. Nokia will donate their S60 interface, SonyEricsson UIQ and nttDoCoMo LOAM.
With the threat of other open source Linux variants (Android and LiMo), this is probably a sensible move. How they make money out of this move is another matter, though they may still have a licensing arrangement for support and development services.
Microsoft is the only other major OS vendor with the Windows Mobile OS - will they follow suit?
2008/06/10
Ebbsfleet Fibre to the Home Pilot | Ofcom
Ebbsfleet Fibre to the Home Pilot | Ofcom
Ebbsfleet is a new housing development in Kent, where BT are planning to implement Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) which will be part of their 21CN Next Generation Network.
Normally BT provides telephony services over copper, but here voice services will be provided over the FTTP system.
BT are regulated as they have significant market power (SMP) - apart from Hull where Kingston have SMP and they have universal service obligations (USO) and basic telephony service pricing is fixed by Ofcom.
For the Ebbsfleet trial BT wish to discount telephony services to 300 homes from August 2008 to December 2009 and have asked Ofcom to allow this.
Ofcom think that this would be a good idea as they wish to encourage FTTP roll-out and services and are therefore holding a consultation which closes on 7 July 2008.
Ebbsfleet is a new housing development in Kent, where BT are planning to implement Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) which will be part of their 21CN Next Generation Network.
Normally BT provides telephony services over copper, but here voice services will be provided over the FTTP system.
BT are regulated as they have significant market power (SMP) - apart from Hull where Kingston have SMP and they have universal service obligations (USO) and basic telephony service pricing is fixed by Ofcom.
For the Ebbsfleet trial BT wish to discount telephony services to 300 homes from August 2008 to December 2009 and have asked Ofcom to allow this.
Ofcom think that this would be a good idea as they wish to encourage FTTP roll-out and services and are therefore holding a consultation which closes on 7 July 2008.
2.6GHz spectrum award update | Ofcom
2.6GHz spectrum award update | Ofcom
Ofcom were planning to offer spectrum in 2.6GHz and 2010MHz in July (2008), but T-Mobile and O2 have legally challenged the validity of the auction (the 2.6GHz spectrum was originally reserved for 3G use).
Ofcom are trying to get the legal challenge expedited as they believe it's in the consumer's and citizen's best belief to make the spectrum available as soon as possible.
Ofcom will make a further statement when they are in a position to do so.
Ofcom were planning to offer spectrum in 2.6GHz and 2010MHz in July (2008), but T-Mobile and O2 have legally challenged the validity of the auction (the 2.6GHz spectrum was originally reserved for 3G use).
Ofcom are trying to get the legal challenge expedited as they believe it's in the consumer's and citizen's best belief to make the spectrum available as soon as possible.
Ofcom will make a further statement when they are in a position to do so.
2008/06/05
Clarity for consumers on broadband speeds | Ofcom
Clarity for consumers on broadband speeds | Ofcom:
Ofcom has published a code of practice for ISPs which they undertake not to mis-sell broadband products based on speed.
Steps that fixed-line ISPs are required to take under the voluntary Code include:
* providing customers at the point of sale with an accurate estimate of the maximum speed that the line can support, whether it is in the shop, over the internet or on the phone
* resolving technical issues to improve speed and offering customers the choice to move onto a lower speed package when estimates given are inaccurate
* ensuring all sales and promotion staff have a proper understanding of the products they are selling so they can explain to their customers the meaning of the estimates provided at the point of sale
* providing consumers with information on usage limits and alerting customers when they have breached them.
The following is a list of ISPs that have already signed-up to the code of practice
The ISPs that have already signed up to the code are:
* AOL Broadband
* Be Broadband
* BT Total Broadband
* Dark Group Ltd
* Eclipse Internet
* Exa Networks
* Fast.co.uk
* Firefly Internet
* Freedom2Surf
* Gravity Internet
* Greenbee Broadband
* Karoo
* MacAce.net
* Madasafish
* Netplan Internet Solutions Ltd
* Nildram
* O2 Business Broadband
* O2 Home Broadband
* Orange Home
* Pipex Homecall
* Pipex Internet
* Playlouder.com
* PlusNet Broadband
* Polestar Interactive Ltd
* Pro-Net Internet Services Ltd
* Sky
* Solutios
* Surf Anytime
* TalkTalk
* TalkTalk Business
* Tiscali
* Toucan
* UK Online
* Virgin Media
* Waitrose Broadband
* YSH
* Zen Internet
This covers 90% of all broadband users.
Ofcom has published a code of practice for ISPs which they undertake not to mis-sell broadband products based on speed.
Steps that fixed-line ISPs are required to take under the voluntary Code include:
* providing customers at the point of sale with an accurate estimate of the maximum speed that the line can support, whether it is in the shop, over the internet or on the phone
* resolving technical issues to improve speed and offering customers the choice to move onto a lower speed package when estimates given are inaccurate
* ensuring all sales and promotion staff have a proper understanding of the products they are selling so they can explain to their customers the meaning of the estimates provided at the point of sale
* providing consumers with information on usage limits and alerting customers when they have breached them.
The following is a list of ISPs that have already signed-up to the code of practice
The ISPs that have already signed up to the code are:
* AOL Broadband
* Be Broadband
* BT Total Broadband
* Dark Group Ltd
* Eclipse Internet
* Exa Networks
* Fast.co.uk
* Firefly Internet
* Freedom2Surf
* Gravity Internet
* Greenbee Broadband
* Karoo
* MacAce.net
* Madasafish
* Netplan Internet Solutions Ltd
* Nildram
* O2 Business Broadband
* O2 Home Broadband
* Orange Home
* Pipex Homecall
* Pipex Internet
* Playlouder.com
* PlusNet Broadband
* Polestar Interactive Ltd
* Pro-Net Internet Services Ltd
* Sky
* Solutios
* Surf Anytime
* TalkTalk
* TalkTalk Business
* Tiscali
* Toucan
* UK Online
* Virgin Media
* Waitrose Broadband
* YSH
* Zen Internet
This covers 90% of all broadband users.
2008/05/30
Android gets ready to take on iPhone
Google showed off it's new Android mobile operating system at their developers do in San Fran.
They showed it running on two phones, one a basic version and one with a touch screen that supported 3G.
It seems to operate in a similar fashion to the iPhone with its "home' button and applications accessible via icons. It can utilise systems like accelerometers to measure the devices position, GPS, etc.
Google demo'ed Google Maps which panes in sections as the users moves from location to location.
Though Android is similar to MacOS X on the iPhone, it's different as Apple does not release any of the iPhone's core OS and applications can only be officially distributed through iTunes. Android in theory is completely open and based on Linux (the OS is officially distributed through the Open Handset Alliance) and the development environment is available to anyone (though winners of the Google applications prize are gaining early access to pre-release betas of the new dev systems).
Android could be a real threat to traditional mobile operating systems (WindowsMobile, Symbian, etc) as there are no license fees to pay. Google will leverage Android to move into the hosted app market (which they want to own) as the mobile apps generally are front-ends on to hosted systems.
There are other threats such as LIMO and OpenMoko but currently these are niche players.
They showed it running on two phones, one a basic version and one with a touch screen that supported 3G.
It seems to operate in a similar fashion to the iPhone with its "home' button and applications accessible via icons. It can utilise systems like accelerometers to measure the devices position, GPS, etc.
Google demo'ed Google Maps which panes in sections as the users moves from location to location.
Though Android is similar to MacOS X on the iPhone, it's different as Apple does not release any of the iPhone's core OS and applications can only be officially distributed through iTunes. Android in theory is completely open and based on Linux (the OS is officially distributed through the Open Handset Alliance) and the development environment is available to anyone (though winners of the Google applications prize are gaining early access to pre-release betas of the new dev systems).
Android could be a real threat to traditional mobile operating systems (WindowsMobile, Symbian, etc) as there are no license fees to pay. Google will leverage Android to move into the hosted app market (which they want to own) as the mobile apps generally are front-ends on to hosted systems.
There are other threats such as LIMO and OpenMoko but currently these are niche players.
Silverjet down the tubes
The business class airline Silverjet that flies from Luton to New York and Dubai has shut its doors, stating it couldn't find further financing.
Other airlines that fly those routes have said they'll try and help out, but it's likel to cost passengers something.
Silverjet is the latest cut-price business airline to go under.
Other airlines that fly those routes have said they'll try and help out, but it's likel to cost passengers something.
Silverjet is the latest cut-price business airline to go under.
A New Pricing Framework for Openreach | Ofcom
A New Pricing Framework for Openreach | Ofcom
BT Openreach is a part of BT Group that offers network level services to other companies.
These include WLR (wholesale line rental), LLU services and Ethernet services.
BT (Openreach) wants to increase the price of various services as they say the cost of providing these services has increased.
BT (and Ofcom) reason that there are now more than 4m unbundled LLU lines and they no longer have SMP (significant market power) in various areas of the country.
Ofcom is holding a consultation about this and will make a final statement later in the year.
BT Openreach is a part of BT Group that offers network level services to other companies.
These include WLR (wholesale line rental), LLU services and Ethernet services.
BT (Openreach) wants to increase the price of various services as they say the cost of providing these services has increased.
BT (and Ofcom) reason that there are now more than 4m unbundled LLU lines and they no longer have SMP (significant market power) in various areas of the country.
Ofcom is holding a consultation about this and will make a final statement later in the year.
2008/05/21
Deregulating the UK’s wholesale broadband markets: 70% of the country to be liberalised | Ofcom
Deregulating the UK’s wholesale broadband markets: 70% of the country to be liberalised | Ofcom
Ofcom is going to lift the obligations on the encumbent operators where there are 4 or broadband operators offering service. In the areas where there isn't sufficient competition, Ofcom will maintain the SMP (significant market power) rules.
This will mean that in 70% of the UK SMP conditions will be lifted, which really means BT.
BT could now increase (wholesale) pricing for broadband in those areas.
Ofcom is going to lift the obligations on the encumbent operators where there are 4 or broadband operators offering service. In the areas where there isn't sufficient competition, Ofcom will maintain the SMP (significant market power) rules.
This will mean that in 70% of the UK SMP conditions will be lifted, which really means BT.
BT could now increase (wholesale) pricing for broadband in those areas.
2008/05/19
Ofcom Website | Notices
Ofcom Website | Notices:
Ofcom announced the winners of the 1452-1492 MHz band (or L-Band).
Though various lots were available (lots LA to LQ) Qualcomm UK Spectrum Ltd won all the lots, so were awarded a single high power licence.
Qualcomm paid £8,334,000 for the license.
Ofcom have released the spectrum as technology neutral and so it's likely Qualcomm will persue their MediaFLO broadcast TV system in the UK (even though the EU has adopted DVB-H).
If Qualcomm can build a broadcast network (which is likely to cost considerably more than the £8m paid for the license) and persuade manufacturers to include MediaFLO in UK handsets and if they can provide content, then they are likely to recoup the investment with IP licensing and content licenses.
Ofcom announced the winners of the 1452-1492 MHz band (or L-Band).
Though various lots were available (lots LA to LQ) Qualcomm UK Spectrum Ltd won all the lots, so were awarded a single high power licence.
Qualcomm paid £8,334,000 for the license.
Ofcom have released the spectrum as technology neutral and so it's likely Qualcomm will persue their MediaFLO broadcast TV system in the UK (even though the EU has adopted DVB-H).
If Qualcomm can build a broadcast network (which is likely to cost considerably more than the £8m paid for the license) and persuade manufacturers to include MediaFLO in UK handsets and if they can provide content, then they are likely to recoup the investment with IP licensing and content licenses.
Vodafone acquires ZYB « ZYB blog
Vodafone acquires ZYB « ZYB blog
Zyb the Danish company that allows users to remotely sync their contacts and calendars has been bought by Vodafone.
They will operate under their Internet Business devision.
If Vodafone integrate Zyb into their standard packages, then Zyb are likely to be the mobile social networking tool of choice.
Zyb the Danish company that allows users to remotely sync their contacts and calendars has been bought by Vodafone.
They will operate under their Internet Business devision.
If Vodafone integrate Zyb into their standard packages, then Zyb are likely to be the mobile social networking tool of choice.
2008/04/29
Decision to modify the National Telephone Numbering Plan to accommodate geographic number demand in the Ebbsfleet region | Ofcom
Decision to modify the National Telephone Numbering Plan to accommodate geographic number demand in the Ebbsfleet region | Ofcom
Ofcom held a consultation on allocating a new number range (01987) to the Ebbsfleet region (there is a large housing development being built).
Ofcom had eight responses and is making the range available immediately.
Ebbsfleet is also of interest as it will be connected to BT's 21CN and have fibre to the home.
Ofcom held a consultation on allocating a new number range (01987) to the Ebbsfleet region (there is a large housing development being built).
Ofcom had eight responses and is making the range available immediately.
Ebbsfleet is also of interest as it will be connected to BT's 21CN and have fibre to the home.
Asterisk Based Visual Call Flow Editor and Server - SafiSystems
Asterisk Based Visual Call Flow Editor and Server - SafiSystems
This is quite a clever concept. Asterisk (the open source PBX) has the capability to run AGI programs (Asterisk Gateway Interface, similar in concept to CGI's in the web world). AGIs are run through a server which can be locally hosted on the Asterisk server or on a completely separate system. There are AGI systems written in Perl/PHP and other languages.
Safi Systems have developed a server and a tool called Safi Workshop which allows AGI programming through visual building blocks, so the first block may be to 'Answer the call' (which equates to Answer in Asterisk terms). Other functions are then pulled from the toolbox and linked together.
The project is then saved and then inserted into the Asterisk dialplan as an AGI statement to the Safi Server.
It's currently in Alpha (it runs on Windows - though it's Java based, so will probably eventually be ported to other platforms) and can be downloaded for free for non-commercial use.
It is really kinda neat as they say.
This is quite a clever concept. Asterisk (the open source PBX) has the capability to run AGI programs (Asterisk Gateway Interface, similar in concept to CGI's in the web world). AGIs are run through a server which can be locally hosted on the Asterisk server or on a completely separate system. There are AGI systems written in Perl/PHP and other languages.
Safi Systems have developed a server and a tool called Safi Workshop which allows AGI programming through visual building blocks, so the first block may be to 'Answer the call' (which equates to Answer in Asterisk terms). Other functions are then pulled from the toolbox and linked together.
The project is then saved and then inserted into the Asterisk dialplan as an AGI statement to the Safi Server.
It's currently in Alpha (it runs on Windows - though it's Java based, so will probably eventually be ported to other platforms) and can be downloaded for free for non-commercial use.
It is really kinda neat as they say.
2008/04/22
ZYB | Help | Press Releases
ZYB | Help | Press Releases
ZYB the company that allows mobile users to upload their phone-books and store them centrally on Zyb's servers today acquired Imity the Danish social networking company.
Zyb has 250,000 users worldwide and has over 15 millions contacts stored for those users.
Imity has 70,000 users but has logged over 430,000 interactions between them, the technology allows Bluetooth enabled phones to discover other Imity users and links back to existing social networking sites like MySpace or blogs.
Imity is not accepting new users, but existing users can continue using the service. When Zyb and Imity are integrated, further users will be able to join. The combination of the two services could make an impact on the social networking scene as everyone has a mobile (pretty much every one of those mobiles will have Bluetooth) and by linking contacts and Bluetooth interaction, there could be some interesting results.
ZYB the company that allows mobile users to upload their phone-books and store them centrally on Zyb's servers today acquired Imity the Danish social networking company.
Zyb has 250,000 users worldwide and has over 15 millions contacts stored for those users.
Imity has 70,000 users but has logged over 430,000 interactions between them, the technology allows Bluetooth enabled phones to discover other Imity users and links back to existing social networking sites like MySpace or blogs.
Imity is not accepting new users, but existing users can continue using the service. When Zyb and Imity are integrated, further users will be able to join. The combination of the two services could make an impact on the social networking scene as everyone has a mobile (pretty much every one of those mobiles will have Bluetooth) and by linking contacts and Bluetooth interaction, there could be some interesting results.
Ofcom Website | Notices
Ofcom Website | Notices
Ofcom today published the companies that have met the criteria to bid the the L-Band (or 1452-1492MHz) spectrum.
The original PDF ishere.
The bidders are: -
Adolphus Limited
Arqiva Limited
ePortal Holding K.S.C.
MLL Telecom Ltd
Qualcomm UK Spectrum Ltd
The Joint Radio Company Limited
Vectone Network Limited
WorldSpace UK Limited
Bids start at £50,000
Ofcom today published the companies that have met the criteria to bid the the L-Band (or 1452-1492MHz) spectrum.
The original PDF is
The bidders are: -
Adolphus Limited
Arqiva Limited
ePortal Holding K.S.C.
MLL Telecom Ltd
Qualcomm UK Spectrum Ltd
The Joint Radio Company Limited
Vectone Network Limited
WorldSpace UK Limited
Bids start at £50,000
2008/04/21
Truphone press office: Truphone raises £16.5m [$32.7M] in Series B round
Truphone press office: Truphone raises £16.5m [$32.7M] in Series B round: "£16.5m ($32.7m) of Series B venture capital funding.
Truphone who have some software on a mobile phone that can switch calls between GSM/3G and WiFi have raised £16.5m ($32.7m) of Series B venture capital funding, the round was led by private investors, with all of Truphone’s existing backers – Burda Digital Ventures, Eden Ventures, Independent News; Media, Straub Ventures and Wellington Partners – also participating;
They have already raised $25m so this makes it over $50m, nice if yiu can get it.
Recently Truphone purchased SIM4travel for cash and stock (about $5m in total) which gives them a GSM core and MVNO assets and may give them better termination rates (in the past Truphone took T-Mobile to court in the UK as they wouldn't route Truphone number blocks, the court decided that T-Mobile must route their calls, but awarded Truphone sub penny termination).
Truphone who have some software on a mobile phone that can switch calls between GSM/3G and WiFi have raised £16.5m ($32.7m) of Series B venture capital funding, the round was led by private investors, with all of Truphone’s existing backers – Burda Digital Ventures, Eden Ventures, Independent News; Media, Straub Ventures and Wellington Partners – also participating;
They have already raised $25m so this makes it over $50m, nice if yiu can get it.
Recently Truphone purchased SIM4travel for cash and stock (about $5m in total) which gives them a GSM core and MVNO assets and may give them better termination rates (in the past Truphone took T-Mobile to court in the UK as they wouldn't route Truphone number blocks, the court decided that T-Mobile must route their calls, but awarded Truphone sub penny termination).
2008/04/17
UK Enum Consortium
UK Enum Consortium
ENUM is a way for people to route calls to telephone numbers. The telephone number owner specifies how they want the calls delivered.
This is a relatively complex system and stores the information in DNS using NAPTR records.
UKEC owns the +44 zone (which it was allocated by the DTI as was).
There will be two main uses for ENUM (as per UKEC) for routing telephone calls and for carriers routing calls.
Nominet are what's called the Tier 1 registry for the +44 zone and will maintain the DNS for it. In future there will be Registrars who actually register numbers into the registry. There will also be Number Authorities who verify that numbers are owned by who they say they are. Much of how this all works still needs to be decided.
Recently elections for the board of directors took place and the following people were elected: -
James Blessing
Peter Gradwell
Steve Kennedy (me)
Denesh Bhabuta
ENUM will play a significant part in the future of telephony, especially as BT role-out their 21CN.
DNS will also be significantly impacted as in future every telephone call will require an ENUM look-up (though companies/telcos will be able to purchase local caches).
UKEC is looking for members and shortly a PAB (policy advisory board).
ENUM is a way for people to route calls to telephone numbers. The telephone number owner specifies how they want the calls delivered.
This is a relatively complex system and stores the information in DNS using NAPTR records.
UKEC owns the +44 zone (which it was allocated by the DTI as was).
There will be two main uses for ENUM (as per UKEC) for routing telephone calls and for carriers routing calls.
Nominet are what's called the Tier 1 registry for the +44 zone and will maintain the DNS for it. In future there will be Registrars who actually register numbers into the registry. There will also be Number Authorities who verify that numbers are owned by who they say they are. Much of how this all works still needs to be decided.
Recently elections for the board of directors took place and the following people were elected: -
James Blessing
Peter Gradwell
Steve Kennedy (me)
Denesh Bhabuta
ENUM will play a significant part in the future of telephony, especially as BT role-out their 21CN.
DNS will also be significantly impacted as in future every telephone call will require an ENUM look-up (though companies/telcos will be able to purchase local caches).
UKEC is looking for members and shortly a PAB (policy advisory board).
fring auto-roaming delivers mobile internet convergence
fring auto-roaming delivers mobile internet convergence
Fring is an application that supports VoIP (SIP) and various instant messaging protocols (Skype®, MSN® Messenger, Google Talk™, ICQ, SIP, Twitter, Yahoo!™ and AIM®).
It can then put all your voice traffic over a data connection (or WiFi if available).
They've now made an iPhone application that works on the iPhone - the only trouble is it needs to be a "hacked" version i.e. one that has the 'Install' application on it which can download other applications (so going out and buying a vanilla iPhone wont work).
When Apple officially launch firmware v2 (June), it's expected Fring will launch an official application as Apple say they will support VoIP as long as it's over WiFi.
Fring is an application that supports VoIP (SIP) and various instant messaging protocols (Skype®, MSN® Messenger, Google Talk™, ICQ, SIP, Twitter, Yahoo!™ and AIM®).
It can then put all your voice traffic over a data connection (or WiFi if available).
They've now made an iPhone application that works on the iPhone - the only trouble is it needs to be a "hacked" version i.e. one that has the 'Install' application on it which can download other applications (so going out and buying a vanilla iPhone wont work).
When Apple officially launch firmware v2 (June), it's expected Fring will launch an official application as Apple say they will support VoIP as long as it's over WiFi.
ZYB | Bring mobile data to life
ZYB | Bring mobile data to life
Well they had to call it something ...
Zyb is a service that allows you to remotely save your contacts/diary/notes/other data from your mobile phone. Of course it's more than that and is also a social networking site as it will look for contacts from your phone and compare them to other users on the site and make guess on who you should connect to.
There are other services with some of functionality (O2 have recently launched Bluebook), but Zyb is operator independent and though allows centralised back-up features, the social networking side is probably what's going to attract users.
They are licensing the technology to operators (who can bundle it with their service, probably white-labeled), but you can expect targeted advertising to appear soon.
You can post "shouts" either through the website or by texting shout plus the message to a Zyb number and it goes to all your connections.
There's so many social networking sites around, Zyb will have to fight hard to get in the game, but even just using the back-up features are useful enough.
Well they had to call it something ...
Zyb is a service that allows you to remotely save your contacts/diary/notes/other data from your mobile phone. Of course it's more than that and is also a social networking site as it will look for contacts from your phone and compare them to other users on the site and make guess on who you should connect to.
There are other services with some of functionality (O2 have recently launched Bluebook), but Zyb is operator independent and though allows centralised back-up features, the social networking side is probably what's going to attract users.
They are licensing the technology to operators (who can bundle it with their service, probably white-labeled), but you can expect targeted advertising to appear soon.
You can post "shouts" either through the website or by texting shout plus the message to a Zyb number and it goes to all your connections.
There's so many social networking sites around, Zyb will have to fight hard to get in the game, but even just using the back-up features are useful enough.
Availability of Telephone Numbers | Ofcom
Availability of Telephone Numbers | Ofcom:
Ofcom are seeing increased demand for geographic numbers and in accordance with the numbering plan need to conserve numbers in certain areas.
Therefore Ofcom are proposing to add 96 geographic area codes, in addition to the 169 areas that already have conservation status.
In these areas numbers are allocated in blocks of 1,000 rather than the traditional 10,000 number blocks.
The consultations closes at 5pm on 19 May 2008.
Ofcom are seeing increased demand for geographic numbers and in accordance with the numbering plan need to conserve numbers in certain areas.
Therefore Ofcom are proposing to add 96 geographic area codes, in addition to the 169 areas that already have conservation status.
In these areas numbers are allocated in blocks of 1,000 rather than the traditional 10,000 number blocks.
The consultations closes at 5pm on 19 May 2008.
Ofcom Website | Notices
Ofcom Website | Notices
The following will be allowed to bid for licenses in 1452-1492 MHz (L Band).
Adolphus Limited
Arqiva Limited
ePortal Holding K.S.C.
MLL Telecom Ltd
O2 (UK) Limited
Qualcomm UK Spectrum Ltd
The Joint Radio Company Limited
Vectone Network Limited
WorldSpace UK Limited
Some usual suspects and some notably unusual ones. Bidding starts at £50,000.00
The following will be allowed to bid for licenses in 1452-1492 MHz (L Band).
Adolphus Limited
Arqiva Limited
ePortal Holding K.S.C.
MLL Telecom Ltd
O2 (UK) Limited
Qualcomm UK Spectrum Ltd
The Joint Radio Company Limited
Vectone Network Limited
WorldSpace UK Limited
Some usual suspects and some notably unusual ones. Bidding starts at £50,000.00
Tap into experiences with the Nokia 6212 classic - FierceWireless - Wireless Industry, Wireless Technology News, Wireless Security News
Tap into experiences with the Nokia 6212 classic - FierceWireless - Wireless Industry, Wireless Technology News, Wireless Security News
Nokia yesterday introduced the Nokia 6212 3G phone which incorporates Near Field Communications (NFC).
This is expected to be available in EU and Asian markets later in the summer for around Euros 200.
NFC allows payments and other transactions to be carried out (something like a mobile Oyster card) by tapping the phone on to an NFC reader. It can also link to credit card information on the phone for NFC credit card payment systems.
Photos, weblinks, etc can also be transferred between devices and Nokia have a NFC headset.
In the UK Oyster is becoming widespread and Barclaycard have a combined Oyster/CreditCard, integration with phones is the next step.
Nokia yesterday introduced the Nokia 6212 3G phone which incorporates Near Field Communications (NFC).
This is expected to be available in EU and Asian markets later in the summer for around Euros 200.
NFC allows payments and other transactions to be carried out (something like a mobile Oyster card) by tapping the phone on to an NFC reader. It can also link to credit card information on the phone for NFC credit card payment systems.
Photos, weblinks, etc can also be transferred between devices and Nokia have a NFC headset.
In the UK Oyster is becoming widespread and Barclaycard have a combined Oyster/CreditCard, integration with phones is the next step.
General Information | Ofcom
General Information | Ofcom
Ofcom have released an information update on Band III. PDF file.
Ofcom unilaterally allocated some of the band for private mobile radio use and made agreements with neigbouring countries where interference may occur (the band was the old 405 black and white TV band).
Now there has been an RCC conference - which has kept the band for TV use, some users will have to move to other bands or cease operations.
This document clarifies those moves etc.
Ofcom have released an information update on Band III. PDF file.
Ofcom unilaterally allocated some of the band for private mobile radio use and made agreements with neigbouring countries where interference may occur (the band was the old 405 black and white TV band).
Now there has been an RCC conference - which has kept the band for TV use, some users will have to move to other bands or cease operations.
This document clarifies those moves etc.
2008/04/04
Notice of Ofcom’s proposal to make regulations in connection with the award of 2500-2690 MHz and 2010-2025 MHz | Ofcom
Notice of Ofcom’s proposal to make regulations in connection with the award of 2500-2690 MHz and 2010-2025 MHz | Ofcom
Ofcom has published its proposals for the licensing of the 2.5/2.6GHz and 2GHz bands. It is now holding a consultation for interested parties to respond by 06/05/08.
These bands represent a huge chunk of spectrum (over 190MHz) which is more than all the 3G operators attained in the 3G auctions. Though big players are expected to get involved (existing 3G operators, new entrants, BT etc) and pricing may well reach high millions, they're not expected to reach the highs of the 3G auction (£21bn).
Ofcom has published its proposals for the licensing of the 2.5/2.6GHz and 2GHz bands. It is now holding a consultation for interested parties to respond by 06/05/08.
These bands represent a huge chunk of spectrum (over 190MHz) which is more than all the 3G operators attained in the 3G auctions. Though big players are expected to get involved (existing 3G operators, new entrants, BT etc) and pricing may well reach high millions, they're not expected to reach the highs of the 3G auction (£21bn).
2008/04/02
Are you an 'Alpha Socialiser'' or an 'Attention Seeker'? ... Ofcom research identifies social networking profiles | Ofcom
Are you an 'Alpha Socialiser'' or an 'Attention Seeker'? ... Ofcom research identifies social networking profiles | Ofcom
Ofcom has published a report into social networking in the UK.
49% of 8-17 year olds have a social networking site presence but 22% of adults also have a presence.
Ofcom have put users into 5 groups
* Alpha Socialisers – mostly male, under 25s, who use sites in intense short bursts to flirt, meet new people and be entertained.
* Attention Seekers – mostly female, who crave attention and comments from others, often by posting photos and customising their profiles.
* Followers – males and females of all ages who join sites to keep up with what their peers are doing.
* Faithfuls – older males and females generally aged over 20, who typically use social networking sites to rekindle old friendships, often from school or university.
* Functionals – mostly older males who tend to be single-minded in using sites for a particular purpose.
There are also 3 groups of people who don't use social networking
* Concerned about safety – often older people and parents concerned about safety online, in particular making personal details available online.
* Technically inexperienced – often people over 30 years old who lack confidence in using the internet and computers.
* Intellectual rejecters – often older teens and young adults who have no interest in social networking sites and see them as a waste of time.
Also
* 41 per cent of children and 44 per cent of adults leave their privacy settings as default 'open' which means that their profiles are visible to anyone;
* 34 per cent of 16-24 year olds are willing to give out sensitive personal information such as their phone number or email address (Get Safe Online Research); and
* 17 per cent of adult users said that they talked to people on social networking sites that they didn't know and 35 per cent spoke to people who were 'friends of friends'.
Facebook is th emost popular site followed by MySpace then Bebo, but Bebo was most popular for users between 8-17.
There seems to have been a lot of media hype following the report.
Ofcom has published a report into social networking in the UK.
49% of 8-17 year olds have a social networking site presence but 22% of adults also have a presence.
Ofcom have put users into 5 groups
* Alpha Socialisers – mostly male, under 25s, who use sites in intense short bursts to flirt, meet new people and be entertained.
* Attention Seekers – mostly female, who crave attention and comments from others, often by posting photos and customising their profiles.
* Followers – males and females of all ages who join sites to keep up with what their peers are doing.
* Faithfuls – older males and females generally aged over 20, who typically use social networking sites to rekindle old friendships, often from school or university.
* Functionals – mostly older males who tend to be single-minded in using sites for a particular purpose.
There are also 3 groups of people who don't use social networking
* Concerned about safety – often older people and parents concerned about safety online, in particular making personal details available online.
* Technically inexperienced – often people over 30 years old who lack confidence in using the internet and computers.
* Intellectual rejecters – often older teens and young adults who have no interest in social networking sites and see them as a waste of time.
Also
* 41 per cent of children and 44 per cent of adults leave their privacy settings as default 'open' which means that their profiles are visible to anyone;
* 34 per cent of 16-24 year olds are willing to give out sensitive personal information such as their phone number or email address (Get Safe Online Research); and
* 17 per cent of adult users said that they talked to people on social networking sites that they didn't know and 35 per cent spoke to people who were 'friends of friends'.
Facebook is th emost popular site followed by MySpace then Bebo, but Bebo was most popular for users between 8-17.
There seems to have been a lot of media hype following the report.
Ofcom's Tariff Table 2008/9 | Ofcom
Ofcom's Tariff Table 2008/9 | Ofcom
Ofcom has published its funding plans for FY 2008. Ofcom’s budget will be £133.7m, which on a like for like basis for FY 2007/2008 is a decrease of 1.5%.
There will be an average decrease of (6.3%) for the radio sector, an average decrease of (2.4%) for the television sector and an average increase of 4.1% for network and services operators.
Ofcom paid off their original government set-up loan last year.
Ofcom has published its funding plans for FY 2008. Ofcom’s budget will be £133.7m, which on a like for like basis for FY 2007/2008 is a decrease of 1.5%.
There will be an average decrease of (6.3%) for the radio sector, an average decrease of (2.4%) for the television sector and an average increase of 4.1% for network and services operators.
Ofcom paid off their original government set-up loan last year.
2008/03/26
LONAP
LONAP: Fees
LONAP celebrated their 10th birthday in the Old Bank of England pub last night.
LONAP or the London Access Point are an Internet Exchange where members pay £500 per quarter for up to 2Gb Ethernet connections. As a neutral exchange each member can peer with other members at the exchange (arranged individually).
Members can purchase further (dual) Ethernet connections for £500 per quarter.
Current members are: -
AboveNet
aeXiomus
Akamai International B.V.
APM Internet Ltd.
Associated Networks / ANLX
Avensys Networks Ltd
BBC (Siemens Business Services)
BBC R+D Multicast
Belgacom ICS
Bogons
Bytemark Hosting
Catalyst2 Services Ltd.
clanserver4u GmbH
ClearIP
Community Internet / CI-Net
Comtec Enterprises Ltd.
CSI Ltd
Eaton Kaye Ltd.
Ebuyer UK Ltd.
Entanet
Europacom.net Ltd.
FastNet International
Fidonet
Gamma Telecom Ltd.
Global-MIX Ltd
Goscomb Technologies
Gradwell dot com Ltd
Griffin Internet
Hotchilli Internet Solutions
Hurricane Electric
IDnet
Internet Technology Products Ltd.
ISC - f.root-servers.net
Jump Networks Ltd
Ke-Connect Systems Ltd.
Kewlio.net Ltd.
Kingston Communications
KPN International
Limelight Networks
Localphone Limited
Loud-n-clear
Mailbox Internet
Merula Ltd
Mistral Internet
murphx Innovative Solutions Limited
Namesco Limited
Neotelecoms
Netcetera
NetConnex
Nominet
Onyx Internet
Opal Business Solutions Ltd. (Centrica/ Rednet)
Open Hosting
OpenPeers Ltd.
OrbitalNet
Pipex
PlusNet
Powernet
PRT Systems
Public Internet Ltd.
RapidSwitch Ltd
Reactive Networks
Redstone Communications
Simwood eSMS Limited
Stripe 21 Ltd.
Switch IP Ltd.
System Online Ltd
TelecityGroup UK Ltd
Thus / Business Serve Plc
UK Grid
Viatel
Virgin Radio
Wave Rider / OpenSense Ltd
Web Tapestry
Zen Internet
Starting off small, LONAP have grown to almost 80 members, some of whom are big players - most of the other smaller Internet exchanges are no longer in existence. They're not quite LINX (London INternet eXchnage), but are still growing and there's around 4.5Gb/s of traffic transferred.
LONAP celebrated their 10th birthday in the Old Bank of England pub last night.
LONAP or the London Access Point are an Internet Exchange where members pay £500 per quarter for up to 2Gb Ethernet connections. As a neutral exchange each member can peer with other members at the exchange (arranged individually).
Members can purchase further (dual) Ethernet connections for £500 per quarter.
Current members are: -
AboveNet
aeXiomus
Akamai International B.V.
APM Internet Ltd.
Associated Networks / ANLX
Avensys Networks Ltd
BBC (Siemens Business Services)
BBC R+D Multicast
Belgacom ICS
Bogons
Bytemark Hosting
Catalyst2 Services Ltd.
clanserver4u GmbH
ClearIP
Community Internet / CI-Net
Comtec Enterprises Ltd.
CSI Ltd
Eaton Kaye Ltd.
Ebuyer UK Ltd.
Entanet
Europacom.net Ltd.
FastNet International
Fidonet
Gamma Telecom Ltd.
Global-MIX Ltd
Goscomb Technologies
Gradwell dot com Ltd
Griffin Internet
Hotchilli Internet Solutions
Hurricane Electric
IDnet
Internet Technology Products Ltd.
ISC - f.root-servers.net
Jump Networks Ltd
Ke-Connect Systems Ltd.
Kewlio.net Ltd.
Kingston Communications
KPN International
Limelight Networks
Localphone Limited
Loud-n-clear
Mailbox Internet
Merula Ltd
Mistral Internet
murphx Innovative Solutions Limited
Namesco Limited
Neotelecoms
Netcetera
NetConnex
Nominet
Onyx Internet
Opal Business Solutions Ltd. (Centrica/ Rednet)
Open Hosting
OpenPeers Ltd.
OrbitalNet
Pipex
PlusNet
Powernet
PRT Systems
Public Internet Ltd.
RapidSwitch Ltd
Reactive Networks
Redstone Communications
Simwood eSMS Limited
Stripe 21 Ltd.
Switch IP Ltd.
System Online Ltd
TelecityGroup UK Ltd
Thus / Business Serve Plc
UK Grid
Viatel
Virgin Radio
Wave Rider / OpenSense Ltd
Web Tapestry
Zen Internet
Starting off small, LONAP have grown to almost 80 members, some of whom are big players - most of the other smaller Internet exchanges are no longer in existence. They're not quite LINX (London INternet eXchnage), but are still growing and there's around 4.5Gb/s of traffic transferred.
Proposals to apply the Electronic Communications Code | Ofcom
Proposals to apply the Electronic Communications Code | Ofcom
Mapesbury Communications have been awarded powers under the Electronics Communications Code from Ofcom today.
This allows them to lay infrastructure without the permission of landowners etc.
As one of the winners of a low power GSM Guard band license this should enable them to build infrastructure which would otherwise have proven difficult or impossible.
MCOM (UK01) could prove to be a disruptive player in the mobile space.
Mapesbury Communications have been awarded powers under the Electronics Communications Code from Ofcom today.
This allows them to lay infrastructure without the permission of landowners etc.
As one of the winners of a low power GSM Guard band license this should enable them to build infrastructure which would otherwise have proven difficult or impossible.
MCOM (UK01) could prove to be a disruptive player in the mobile space.
Mobile Communications on board Aircraft (MCA) | Ofcom
Mobile Communications on board Aircraft (MCA) | Ofcom
Ofcom are allowing airline operators to offer mobile communications on aeroplanes (known as Mobile Communications on Aircraft or MCA).
MCA will fall under a licensed regime (under the Wireless Telegraphy Act), though licenses will be issued on request under existing license variations - with no fees payable.
This will fall under a common European regime for European registered aircraft, it is hoped that this can be extended worldwide.
Ofcom are allowing airline operators to offer mobile communications on aeroplanes (known as Mobile Communications on Aircraft or MCA).
MCA will fall under a licensed regime (under the Wireless Telegraphy Act), though licenses will be issued on request under existing license variations - with no fees payable.
This will fall under a common European regime for European registered aircraft, it is hoped that this can be extended worldwide.
2008/03/03
'Sitefinder' Mobile Phone Base Station Database
'Sitefinder' Mobile Phone Base Station Database
Ofcom has confirmed today that the Sitefinder database has updated information in the database.
Sitefinder is provided by Ofcom and holds information on cell sites, who operates them, what power they transmit at (and the max allowable) and what frequencies.
The operators refresh the data on a quarterly basis.
Currently updates are occuring from O2, Orange, Vodafone, 3, but not T-Mobile. There is also data from Tetra (Police radio).
Sitefinder is a useful resource but the operators have complained that making too much information available is giving away competitive info.
Ofcom has confirmed today that the Sitefinder database has updated information in the database.
Sitefinder is provided by Ofcom and holds information on cell sites, who operates them, what power they transmit at (and the max allowable) and what frequencies.
The operators refresh the data on a quarterly basis.
Currently updates are occuring from O2, Orange, Vodafone, 3, but not T-Mobile. There is also data from Tetra (Police radio).
Sitefinder is a useful resource but the operators have complained that making too much information available is giving away competitive info.
'Sitefinder' Mobile Phone Base Station Database
'Sitefinder' Mobile Phone Base Station Database
Ofcom has confirmed today that the Sitefinder database has updated information in the database.
Sitefinder is provided by Ofcom and holds information on cell sites, who operates them, what power they transmit at (and the max allowable) and what frequencies.
The operators refresh the data on a quarterly basis.
Currently updates are occuring from O2, Orange, Vodafone, 3, but not T-Mobile. There is also data from Tetra (Police radio).
Sitefinder is a useful resource but the operators have complained that making too much information available is giving away competitive info.
Ofcom has confirmed today that the Sitefinder database has updated information in the database.
Sitefinder is provided by Ofcom and holds information on cell sites, who operates them, what power they transmit at (and the max allowable) and what frequencies.
The operators refresh the data on a quarterly basis.
Currently updates are occuring from O2, Orange, Vodafone, 3, but not T-Mobile. There is also data from Tetra (Police radio).
Sitefinder is a useful resource but the operators have complained that making too much information available is giving away competitive info.
2008/02/25
Prosecution Statistics 2006/07 | Ofcom
Prosecution Statistics 2006/07 | Ofcom
Ofcom published details on the number of prosecutions and warning letters issued in the Financial Year 2006/7
There were 61 illegal broadcaster (i.e. pirate radio) prosecutions (and convictions), also 31 warning letters sent.
Citizen Band (CB) 1 prosecution (and conviction).
EMC (electromagnetic interference 1 prosecution/conviction and 1 warning.
RTTE (CE equipment - non compliance) 5 prosecutions/convictions and 22 warnings.
Others (Costal Radio) - 1 conviction/prosecution for a hoax call and 7 warnings.
So really a small part of Ofcom's work.
Ofcom published details on the number of prosecutions and warning letters issued in the Financial Year 2006/7
There were 61 illegal broadcaster (i.e. pirate radio) prosecutions (and convictions), also 31 warning letters sent.
Citizen Band (CB) 1 prosecution (and conviction).
EMC (electromagnetic interference 1 prosecution/conviction and 1 warning.
RTTE (CE equipment - non compliance) 5 prosecutions/convictions and 22 warnings.
Others (Costal Radio) - 1 conviction/prosecution for a hoax call and 7 warnings.
So really a small part of Ofcom's work.
2008/02/20
Virtual Hosting Blog » Wide Open VoIP: Top 50 Open Source VoIP Apps
Virtual Hosting Blog » Wide Open VoIP: Top 50 Open Source VoIP Apps
Quite a useful page for Open Source VoIP bits
Quite a useful page for Open Source VoIP bits
2008/02/07
Mobile Sector Assessment | Ofcom
Mobile Sector Assessment | Ofcom
Ofcom are holding an assessment on the mobile sector, this covers both mobile telephony and general wireless services.
Ofcom's have stated what they plan to assess, but welcome comments on their approach, preferrably by 31st March 2008.
Ofcom are holding an assessment on the mobile sector, this covers both mobile telephony and general wireless services.
Ofcom's have stated what they plan to assess, but welcome comments on their approach, preferrably by 31st March 2008.
Television Transmitter Location Maps | Ofcom
Television Transmitter Location Maps | Ofcom
Ofcom have published maps of the transmitters and coverage areas sand when they are going to be switched over to digitial. The maps are for guidance so that industry and viewers will know when switch-over will occur in their area.
The maps are available for: -
Anglia
Border
Central
Channel Islands
Granada
London
Meridian
South Wales
STV Central
STV North
Tyne Tees
Northern Ireland
Wales
West
Westcountry
Yorkshire
Ofcom have published maps of the transmitters and coverage areas sand when they are going to be switched over to digitial. The maps are for guidance so that industry and viewers will know when switch-over will occur in their area.
The maps are available for: -
Anglia
Border
Central
Channel Islands
Granada
London
Meridian
South Wales
STV Central
STV North
Tyne Tees
Northern Ireland
Wales
West
Westcountry
Yorkshire
2008/01/31
Notification under Section 107(6) of the Communications Act 2003 - Mapesbury Communications Limited | Ofcom
Notification under Section 107(6) of the Communications Act 2003 - Mapesbury Communications Limited | Ofcom
Mapesbury Communications or MCOM have applied for "Code Powers". If granted this will give them the rights to digs roads, erect masts etc.
MCOM were awarded a low power GSM license ("Guard Band") and are launching services under the UK01 brand.
Code powers should allow them to construct a GSM network and offer competing services with the current big 5 MNOs.
Mapesbury Communications or MCOM have applied for "Code Powers". If granted this will give them the rights to digs roads, erect masts etc.
MCOM were awarded a low power GSM license ("Guard Band") and are launching services under the UK01 brand.
Code powers should allow them to construct a GSM network and offer competing services with the current big 5 MNOs.
2008/01/28
10, 28, 32 and 40 GHz award
The following applications have met the requirements to bid for spectrum in the 10, 28, 32 and 40 GHz bands: -
Arqiva Limited;
British Telecommunications Plc;
Digiweb Ltd;
Faultbasic Ltd;
MLL Telecom Ltd;
Orange Personal Communications Services Limited;
Red-M Services Limited;
T-Mobile (UK) Ltd;
Transfinite Systems Ltd and
UK Broadband Ltd
They still have until January 30th 2008 to pull out if they wish.
More details at Ofcom
Arqiva Limited;
British Telecommunications Plc;
Digiweb Ltd;
Faultbasic Ltd;
MLL Telecom Ltd;
Orange Personal Communications Services Limited;
Red-M Services Limited;
T-Mobile (UK) Ltd;
Transfinite Systems Ltd and
UK Broadband Ltd
They still have until January 30th 2008 to pull out if they wish.
More details at Ofcom
2008/01/15
bit-tech.net | Homebrew WiFi-to-3G router
bit-tech.net | Homebrew WiFi-to-3G router
If you need to connect your laptop to the Interweb and only have a Windows Mobile 6 device (it may work with WM5) with 3G you can use Bluetooth or serial (in some circumstances).
Now there's a program that uses WiFi on the WM device that turns it into a router i.e. WiFi to 3G and devices can then connect to the WiFi and access the Internet.
Ensure that the 3G services is on a unlimited data plan or else the bills may be quite large.
The software is available from here.
If you need to connect your laptop to the Interweb and only have a Windows Mobile 6 device (it may work with WM5) with 3G you can use Bluetooth or serial (in some circumstances).
Now there's a program that uses WiFi on the WM device that turns it into a router i.e. WiFi to 3G and devices can then connect to the WiFi and access the Internet.
Ensure that the 3G services is on a unlimited data plan or else the bills may be quite large.
The software is available from here.
2008/01/10
What's new at MacExpo Jan 15th
What are Apple going to announce at MacExpo?
* New Cinema displays? Probably in-line with the new iMacs with glass screeens.
* MacBookUltra? Seems on the cards, an ultra portable MacBookPro which touch sensitive screen, gesture/handwriting support/etc. Probably solid-state disk for fast boot-up. MacOS X has already been ported to small devices, this could extend that so as well as using technologies such as Quickview to read documents on the go, they can be edited too.
* UltraDock? A docking system for the MacBookUltra that turns it into an iMac for use in the office etc.
* 3G iPhone? It's been on the cards ever since Apple launched the original version. Supporting HSPA it will also have push-email allowing corporate users to ween off their Blackberries.
* iTunes 7.6? Well it turns out that some DVDs have already been released that have versions of the film in WMV (Windows Media Video) and H.264 (the format the iPod uses). Insert this into a Mac and a dialog pops up saying "iTunes 7.6 required". iTunes is also likely to support downloading/renting videos from the iTunes store.
It's all rumour of curse, but the keynote is on Jan 15th about 5pm UK time.
* New Cinema displays? Probably in-line with the new iMacs with glass screeens.
* MacBookUltra? Seems on the cards, an ultra portable MacBookPro which touch sensitive screen, gesture/handwriting support/etc. Probably solid-state disk for fast boot-up. MacOS X has already been ported to small devices, this could extend that so as well as using technologies such as Quickview to read documents on the go, they can be edited too.
* UltraDock? A docking system for the MacBookUltra that turns it into an iMac for use in the office etc.
* 3G iPhone? It's been on the cards ever since Apple launched the original version. Supporting HSPA it will also have push-email allowing corporate users to ween off their Blackberries.
* iTunes 7.6? Well it turns out that some DVDs have already been released that have versions of the film in WMV (Windows Media Video) and H.264 (the format the iPod uses). Insert this into a Mac and a dialog pops up saying "iTunes 7.6 required". iTunes is also likely to support downloading/renting videos from the iTunes store.
It's all rumour of curse, but the keynote is on Jan 15th about 5pm UK time.
BT bets its future on broadband 20 times faster than now | Technology | The Guardian
BT bets its future on broadband 20 times faster than now | Technology | The Guardian
BT is to fibre 10,000 homes as part of a trial in Ebbsfleet next August. The system will support speeds of 100Mb/s (though this could probably be increased). It's a new build area so fibre will be part of the build-process and used instead of traditional copper telephony, presumably directly into BT's 21CN.
The service will be put in by BT Openreach meaning it will be available to other ISPs and media players as well as BT.
Though copper is currently the norm, fibre for all new-builds should be thought about. Unfortunately this doesn't cover existing infrastructure so current homes will be stuck with DSL services for a while. It's been estimated to replace the current copper would cost around £10bn and if BT did it, it would lead them into a regulatory nightmare.
BT is to fibre 10,000 homes as part of a trial in Ebbsfleet next August. The system will support speeds of 100Mb/s (though this could probably be increased). It's a new build area so fibre will be part of the build-process and used instead of traditional copper telephony, presumably directly into BT's 21CN.
The service will be put in by BT Openreach meaning it will be available to other ISPs and media players as well as BT.
Though copper is currently the norm, fibre for all new-builds should be thought about. Unfortunately this doesn't cover existing infrastructure so current homes will be stuck with DSL services for a while. It's been estimated to replace the current copper would cost around £10bn and if BT did it, it would lead them into a regulatory nightmare.
Apple released new Quad Core MacPros
Ahead of next week's MacExpo in SanFran Apple have updated their MacPros with new Quad Core CPUs. Each machine can take 2 processors (so that's 8 cores), 4 hard disks (SATA or SAS), 1 or 2 16x SuperDrives, an Airport (WiFi 802.11n) and a SAS RAID controller.
The stock video card is an NVIDIA 8800, but this can be downgraded to an ATI card. However the system can now hold 4 of the ATI cards allowing a MacPro to drive 4 cinema displays simultaneously. The top of the range card is an NVidia FX4600.
If buying one, wait until Apple announces their new Cinema displays which should be at MacExpo.
The stock video card is an NVIDIA 8800, but this can be downgraded to an ATI card. However the system can now hold 4 of the ATI cards allowing a MacPro to drive 4 cinema displays simultaneously. The top of the range card is an NVidia FX4600.
If buying one, wait until Apple announces their new Cinema displays which should be at MacExpo.
telecoms.com
telecoms.com
It had to happen and now T-Mobile is offering unlimited WiFi with it's Web'n'Walk Plus and Max for £12.50 per month. Users can use any of T-Mobile's HotSpots at Starbucks, Texaco service stations and other locations.
O2 have already bundled free WiFi into their iPhone plans using The Cloud's WiFi network and BT bundle WiFi with their Internet access products.
WiFi isn't particularly good for large widescale networks, but is cheap for high speed data access compared to 3G, so it should save T-Mobile money in the long run.
It had to happen and now T-Mobile is offering unlimited WiFi with it's Web'n'Walk Plus and Max for £12.50 per month. Users can use any of T-Mobile's HotSpots at Starbucks, Texaco service stations and other locations.
O2 have already bundled free WiFi into their iPhone plans using The Cloud's WiFi network and BT bundle WiFi with their Internet access products.
WiFi isn't particularly good for large widescale networks, but is cheap for high speed data access compared to 3G, so it should save T-Mobile money in the long run.
2007/12/17
Removal of the requirement for pre-call announcements on 070 numbers | Ofcom
Removal of the requirement for pre-call announcements on 070 numbers | Ofcom
In a similar move to 087 numbers, Ofcom have just removed the requirement for operators of 070 personal number to have pre-call announcements (PCA) if the call rate is above 20p per minute.
Ofcom removed the limitation as alarm and other services use 070 numbers and the PCA caused some to time-out, which may endanger human life.
070 numbers are notoriously used for scams such as dialing mobile phones and dropping the call instataneously as users confuse the missed call with a mobile number (all mobile numbers start 07), so Ofcom are still considering moving personal numbers off the 070 range.
Controlled Premium Rate Services (“CPRS”) made on 070 numbers rather than 09 are still subject to PRS regulations and PhonepayPlus will take action on abusers of 070 services (above 10ppm charging).
In a similar move to 087 numbers, Ofcom have just removed the requirement for operators of 070 personal number to have pre-call announcements (PCA) if the call rate is above 20p per minute.
Ofcom removed the limitation as alarm and other services use 070 numbers and the PCA caused some to time-out, which may endanger human life.
070 numbers are notoriously used for scams such as dialing mobile phones and dropping the call instataneously as users confuse the missed call with a mobile number (all mobile numbers start 07), so Ofcom are still considering moving personal numbers off the 070 range.
Controlled Premium Rate Services (“CPRS”) made on 070 numbers rather than 09 are still subject to PRS regulations and PhonepayPlus will take action on abusers of 070 services (above 10ppm charging).
2007/12/06
Regulation of VoIP Services: Access to the Emergency Services | Ofcom
Regulation of VoIP Services: Access to the Emergency Services | Ofcom
By September 2008 anyone providing VoIP services will need to provide access to the Emergency Services (in the UK 999 or 112). Previously only PATS (public access telephony services) were obliged to provide 999 services, now any PECS (public electronics cummincations system) provider will need to provide access to 999.
The only exemption is web-based "click to call" services as they can be seen as distinct and they do not have to provide access.
By September 2008 anyone providing VoIP services will need to provide access to the Emergency Services (in the UK 999 or 112). Previously only PATS (public access telephony services) were obliged to provide 999 services, now any PECS (public electronics cummincations system) provider will need to provide access to 999.
The only exemption is web-based "click to call" services as they can be seen as distinct and they do not have to provide access.
Licence-Exemption Framework Review | Ofcom
Licence-Exemption Framework Review | Ofcom
Ofcom has published a statement on the framework for managing spectrum used by licence-exempt devices.
This is a long document and is based on results of Ofcom's previous Spectrum Framework Review.
Much of it is to do with whether it's possible to regulate at all (like in the 2.4GHz band) and how other areas should be managed.
It also covers things like UWB which will become prevalent in the future.
Ofcom has published a statement on the framework for managing spectrum used by licence-exempt devices.
This is a long document and is based on results of Ofcom's previous Spectrum Framework Review.
Much of it is to do with whether it's possible to regulate at all (like in the 2.4GHz band) and how other areas should be managed.
It also covers things like UWB which will become prevalent in the future.
Amendment to the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice (11th Edition) | Ofcom
Amendment to the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice (11th Edition) | Ofcom
Ofcom is consulting on the amendment to the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice (11th Edition) which closes on 5pm on 16 January 2008.
PhonepayPlus is the industry body formerly known as ICSTIS who are the industry body for Premium Rate Services.
Ofcom works with PhoneypayPlus for the regulation of PRS though they are independent organisations.
Ofcom is consulting on the amendment to the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice (11th Edition) which closes on 5pm on 16 January 2008.
PhonepayPlus is the industry body formerly known as ICSTIS who are the industry body for Premium Rate Services.
Ofcom works with PhoneypayPlus for the regulation of PRS though they are independent organisations.
2007/12/03
Statement on the making of regulations in connection with the award of 10 GHz, 28 GHz, 32 GHz and 40 GHz | Ofcom
Statement on the making of regulations in connection with the award of 10 GHz, 28 GHz, 32 GHz and 40 GHz | Ofcom
Ofcom has made 4 statutory instruments which will come into force on December 21st 2007 relating to the 4 awards of spectrum. They are also expecting applications to be entered on the 16th Jan 2008 (which will be confirmed after the SIs come into force).
Various of these allocations didn't really amount to anything last time they were licensed (the 10GHz licenses returned their licenses), but with new technology available there may be renewed interest.
Ofcom has made 4 statutory instruments which will come into force on December 21st 2007 relating to the 4 awards of spectrum. They are also expecting applications to be entered on the 16th Jan 2008 (which will be confirmed after the SIs come into force).
Various of these allocations didn't really amount to anything last time they were licensed (the 10GHz licenses returned their licenses), but with new technology available there may be renewed interest.
Ofcom sets industry deadline for two hour mobile number porting | Ofcom
Ofcom sets industry deadline for two hour mobile number porting | Ofcom
Ofcom has published timescales for mobile operators to implement 2 hour port times.
Ofcom has already published a date of April 2008 for moving the current 5 day period to 2 hours and now in September 2009 operators will have to reduce the porting time to 2 hours.
Ofcom are also making the operators implement a database for efficient porting and routing of calls.
Ofcom has published timescales for mobile operators to implement 2 hour port times.
Ofcom has already published a date of April 2008 for moving the current 5 day period to 2 hours and now in September 2009 operators will have to reduce the porting time to 2 hours.
Ofcom are also making the operators implement a database for efficient porting and routing of calls.
All eyes on London as Ofcom plans spectrum use for the 2012 Olympics | Ofcom
All eyes on London as Ofcom plans spectrum use for the 2012 Olympics | Ofcom
Ofcom are consulting on spectrum for the London 2012 Olympics.
There is a requirement for Private Mobile Radio, audio links (commentary etc) and outside broadcasts.
Anyone wanting to participate should respond.
Ofcom are consulting on spectrum for the London 2012 Olympics.
There is a requirement for Private Mobile Radio, audio links (commentary etc) and outside broadcasts.
Anyone wanting to participate should respond.
2007/11/22
UK Broadband application for licence variation | Ofcom
UK Broadband application for licence variation | Ofcom
Ofcom consulted on permitting a variation in UK Broadband's 3.5GHz license.
The variation asked that UK Broadband to allowed to: -
* use the license in a technology neutral manner (i.e. they can decide what technology to use).
* remove the limitation of only fixed terminals.
* increase the maximum in-band power level to +29dBW/MHz.
Ofcom are planning to grant the variation but limit mobile terminals to 5dBW/MHz and issue the new license as soon as is practical.
This may stimulate UK Broadband's growth, though they are still only offering limited coverage and limited areas.
Ofcom consulted on permitting a variation in UK Broadband's 3.5GHz license.
The variation asked that UK Broadband to allowed to: -
* use the license in a technology neutral manner (i.e. they can decide what technology to use).
* remove the limitation of only fixed terminals.
* increase the maximum in-band power level to +29dBW/MHz.
Ofcom are planning to grant the variation but limit mobile terminals to 5dBW/MHz and issue the new license as soon as is practical.
This may stimulate UK Broadband's growth, though they are still only offering limited coverage and limited areas.
2007/11/21
Skype make users change numbers
Introducing the 3 Skypephone
It seems users in the UK with 020 7 numbers are being forced to change them by mid December 2007, that's about 2 weeks.
When BT make changes they give about 2 years notice.
It seems the numbers allocated belong to Gamma Telecom, so has Skype had a falling out with them? Or did they change UK providers and they don't have a porting agreement with Gamma. Whatever the story is, users are not happy - especially users who have printed their SkypeIn details on business cards.
As Skype are not UK based, Ofcom who would normally stop things like this happening, cant really do much, though new EU regulations might change that as well as Ofcom regulations forcing anyone who operates in the UK to abide by UK regulations.
It seems users in the UK with 020 7 numbers are being forced to change them by mid December 2007, that's about 2 weeks.
When BT make changes they give about 2 years notice.
It seems the numbers allocated belong to Gamma Telecom, so has Skype had a falling out with them? Or did they change UK providers and they don't have a porting agreement with Gamma. Whatever the story is, users are not happy - especially users who have printed their SkypeIn details on business cards.
As Skype are not UK based, Ofcom who would normally stop things like this happening, cant really do much, though new EU regulations might change that as well as Ofcom regulations forcing anyone who operates in the UK to abide by UK regulations.
Upgrading Digital Terrestrial Television | Ofcom
Upgrading Digital Terrestrial Television | Ofcom
There are currently 6 DTT multiplexes and 3 are used for Public Service Broadcasting. Ofcom is planning to clear one of these mutliplexes (Multiplex B, licensed by Ofcom to BBC Free to View Ltd) by moving the existing programming to spare channels in other multiplexes.
Multiplex B will then utilise new standards DVB-T2 (instead of DVB-T which gives and improvement of about 30%) and MPEG4 (instead of MPEG2, a 50% saving in bandwidth).
This could be completed by late 2009/early 2010 in the Granada area while HD broadcasts could start by 2012, with the rest of the country as the digital switchover occurs.
Users could utilise their existing set-top-boxes to view existing channels, but the new channels would only be available to new boxes supporting the DVB-T2 and MPEG4 standards.
Ofcom proposes to invite organisations with Public Service Broadcaster status – principally the BBC, the Channel 3, 4 and 5 licensees and S4C – to set out how they would use the upgraded capacity on Multiplex B.
This is good news as it will allow HD broadcasts on a free-to-air platform. Unfortunately most users will need new STBs, Linux users will rejoice as platforms such as MythTV and other DTT systems can already decode MPEG4.
The consultation closes on 31/01/2008
There are currently 6 DTT multiplexes and 3 are used for Public Service Broadcasting. Ofcom is planning to clear one of these mutliplexes (Multiplex B, licensed by Ofcom to BBC Free to View Ltd) by moving the existing programming to spare channels in other multiplexes.
Multiplex B will then utilise new standards DVB-T2 (instead of DVB-T which gives and improvement of about 30%) and MPEG4 (instead of MPEG2, a 50% saving in bandwidth).
This could be completed by late 2009/early 2010 in the Granada area while HD broadcasts could start by 2012, with the rest of the country as the digital switchover occurs.
Users could utilise their existing set-top-boxes to view existing channels, but the new channels would only be available to new boxes supporting the DVB-T2 and MPEG4 standards.
Ofcom proposes to invite organisations with Public Service Broadcaster status – principally the BBC, the Channel 3, 4 and 5 licensees and S4C – to set out how they would use the upgraded capacity on Multiplex B.
This is good news as it will allow HD broadcasts on a free-to-air platform. Unfortunately most users will need new STBs, Linux users will rejoice as platforms such as MythTV and other DTT systems can already decode MPEG4.
The consultation closes on 31/01/2008
2007/11/15
Review of the wholesale broadband access markets 2006/07 | Ofcom
Review of the wholesale broadband access markets 2006/07 | Ofcom
The consultation relates to broadband in the UK. Ofcom has segmented the UK into areas where BT or Kingston Commuications (KCOM) are the only providers of broadband and then were there are other operators in the exchanges.
The breakdown is: -
* those geographic areas covered by exchanges where KCOM is the only operator (“the Hull area”).
* those geographic areas covered by exchanges where BT is the only operator (“Market 1”);
those geographic areas covered by exchanges where there are 2 or 3 Principal Operators AND exchanges where there are 4 or more Principal Operators but where the exchange serves less than 10,000 premises (“Market 2”).
* those geographic areas covered by exchanges where there are 4 or more Principal Operators and where the exchange serves 10,000 or more premises (“Market 3”).
Ofcom has decided that it is a requirement to provide Network Access on reasonable requests, requirement not to discriminate unduly, requirement to publish a reference offer, requirement to notify terms and conditions, requirement to publish technical information, and requirement to have accounting separation.
The most significant bit is that in Market 3 areas Ofcom has decided that (in terms of broadband) BT no longer has significant market power (SMP) and it will be revoked in those areas.
The consultation relates to broadband in the UK. Ofcom has segmented the UK into areas where BT or Kingston Commuications (KCOM) are the only providers of broadband and then were there are other operators in the exchanges.
The breakdown is: -
* those geographic areas covered by exchanges where KCOM is the only operator (“the Hull area”).
* those geographic areas covered by exchanges where BT is the only operator (“Market 1”);
those geographic areas covered by exchanges where there are 2 or 3 Principal Operators AND exchanges where there are 4 or more Principal Operators but where the exchange serves less than 10,000 premises (“Market 2”).
* those geographic areas covered by exchanges where there are 4 or more Principal Operators and where the exchange serves 10,000 or more premises (“Market 3”).
Ofcom has decided that it is a requirement to provide Network Access on reasonable requests, requirement not to discriminate unduly, requirement to publish a reference offer, requirement to notify terms and conditions, requirement to publish technical information, and requirement to have accounting separation.
The most significant bit is that in Market 3 areas Ofcom has decided that (in terms of broadband) BT no longer has significant market power (SMP) and it will be revoked in those areas.
2007/11/14
Raising Confidence in Telephone Numbers | Ofcom
Raising Confidence in Telephone Numbers | Ofcom
Ofcom introduced the 03 range (which are charged at local rate) to encourage companies to migrate from 0870 numbers. To this end, Ofcom were going to mandate the anyone using 0870 services would have to pre-announce the call rate before the call was connected to make the consumer aware of any charges. This was to have taken place in Feb 2007.
Ofcom have been made aware that some automatic emergency services (alarms etc) make use of 0870 numbers and these would be adversely affected by the pre-announcement (they would time out and therefore the call would not complete).
Ofcom are working with the affected service providers and hope to bring in the new regulations in the spring of next year.
Ofcom introduced the 03 range (which are charged at local rate) to encourage companies to migrate from 0870 numbers. To this end, Ofcom were going to mandate the anyone using 0870 services would have to pre-announce the call rate before the call was connected to make the consumer aware of any charges. This was to have taken place in Feb 2007.
Ofcom have been made aware that some automatic emergency services (alarms etc) make use of 0870 numbers and these would be adversely affected by the pre-announcement (they would time out and therefore the call would not complete).
Ofcom are working with the affected service providers and hope to bring in the new regulations in the spring of next year.
Wireless Telegraphy Licence Exemption - Automotive Short Range Radar | Ofcom
Wireless Telegraphy Licence Exemption - Automotive Short Range Radar | Ofcom
Ofcom are consulting on the use of automotive short range radar that operates in the 24GHz band (21.65 to 26.65 GHz), following an EU directive to make this band available.
Automotive equipment may interfere with radio astronomy systems which also use this band, so Ofcom wish to have exclusion zones around radio astronomy sites and equipment must automatically or manually deactivate around such sites.
The consultation closes on 31St Decemeber 2007.
Ofcom are consulting on the use of automotive short range radar that operates in the 24GHz band (21.65 to 26.65 GHz), following an EU directive to make this band available.
Automotive equipment may interfere with radio astronomy systems which also use this band, so Ofcom wish to have exclusion zones around radio astronomy sites and equipment must automatically or manually deactivate around such sites.
The consultation closes on 31St Decemeber 2007.
2007/11/13
Numbering Policy | Ofcom
Numbering Policy | Ofcom
In March 2007 Ofcom mandated that all next Sexual Enterntainment Services must use numbers starting with a 098 prefix and this came into force on Thu 08/11/07. Existing services running on 0909 and 0909 can continue to use these ranges, though no new 0908/0909 numbers will be allocated.
On Monday 09/11/07 Ofcom also opened up the 0902 and 0903 number ranges for PRS (premium rate services) which can be applied for using the S9 “The Numbering Application Form”.
Ofcom also announced that the new 03 number range is being used and there have been over 13 million numbers allocated to more than 80 providers. 03 numbers are expected to replace 084/087 numbers for public organisations etc.
In March 2007 Ofcom mandated that all next Sexual Enterntainment Services must use numbers starting with a 098 prefix and this came into force on Thu 08/11/07. Existing services running on 0909 and 0909 can continue to use these ranges, though no new 0908/0909 numbers will be allocated.
On Monday 09/11/07 Ofcom also opened up the 0902 and 0903 number ranges for PRS (premium rate services) which can be applied for using the S9 “The Numbering Application Form”.
Ofcom also announced that the new 03 number range is being used and there have been over 13 million numbers allocated to more than 80 providers. 03 numbers are expected to replace 084/087 numbers for public organisations etc.
2007/11/06
Open Handset Alliance
Open Handset Alliance
The Open Handset Alliance seems to have been launched on Nov 5th 2007 and the website is run by Google, so it looks like this will be the basis for the GPhone.
The core technology comes from Android (which was set-up by ex Danger i.e. SideKick management).
An SDK is going to be made available from the site on Nov 12th 2007. The software will be released under an Apache 2 style license (allowing licensees to modify the code without putting the modifications back) which is hopefully going to allow commercially different variants.
They have various partners including various handset manufacturers, so it looks like the GPhone may be a set of software services on a technology platform rather than specific hardware.
The Open Handset Alliance seems to have been launched on Nov 5th 2007 and the website is run by Google, so it looks like this will be the basis for the GPhone.
The core technology comes from Android (which was set-up by ex Danger i.e. SideKick management).
An SDK is going to be made available from the site on Nov 12th 2007. The software will be released under an Apache 2 style license (allowing licensees to modify the code without putting the modifications back) which is hopefully going to allow commercially different variants.
They have various partners including various handset manufacturers, so it looks like the GPhone may be a set of software services on a technology platform rather than specific hardware.
2007/11/03
LinkedIn going to Facebook
It's rumoured that LinkedIn is about to be snapped up by Facebook. The business networking market has dried up as Facebook dominates the social networking space, and LinkedIn is suffering.
A combined Facebook/LinkedIn would make a very powerful networking site, attracted business and youth markets. interesting times ahead.
A combined Facebook/LinkedIn would make a very powerful networking site, attracted business and youth markets. interesting times ahead.
2007/10/30
iPhone unleashed
An iPhone (8GB) arrived a week or so ago from the US, it's very pretty. Unfortunately a US iPhone is the UK is as useful as a slim shiny brick.
A friend unbricked it (using the commercial AnySIM package - not recommended for beginners, even though it's commercial, it's far from easy getting an iPhone into an unlocked state) and then installed the AppInstaller.
AppInstaller is a nice piece of software that manages 3rd party iPhone packages, it checks back with a repository and then pulls in whatever's required. It can also check for updated packages. At the moment any dependency checking is manual, but they're bound to fix it.
Then put all the settings in for the UK network, and it all worked. Seems there's quite a few E.D.G.E. cells around, though speeds are no where near 3G which is a shame.
The user interface is fantastic, especially the two fingered zoom and the rotating screen depending on the orientation of the phone.
It even works as a phone pretty well.
As an iPod it syncs with iTunes, but can sync all your contacts (from Address Book on Macs or Outlook on PCs), these are then all available through the phone itself. Though you can add address book entries, it doesn't seem to allow downloading vCards into the phone - which is a real shame.
Calendar entries are also synced.
Though it's a nice piece or ergnomic engineering, the total cost of ownership on an O2 contract is going to be off-putting.
A friend unbricked it (using the commercial AnySIM package - not recommended for beginners, even though it's commercial, it's far from easy getting an iPhone into an unlocked state) and then installed the AppInstaller.
AppInstaller is a nice piece of software that manages 3rd party iPhone packages, it checks back with a repository and then pulls in whatever's required. It can also check for updated packages. At the moment any dependency checking is manual, but they're bound to fix it.
Then put all the settings in for the UK network, and it all worked. Seems there's quite a few E.D.G.E. cells around, though speeds are no where near 3G which is a shame.
The user interface is fantastic, especially the two fingered zoom and the rotating screen depending on the orientation of the phone.
It even works as a phone pretty well.
As an iPod it syncs with iTunes, but can sync all your contacts (from Address Book on Macs or Outlook on PCs), these are then all available through the phone itself. Though you can add address book entries, it doesn't seem to allow downloading vCards into the phone - which is a real shame.
Calendar entries are also synced.
Though it's a nice piece or ergnomic engineering, the total cost of ownership on an O2 contract is going to be off-putting.
Apple iLife/iWork '08 and Leopard
I recently upgraded my MacOS X 10.4(.11) PowerBook G4 with iLife '08 and iWork '08. Unfortunately Apple charge for these and OS upgrades don't always upgrade your original versions if you haven't upgraded.
Many of the changes are minor, but there are some big ones, there's now much tighter integration with .Mac (which requires a seperate subscription). iMovie doesn't upgrade unless you have a reasonably fast Mac (the G4 Powerbook didn't cut the mustard).
iWork '08 is a much more significant upgrade, there's a new application "Numbers" which is Apple's answer to Excel. It isn't there yet and it's not completely compatible, though supporting most of the basic features. It seems to be designed for marketing execs who like to produce all sorts of fancy graphs. Pages (the word processor) is also more suited to doing fancy sheets like flyers or greeting cards, though it will read MS Word (and other format) documents. Keynote (presentations) is a very sophisticated presentation tool in its own right, arguably it has more sophisticated animations and transitions that MS Powerpoint (and will happily read Powerpoint files too and export them). Apple use Keynote for all their public presentations and it's pretty slick, though Powerpoint users will have to go through a learning exercise to migrate.
Newbies (new users) will probably find all the iWork packages relatively easy to use if they haven't been sucked into using MS products already.
Briefly, Leopard (MacOS X 10.5.0) is a significant upgrade. There are some genuinely innovative features (however some bits look a lot like Vista). Coverflow can be used to scan for files (like iTunes artwork) but MacOS actually previews the content of the file while scanning and it supports a lot of formats, including Word, Excel, Powerpoint (or Keynote), Movies etc. If the 'space-bar' is hit while viewing a file, then then content of the document can be previewed (i.e. all the pages of a PDF or slides in a presentation seen). It isn't possible to actually edit the files unless you have the relevent package installed though.
Leopard can do the same thing across a network and scan both Windows PCs and other Macs (well public shares anyway). If a remote user is using iChat, then it can be used to send/receive files between users and remotely control the remote Mac (if the user allows it).
There are many low level enhancements and the OS is now truly 64bit (well almost). This should make things faster on 64 bit machines (G5's or newer Intel systems). There doesn't seem a noticable speed increase on the Powerbook G4, but a MacBook Pro did seem slightly more responsive.
Time machine is Apple's new back-up system. It can save a complete copy of the installed system on to a locally connected drive (internal on a MacPro, or externally on laptops via USB or Firewire), it will also save to an Xserve running Leopard server (in a workgroup situation). The drive needs to be significantly bigger than the drive that is backed-up as once the original data is saved, incremental back-ups are performed. It does this in a reasonably clever manner, so only changed files are saved, but looking at a back-up shows the complete directory structure as was on the disk at the time. Any file saved can easily be restored by just going back the time-line to before the delete occurred.
It's also possible to completely restore a Mac (say if the hard disk is replaced) as the OS now has a restore from Time Machine type option.
2 million copies of Leopard have been sold in the first weekend, which is pretty astounding feat for an operating system, older Macs will gain less of advantage than newer ones with 64bit CPUs and decent graphics systems.
Many of the changes are minor, but there are some big ones, there's now much tighter integration with .Mac (which requires a seperate subscription). iMovie doesn't upgrade unless you have a reasonably fast Mac (the G4 Powerbook didn't cut the mustard).
iWork '08 is a much more significant upgrade, there's a new application "Numbers" which is Apple's answer to Excel. It isn't there yet and it's not completely compatible, though supporting most of the basic features. It seems to be designed for marketing execs who like to produce all sorts of fancy graphs. Pages (the word processor) is also more suited to doing fancy sheets like flyers or greeting cards, though it will read MS Word (and other format) documents. Keynote (presentations) is a very sophisticated presentation tool in its own right, arguably it has more sophisticated animations and transitions that MS Powerpoint (and will happily read Powerpoint files too and export them). Apple use Keynote for all their public presentations and it's pretty slick, though Powerpoint users will have to go through a learning exercise to migrate.
Newbies (new users) will probably find all the iWork packages relatively easy to use if they haven't been sucked into using MS products already.
Briefly, Leopard (MacOS X 10.5.0) is a significant upgrade. There are some genuinely innovative features (however some bits look a lot like Vista). Coverflow can be used to scan for files (like iTunes artwork) but MacOS actually previews the content of the file while scanning and it supports a lot of formats, including Word, Excel, Powerpoint (or Keynote), Movies etc. If the 'space-bar' is hit while viewing a file, then then content of the document can be previewed (i.e. all the pages of a PDF or slides in a presentation seen). It isn't possible to actually edit the files unless you have the relevent package installed though.
Leopard can do the same thing across a network and scan both Windows PCs and other Macs (well public shares anyway). If a remote user is using iChat, then it can be used to send/receive files between users and remotely control the remote Mac (if the user allows it).
There are many low level enhancements and the OS is now truly 64bit (well almost). This should make things faster on 64 bit machines (G5's or newer Intel systems). There doesn't seem a noticable speed increase on the Powerbook G4, but a MacBook Pro did seem slightly more responsive.
Time machine is Apple's new back-up system. It can save a complete copy of the installed system on to a locally connected drive (internal on a MacPro, or externally on laptops via USB or Firewire), it will also save to an Xserve running Leopard server (in a workgroup situation). The drive needs to be significantly bigger than the drive that is backed-up as once the original data is saved, incremental back-ups are performed. It does this in a reasonably clever manner, so only changed files are saved, but looking at a back-up shows the complete directory structure as was on the disk at the time. Any file saved can easily be restored by just going back the time-line to before the delete occurred.
It's also possible to completely restore a Mac (say if the hard disk is replaced) as the OS now has a restore from Time Machine type option.
2 million copies of Leopard have been sold in the first weekend, which is pretty astounding feat for an operating system, older Macs will gain less of advantage than newer ones with 64bit CPUs and decent graphics systems.
N&S Admin Fees List 2007/08 | Ofcom
N&S Admin Fees List 2007/08 | Ofcom
Ofcom has published a list of Telecoms companies that pay admin fees to Ofcom, they are: -
Alternative Networks Plc
AT&T Global Network Services UK
Band X Ltd
Sky Subscriber Services Ltd
British Telecommunications Plc
Cable & Wireless Plc
Carphone Warehouse PLC
CityLink Telecommunications Ltd
Colt Telecom Group Ltd
Eckoh Technologies Plc
Eircom UK Ltd
Fibernet Ltd
France Telecom Network Services UK Ltd
Fujitsu Services Ltd
Gamma Telecommunications Ltd
Genesis Communications Ltd
Global Crossing (UK)
Globecast Northern Europe Ltd
Hutchison 3G UK Ltd
IDT Global Ltd
Intercity Mobile Communications Ltd
Interoute Communications Ltd
KDDI Europe Ltd
Kingston Communications Ltd
Level 3 Communications Ltd
MLL Telecom Ltd
National Grid Wireless Ltd
Net Services Plc
O2 UK Ltd
Opera Telecom Ltd
Orange Personal Communications Services Ltd
PageOne Communications Ltd
Pipex Communications Plc
Plusnet Plc
PNC Telecom Services Ltd
Primus Telecommunications Ltd
Reach Europe Ltd
Redstone Communications Ltd
RM Plc
Siemens Enterprise Communications Ltd
SingTel (Europe) Limited
Sprintlink UK Ltd
SSE Telecommunications Ltd
Stratos Global Holdings Ltd
Surf Telecoms Ltd
Telecom Direct Ltd
Telecom Italia UK Ltd
Telecom NZ (UK) Licenses Ltd
Telecom Plus Plc
Teleglobe International Ltd
TeliaSonera International Carrier UK Ltd
Tesco Stores Ltd
Thus plc
Tiscali UK Ltd
T-Mobile (UK) Ltd
Transcomm UK Ltd
Verizon UK Ltd (MCI)
Virgin Media Ltd
Vodafone Ltd
VTL (UK) Ltd
Zen Internet Ltd
Though Telecom License fees (as per the Telecommunications Act) were scrapped when the Communications Act came into force, bigger players and players that have "the code" (code powers as was, which allows them to dig - potentially without the landowners permission - by getting a court order) still have to pay fees.
As consolidation increases, the list will diminish.
Ofcom has published a list of Telecoms companies that pay admin fees to Ofcom, they are: -
Alternative Networks Plc
AT&T Global Network Services UK
Band X Ltd
Sky Subscriber Services Ltd
British Telecommunications Plc
Cable & Wireless Plc
Carphone Warehouse PLC
CityLink Telecommunications Ltd
Colt Telecom Group Ltd
Eckoh Technologies Plc
Eircom UK Ltd
Fibernet Ltd
France Telecom Network Services UK Ltd
Fujitsu Services Ltd
Gamma Telecommunications Ltd
Genesis Communications Ltd
Global Crossing (UK)
Globecast Northern Europe Ltd
Hutchison 3G UK Ltd
IDT Global Ltd
Intercity Mobile Communications Ltd
Interoute Communications Ltd
KDDI Europe Ltd
Kingston Communications Ltd
Level 3 Communications Ltd
MLL Telecom Ltd
National Grid Wireless Ltd
Net Services Plc
O2 UK Ltd
Opera Telecom Ltd
Orange Personal Communications Services Ltd
PageOne Communications Ltd
Pipex Communications Plc
Plusnet Plc
PNC Telecom Services Ltd
Primus Telecommunications Ltd
Reach Europe Ltd
Redstone Communications Ltd
RM Plc
Siemens Enterprise Communications Ltd
SingTel (Europe) Limited
Sprintlink UK Ltd
SSE Telecommunications Ltd
Stratos Global Holdings Ltd
Surf Telecoms Ltd
Telecom Direct Ltd
Telecom Italia UK Ltd
Telecom NZ (UK) Licenses Ltd
Telecom Plus Plc
Teleglobe International Ltd
TeliaSonera International Carrier UK Ltd
Tesco Stores Ltd
Thus plc
Tiscali UK Ltd
T-Mobile (UK) Ltd
Transcomm UK Ltd
Verizon UK Ltd (MCI)
Virgin Media Ltd
Vodafone Ltd
VTL (UK) Ltd
Zen Internet Ltd
Though Telecom License fees (as per the Telecommunications Act) were scrapped when the Communications Act came into force, bigger players and players that have "the code" (code powers as was, which allows them to dig - potentially without the landowners permission - by getting a court order) still have to pay fees.
As consolidation increases, the list will diminish.
2007/10/24
Mobile Communications onboard Aircraft - Consultation on the introduction of mobile services on aircraft | Ofcom
Mobile Communications onboard Aircraft - Consultation on the introduction of mobile services on aircraft | Ofcom
It's a bit old as the announcement got lost in the INBOX, however Ofcom is consulting on mobile services on aircraft (MCA).
This would involve putting one or more pico or femto cells on an aircraft which would then use satellite to connect back to a ground based BSC (basestation controller). Satellite phone on planes are already in-use, but this would allow for users to utilse their existing mobile phones - both voice and data could be supported.
Planes already have to use licensed spectrum for other services and these are managed by the CAA (under remit from Ofcom) and Ofcom are proposing that although a specific license would be required and issued by the CAA, no additional fees would be required.
Airlines would be able to get licenses on request and the technical and authorisation schemes would be agreed by ECC, ETSI and endorsed by RSC and COCOM.
MCA would be allocated non-geographic international mobile network codes issued by the ITU specific to aircraft services.
As an operator of telecoms services (or more precisely Electronic Communications Services) airlines would be subject to the standard obligations under the General Conditions of Entitlement (so they'd have to support wire-tapping for example).
The consultation closes on 30th Nov 2007.
It's a bit old as the announcement got lost in the INBOX, however Ofcom is consulting on mobile services on aircraft (MCA).
This would involve putting one or more pico or femto cells on an aircraft which would then use satellite to connect back to a ground based BSC (basestation controller). Satellite phone on planes are already in-use, but this would allow for users to utilse their existing mobile phones - both voice and data could be supported.
Planes already have to use licensed spectrum for other services and these are managed by the CAA (under remit from Ofcom) and Ofcom are proposing that although a specific license would be required and issued by the CAA, no additional fees would be required.
Airlines would be able to get licenses on request and the technical and authorisation schemes would be agreed by ECC, ETSI and endorsed by RSC and COCOM.
MCA would be allocated non-geographic international mobile network codes issued by the ITU specific to aircraft services.
As an operator of telecoms services (or more precisely Electronic Communications Services) airlines would be subject to the standard obligations under the General Conditions of Entitlement (so they'd have to support wire-tapping for example).
The consultation closes on 30th Nov 2007.
2007/10/22
Wacom Cintiq 12WX
Wacom has launched a £700 tablet the Cintiq 12WX.
It has a 12.1" display and comes with a pressure sensitive pen, it's equivalent to a Intuous3 with an in-built display.
Aimed at professional users who want a realistic drawing surface, the display resolution is 1280 x 800, then pen has 1024 levels of sensitivity and there are several colour profiles.
It has a VGA and DVI interface so can act as a second or even third display for most systems (though it can be used as a primary display).
It can be used for "touching-up" graphics accurately, though white-boarding also seems a logical use.
£700 is considerably cheaper than previous models.
It has a 12.1" display and comes with a pressure sensitive pen, it's equivalent to a Intuous3 with an in-built display.
Aimed at professional users who want a realistic drawing surface, the display resolution is 1280 x 800, then pen has 1024 levels of sensitivity and there are several colour profiles.
It has a VGA and DVI interface so can act as a second or even third display for most systems (though it can be used as a primary display).
It can be used for "touching-up" graphics accurately, though white-boarding also seems a logical use.
£700 is considerably cheaper than previous models.
2007/10/17
Apple to unlock iPhone
Steve Jobs has announced that the iPhone will eventually allow 3rd party apps to be installed, but not just yet.
Apple are hoping to release an iPhone SDK in February 2008 but are still wary about exposing the phone to viruses, malware etc.
This seems an about turn and it looks like they're giving in to consumer pressure, though running MacOS X (though an embedded variant) means it's likely anyone who can program for MacOS X should can do so for the iPhone.
Apple are hoping to release an iPhone SDK in February 2008 but are still wary about exposing the phone to viruses, malware etc.
This seems an about turn and it looks like they're giving in to consumer pressure, though running MacOS X (though an embedded variant) means it's likely anyone who can program for MacOS X should can do so for the iPhone.
2007/10/10
LinkedIn hits 1m UK users
LinkedIn has hit 1m UK users. This is a pretty astounding achievement for a business networking site, it also means they must be running out of UK customers too.
Though other social networking sites are growing at a much faster rate (think Facebook), they are targetting a more generic audience.
LinkedIn is very good for connecting to business colleagues and keeping track of what they are doing, who's hiring etc.
Though other social networking sites are growing at a much faster rate (think Facebook), they are targetting a more generic audience.
LinkedIn is very good for connecting to business colleagues and keeping track of what they are doing, who's hiring etc.
2007/10/04
Bootcamp to expire
Apple's Bootcamp system (which allows Windows or MacOS X to run on Apple hardware) will expire when the next version of MacOS X 10.5 (Leopard) is launched.
Bootcamp is currently offered as a beta download.
Bootcamp differs from Parallels or VMWare's offering in that it encapsulates a Windows partition on the hard disk and allows a Windows operating system to boot or MacOS X. Parallels is a virtual machine which runs inside MacOS X, allowing a Windows OS to run in parallel with MacOS X (there's a reason why they called it Parallels).
Bootcamp is currently offered as a beta download.
Bootcamp differs from Parallels or VMWare's offering in that it encapsulates a Windows partition on the hard disk and allows a Windows operating system to boot or MacOS X. Parallels is a virtual machine which runs inside MacOS X, allowing a Windows OS to run in parallel with MacOS X (there's a reason why they called it Parallels).
BT invests in FON
BT has invested in the Spanish company FON. BT state this is to increase wireless coverage, but it could also be a way to increase use of their Fusion packages which haven't really taken off in a big way (Fusion is BT's converged mobile service which allows a mobile phone to roam on to a [Bluetooth in a home environment] WiFi gateway).
FON sells or gives away WiFi access points preconfigured to work with FON and these allow the user to set-up whether they'll give free or charged access to their broadband services.
FON sells or gives away WiFi access points preconfigured to work with FON and these allow the user to set-up whether they'll give free or charged access to their broadband services.
O2 to allow "free" access to social networking sites
During October and November O2 is going to allow free mobile data access to social networking sites MySpace and Facebook, after which it will encourage users to sign-up to it's unlimited data plans (which aren't really unlimited at all, but nothing new there).
It's the old system of getting users hooked and then charging them for the service, but they'll probably attract quite a few users to their data plans this way.
O2 are also going to launch their broadband services soon (they bought Be a while back), some of which will be free if the monthly mobile spend is high enough.
It's the old system of getting users hooked and then charging them for the service, but they'll probably attract quite a few users to their data plans this way.
O2 are also going to launch their broadband services soon (they bought Be a while back), some of which will be free if the monthly mobile spend is high enough.
3Com launches Asterisk based SMB IP PBX
3Com has launched a $1,600 30-user Asterisk appliance based IP PBX.
It's essentially just a resale of the Asterisk appliance by 3Com, but it's sold and supported by 3Com.
The Asterisk IP PBX is a great piece of software (it's available for download from the Asterisk website), but it's not for the feint hearted. It runs on Linux and is reasonably complex to set-up. Unfortunately documentation is severely lacking (though there are some good books out there from publishers like O'Reilly and various websites like VoIP Info) and often a response is "look in the code".
Having "real" vendors support Asterisk means it will get into the mainstream markets and that's likely to produce some good documentation.
As the 3Com unit is a pre-installed system, configuration is a lot simper and newer versions of Asterisk come with a web based configuration system. Though that takes some of the fun out of hand writing dial-plans - which may change the definition of fun.
It's essentially just a resale of the Asterisk appliance by 3Com, but it's sold and supported by 3Com.
The Asterisk IP PBX is a great piece of software (it's available for download from the Asterisk website), but it's not for the feint hearted. It runs on Linux and is reasonably complex to set-up. Unfortunately documentation is severely lacking (though there are some good books out there from publishers like O'Reilly and various websites like VoIP Info) and often a response is "look in the code".
Having "real" vendors support Asterisk means it will get into the mainstream markets and that's likely to produce some good documentation.
As the 3Com unit is a pre-installed system, configuration is a lot simper and newer versions of Asterisk come with a web based configuration system. Though that takes some of the fun out of hand writing dial-plans - which may change the definition of fun.
Talklets, making the web speak
The world of cinema changed when silent movies became talkies, now the same is (slowly) happening with the web. A UK company Textics has developed Talklets accessibility enabling technology.
Talklets is actually a web based service that can perform text-to-speech and a website owner only needs to put Javascript tags on the site which enables a Talklets toolbar which controls the text-to-speech system. It also allows for other functionality such as "right-click" floating toolbars which can be configured per site, the standard toolbar will allow offer the user a dictionary or theasurus look-up on the word the mouse is over. In future it will also allow per site lexicons which can allow for local "buzzwords" to be explained.
Talkets can also take RSS feeds and convert them to MP3s, which is like having a local newsreader.
Textics is part of the Hidden Differences Group which is a company that is trying to make the web accessible, in the UK 20% of the population at least have reading difficulties. Developing countries have an even higher percentage that cant read but almost everyone can speak.
Talklets is actually a web based service that can perform text-to-speech and a website owner only needs to put Javascript tags on the site which enables a Talklets toolbar which controls the text-to-speech system. It also allows for other functionality such as "right-click" floating toolbars which can be configured per site, the standard toolbar will allow offer the user a dictionary or theasurus look-up on the word the mouse is over. In future it will also allow per site lexicons which can allow for local "buzzwords" to be explained.
Talkets can also take RSS feeds and convert them to MP3s, which is like having a local newsreader.
Textics is part of the Hidden Differences Group which is a company that is trying to make the web accessible, in the UK 20% of the population at least have reading difficulties. Developing countries have an even higher percentage that cant read but almost everyone can speak.
2007/10/02
RIPA goes live
The Regulation of Investigatory Powers (RIP) Act has actually been live for a while, but from today all telecoms companies must store records of all phone calls (and mobile networks SMS messages) for a year.
Though the actual conversation are not recorded (and SMS messages are not saved), but the caller and called numbers (and how long they talked) must be stored, for SMS the origination and destination number are stored.
Telcos have always stored the data (they use it for billing), but it's now who has access to it which comes into force. Around 650 organisations will be able to request records under the RIP Act, from normal agencies such as government, police, security forces to councils and even the charity commission and various quangos.
It's been slipped through as "helping to fight terrorism" ...
Though the actual conversation are not recorded (and SMS messages are not saved), but the caller and called numbers (and how long they talked) must be stored, for SMS the origination and destination number are stored.
Telcos have always stored the data (they use it for billing), but it's now who has access to it which comes into force. Around 650 organisations will be able to request records under the RIP Act, from normal agencies such as government, police, security forces to councils and even the charity commission and various quangos.
It's been slipped through as "helping to fight terrorism" ...
Ofcom tries to ensure the future of Sitefinder
Sitefinder is Ofcom's database of mobile cell sites. The mobile network operators (MNOs) used to supply data on a voluntary basis which contained the location of cells.
Ofcom was forced to make extra data available that showed cell sectors and transmitter power etc. after a freedom of information request, though Ofcom resisted it went to the Information Tribunal and Ofcom lost.
Since Sitefinder is populated voluntarily, the MNOs felt they were giving away competetively sensitive information and have stopped providing new information.
Ofcom is urging the MNOs to continue populating Sitefinder and is also appealing the Information Tribunal’s decision so that in future sensitive information does not need to be released.
Sitefinder is an important database as it helps Ofcom conduct its duties as a regulator, having stale data reduces that usefulness.
Ofcom was forced to make extra data available that showed cell sectors and transmitter power etc. after a freedom of information request, though Ofcom resisted it went to the Information Tribunal and Ofcom lost.
Since Sitefinder is populated voluntarily, the MNOs felt they were giving away competetively sensitive information and have stopped providing new information.
Ofcom is urging the MNOs to continue populating Sitefinder and is also appealing the Information Tribunal’s decision so that in future sensitive information does not need to be released.
Sitefinder is an important database as it helps Ofcom conduct its duties as a regulator, having stale data reduces that usefulness.
2007/09/27
Ofcom fines GMTV £2m
Ofcom has today fined GMTV £2,000,000 for misconduct in viewer competitions between August 2003 and February 2007. This is the largest financial penalty to be imposed against a broadcaster by Ofcom.
GMTV was found in breach of the following rules:
Rule 2.11 of the Ofcom Broadcasting Code, which came into effect on 25 July
2005, “Competitions should be conducted fairly…”; and
Rule 8.2(b) of the ITC (Independent Television Commission) Code 2002 "Use of Premium Rate
Telephone Services in Programmes: The licensee must retain control of and responsibility
for the service arrangements....".
This is the highest fine ever imposed on a broadcaster in the UK.
Opal Telecom (the operator who actually ran the telecoms operation) were also fined £250,000.
Ofcom considers fast broadband outlook and pledges clarity for investors | Ofcom
Ofcom considers fast broadband outlook and pledges clarity for investors | Ofcom
Ofcom is holding a consultation into Next Generation Access (NGA). This is the ability to deliver high speed services into the home.
Though: -
- over ninety-nine per cent of the UK is connected to a broadband enabled exchange;
- over half of UK households have taken up broadband;
- almost three quarters have a choice of at least two broadband (ADSL and/or cable)
network providers;
- the average headline speed has doubled in a year to reach 4.6mb/s and broadband prices
have fallen by 9% in the last twelve months.
Ofcom want to continue to ensure that there is competetion in the market etc.
The consultation closes on Dec 5th 2007.
Ofcom is holding a consultation into Next Generation Access (NGA). This is the ability to deliver high speed services into the home.
Though: -
- over ninety-nine per cent of the UK is connected to a broadband enabled exchange;
- over half of UK households have taken up broadband;
- almost three quarters have a choice of at least two broadband (ADSL and/or cable)
network providers;
- the average headline speed has doubled in a year to reach 4.6mb/s and broadband prices
have fallen by 9% in the last twelve months.
Ofcom want to continue to ensure that there is competetion in the market etc.
The consultation closes on Dec 5th 2007.
Stephen Fry
Stephen Fry
If you're a fan of Stephen Fry, here's his blog - or more the rantings of of a very educated technogeek. It's not what you'd think. He appraises the current tranch of smartphones including Apple's iPhone.
As a dedicated Mac fan, he's not ashamed to blast its deficiencies as well as those from virtually every other smartphone vendor.
It's only his first post, so hopefully lots more to come.
If you're a fan of Stephen Fry, here's his blog - or more the rantings of of a very educated technogeek. It's not what you'd think. He appraises the current tranch of smartphones including Apple's iPhone.
As a dedicated Mac fan, he's not ashamed to blast its deficiencies as well as those from virtually every other smartphone vendor.
It's only his first post, so hopefully lots more to come.
2007/09/25
Application of spectrum liberalisation and trading to the mobile sector | Ofcom
Application of spectrum liberalisation and trading to the mobile sector | Ofcom
Ofcom, following a decision by the RSC (which sets radio spectrum policy in the EU and other areas) is consulting on what should be done with spectrum in the 900MHz and 1800MHz bands.
900MHz is currently used by O2 and Vodafone, while 1800MHz is utilised by T-Mobile, Orange, O2 and Vodafone (though T-Mobile and Orange utilise the bulk of it).
Ofcom could re-allocate the spectrum in several ways (and have come out with 4 options, 1 through D where A is just re-use and D is complete re-allocation).
Since the characteristics of the 1800MHz band are similar to that of the 2.1GHz (2100MHz) and even 2.5/2.6GHz bands, the economic case for re-allocation (including disruption to existing operators) doesn't seem the best way forwards and Ofcom is proposing just to allow spectrum re-use (i.e. currently only 2G services can be utilised in this spectrum, but Ofcom is proposing that 3G services will also be allowed, but by the existing operators).
900MHz is much more valuable spectrum as it has very good propogation characteristics (especially in built-up areas). Ofcom are therefore proposing to revoke some spectrum from O2 and Vodafone's allocations. It is likely that O2 and Vodafone will complain bitterly, especially O2 as they are rolling-out an E.D.G.E. network (which is GSM based) to support Apple's iPhone and other terminals - so they are upgrading their existing network, only to be mandated to release spectrum.
By releasing two blocks of spectrum in the 900MHz band, Ofcom would allow 2 new entrants into the market who could offer 3G or wireless broadband services. This would increase competition and allow new services to be offered. There are already 3G networks running on 900MHz so equipment is readily available.
O2 and Vodafone will not be allowed to bid on the revoked spectrum.
Anyone wishing to respond to the consultation has until the 29th of November to do so.
Ofcom, following a decision by the RSC (which sets radio spectrum policy in the EU and other areas) is consulting on what should be done with spectrum in the 900MHz and 1800MHz bands.
900MHz is currently used by O2 and Vodafone, while 1800MHz is utilised by T-Mobile, Orange, O2 and Vodafone (though T-Mobile and Orange utilise the bulk of it).
Ofcom could re-allocate the spectrum in several ways (and have come out with 4 options, 1 through D where A is just re-use and D is complete re-allocation).
Since the characteristics of the 1800MHz band are similar to that of the 2.1GHz (2100MHz) and even 2.5/2.6GHz bands, the economic case for re-allocation (including disruption to existing operators) doesn't seem the best way forwards and Ofcom is proposing just to allow spectrum re-use (i.e. currently only 2G services can be utilised in this spectrum, but Ofcom is proposing that 3G services will also be allowed, but by the existing operators).
900MHz is much more valuable spectrum as it has very good propogation characteristics (especially in built-up areas). Ofcom are therefore proposing to revoke some spectrum from O2 and Vodafone's allocations. It is likely that O2 and Vodafone will complain bitterly, especially O2 as they are rolling-out an E.D.G.E. network (which is GSM based) to support Apple's iPhone and other terminals - so they are upgrading their existing network, only to be mandated to release spectrum.
By releasing two blocks of spectrum in the 900MHz band, Ofcom would allow 2 new entrants into the market who could offer 3G or wireless broadband services. This would increase competition and allow new services to be offered. There are already 3G networks running on 900MHz so equipment is readily available.
O2 and Vodafone will not be allowed to bid on the revoked spectrum.
Anyone wishing to respond to the consultation has until the 29th of November to do so.
2007/09/18
SCO files for Chapter 11
After losing its long-running battle for ownership of Unix copyrights last month, SCO has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Though SCO say their business isn't affected, their long standing argument over ownership of UNIX code and whether various Linux compenents have UNIX code in them, has made them unpopular very unpopular.
Many people wont be sad if they go under, though it will be a shame as they were pioneers when UNIX was originally being developed.
Though SCO say their business isn't affected, their long standing argument over ownership of UNIX code and whether various Linux compenents have UNIX code in them, has made them unpopular very unpopular.
Many people wont be sad if they go under, though it will be a shame as they were pioneers when UNIX was originally being developed.
Sprint announced FemtoCell Airwave service
Sprint has announced its long awaited Airwave service using FemtoCells from Samsung (CDMA).
These are used in the home and utilise broadband for backhaul to Sprints network. When a user's Sprint mobile is in the vicinity of the cell it will use that instead of Sprint's main cell sites. Calls will be heavily discounted or free when in range of the femto cell.
More networks will adopt femto cells as they allow cheaper calls to be offered and high data rate services. The main issue with femto cells is they need licensed spectrum which is scarce in lots of countries.
These are used in the home and utilise broadband for backhaul to Sprints network. When a user's Sprint mobile is in the vicinity of the cell it will use that instead of Sprint's main cell sites. Calls will be heavily discounted or free when in range of the femto cell.
More networks will adopt femto cells as they allow cheaper calls to be offered and high data rate services. The main issue with femto cells is they need licensed spectrum which is scarce in lots of countries.
Zimbra purchased by Yahoo
Zimbra who make the Zimbra Collaboration Suite (or ZCS) have announced they've been purchased by Yahoo.
ZCS is an Email/calendaring/etc suite with support for standard mail protocols and also plug-ins for Outlook etc. It also supports Microsoft's ActiveSync for over the air push Email.
ZCS comes in various flavours including an open source edition and they've stated this will continue to be the case even after the Yahoo purchase.
ZCS is a reasonable UN*X based competitor to Microsoft's Exchange, maybe Yahoo will give it the market distribution it deserves.
ZCS is an Email/calendaring/etc suite with support for standard mail protocols and also plug-ins for Outlook etc. It also supports Microsoft's ActiveSync for over the air push Email.
ZCS comes in various flavours including an open source edition and they've stated this will continue to be the case even after the Yahoo purchase.
ZCS is a reasonable UN*X based competitor to Microsoft's Exchange, maybe Yahoo will give it the market distribution it deserves.
UK Apple iPhone deal announced
Steve Jobs was in Apple's UK Regent Street store to announce the deal with O2 for the iPhone which is going to be available on November 9th.
Suprisingly it's not a 3G phone, it will still only support E.D.G.E. as does the US variant. This will mean O2 have a lot of work to do to upgrade all their basestations to support E.D.G.E, though customers have reported that some cells are already showing E.D.G.E capability.
Pricing plans start at £35 per month for 200 minutes and 200 texts with unlimited data, this also gives unlimited WiFi access (via the Cloud). Higher rates give more voice minutes and texts.
Maybe the 16GB version will support 3G, which must be due soon ... giving Apple the ability to sell to the next generation of iPhone users and getting everyone who'se going to buy one at launch the opportunity to upgrade.
Suprisingly it's not a 3G phone, it will still only support E.D.G.E. as does the US variant. This will mean O2 have a lot of work to do to upgrade all their basestations to support E.D.G.E, though customers have reported that some cells are already showing E.D.G.E capability.
Pricing plans start at £35 per month for 200 minutes and 200 texts with unlimited data, this also gives unlimited WiFi access (via the Cloud). Higher rates give more voice minutes and texts.
Maybe the 16GB version will support 3G, which must be due soon ... giving Apple the ability to sell to the next generation of iPhone users and getting everyone who'se going to buy one at launch the opportunity to upgrade.
2007/09/14
Apple special event Sept 18th
Apple are inviting journalists to a special event on September the 18th.
Speculation is the announcement of the new European 3G iPhone and the EU partners (O2 in UK?).
Speculation is the announcement of the new European 3G iPhone and the EU partners (O2 in UK?).
2007/09/13
P2P GSM
A Swedish company TerraNet has developed a peer to peer GSM technology that can be built in to a standard handset.
This means that calls between TerraNet enabled handsets don't go through the normal GSM operators' networks, but directly between handsets.
Though range is limited between handsets (around 1Km), the system can mesh handsets and hop calls through multiple handsets. This is also true for connection to a standard GSM network, so if handset A is within range of a basestation it can relay calls through it and extend the distance.
Most countries are likely to prohibit P2P GSM as the operators' license covers the handsets as well (they transmit and receive radio communication, therefore each handset requires a license - under the UK regime anyway) and most operators aren't likely to support the technology as it's a very quick way to reduce their call revenue.
However in countries that have limited coverage, operators might encourage this use.
In the UK there is potentially a way forward as the low power GSM Guard Band licensees might well be able to offer this technology within their license which would be completely disruptive to the MNOs.
This means that calls between TerraNet enabled handsets don't go through the normal GSM operators' networks, but directly between handsets.
Though range is limited between handsets (around 1Km), the system can mesh handsets and hop calls through multiple handsets. This is also true for connection to a standard GSM network, so if handset A is within range of a basestation it can relay calls through it and extend the distance.
Most countries are likely to prohibit P2P GSM as the operators' license covers the handsets as well (they transmit and receive radio communication, therefore each handset requires a license - under the UK regime anyway) and most operators aren't likely to support the technology as it's a very quick way to reduce their call revenue.
However in countries that have limited coverage, operators might encourage this use.
In the UK there is potentially a way forward as the low power GSM Guard Band licensees might well be able to offer this technology within their license which would be completely disruptive to the MNOs.
2007/09/05
Apple releases new iPods
As expected Apple announced updated and new iPods.
The Shuffle gains new colours.
The Nano's are now fully metal and support video as well as things like CoverFlow.
iPod Classic is now all metal in 80GB and 160GB (and thinner than current models and with longer battery life), also with CoverFlow.
The new iPod Touch comes in 8GB and 16GB models and includes WiFi (basically an iPhone without the phone).
The 4GB iPhone has been dropped and the 8GB version reduced by $200 to $399.
Apple have also done a deal with Starbucks which allows buying of the last 10 played songs via in-store WiFi. It's not clear whether the iPod/Phone will be able to use WiFi for anything else though (without paying for it).
As the iPod Touch comes in a 16GB version, it's likely the iPhone will too at some point.
The Shuffle gains new colours.
The Nano's are now fully metal and support video as well as things like CoverFlow.
iPod Classic is now all metal in 80GB and 160GB (and thinner than current models and with longer battery life), also with CoverFlow.
The new iPod Touch comes in 8GB and 16GB models and includes WiFi (basically an iPhone without the phone).
The 4GB iPhone has been dropped and the 8GB version reduced by $200 to $399.
Apple have also done a deal with Starbucks which allows buying of the last 10 played songs via in-store WiFi. It's not clear whether the iPod/Phone will be able to use WiFi for anything else though (without paying for it).
As the iPod Touch comes in a 16GB version, it's likely the iPhone will too at some point.
2007/08/28
iPhone hacked
It looks like the iPhone can now work on non-ATandT SIMs.
However it also looks like Apple/ATandT may be getting their legal guns aimed and ready to fire on anyone offering software that will completely unlock the iPhone.
A UK company was going to sell software to unlock the iPhone, but a now rethinking after a call from ATandT lawayers at 3am UK time.
Though it would be fun to use an iPhone with a UK SIM, unless data rates drop considerably (though do-able on T-Mobile and 3) using an iPhone in the UK could prove a very costly business.
Better wait until O2 officially announce their deal with Apple for the UK and see what their pricing is.
However it also looks like Apple/ATandT may be getting their legal guns aimed and ready to fire on anyone offering software that will completely unlock the iPhone.
A UK company was going to sell software to unlock the iPhone, but a now rethinking after a call from ATandT lawayers at 3am UK time.
Though it would be fun to use an iPhone with a UK SIM, unless data rates drop considerably (though do-able on T-Mobile and 3) using an iPhone in the UK could prove a very costly business.
Better wait until O2 officially announce their deal with Apple for the UK and see what their pricing is.
Adobe updates Flash9 player
The updated player is available from Adobe Labs. It now supports H.264 video streaming which allows for HD content to be displayed (up to 1080p).
It's still a beta product, but Adobe is fending off other players.
It's still a beta product, but Adobe is fending off other players.
Microsoft Releases HD Photo plug-in for Photoshop CS2/3
Microsoft have released a HD Photo plug-in for Adobe's Photoshop CS2 and CS3. It's available for both Windows XP/Vista and Apple MacOS X (10.4) on both Intel and PowerPC.
Currently it's still beta, though it's expected to be the final version.
It was known as Windows Media HD, though MS have submitted it to JPEG and it should become JPEG XR (XR is short for "extended range). MS are allowing the technology to be used in a royalty free manner and will submit all specifications allowing anyone to implement the format on any platform in any language.
Currently it's still beta, though it's expected to be the final version.
It was known as Windows Media HD, though MS have submitted it to JPEG and it should become JPEG XR (XR is short for "extended range). MS are allowing the technology to be used in a royalty free manner and will submit all specifications allowing anyone to implement the format on any platform in any language.
Nikon announces D3 and D300
Nikon have announced the Nikon D3 Pro camera and D300 semi-pro (or prosumer) models. The D300 is based on the D series body, while the D3 is an upgrade to the D2.
The D3 has a 12.1 effective megapixel FX format (36.0-x-23.9mm) image sensor with 12-channel read out, a 9 fps frame rate, expandable ISO settings from 200-6400, a completely new 51-Point autofocus system, a three-inch VGA LCD screen with Live View (it shows what's being photographed, rather than just displaying saved photos). The camera supports CompactFlash cards and can support two simultaneously. Photos can be stored to both (mirrored, so there is always a back-up), photos can also be stored consequatively on both cards. A clever feature is that if the images are stored as both NEF (Nikon's raw format) and JPEG, NEF images can be stored on one card, and JPEG on the other.
The D300 has a 12.3 megapixel sensor, a 6fps frame advance, a self-cleaning sensor unit and high definition 3-inch VGA LCD display. It has a fast start-up (0.13s with a 45ms shutter lag). The sensor is self-cleaning (it vibrates to loosen dust) with an ISO range of 200-3200. The D300 also has an HDMI connector suitable for HD displays.
Both cameras use Nikon's new EXPEED processing chip which handles 14bit D/A with 16bit image processing.
The D300 with retail for around £1,100 plus VAT for the body only
The D3 has a 12.1 effective megapixel FX format (36.0-x-23.9mm) image sensor with 12-channel read out, a 9 fps frame rate, expandable ISO settings from 200-6400, a completely new 51-Point autofocus system, a three-inch VGA LCD screen with Live View (it shows what's being photographed, rather than just displaying saved photos). The camera supports CompactFlash cards and can support two simultaneously. Photos can be stored to both (mirrored, so there is always a back-up), photos can also be stored consequatively on both cards. A clever feature is that if the images are stored as both NEF (Nikon's raw format) and JPEG, NEF images can be stored on one card, and JPEG on the other.
The D300 has a 12.3 megapixel sensor, a 6fps frame advance, a self-cleaning sensor unit and high definition 3-inch VGA LCD display. It has a fast start-up (0.13s with a 45ms shutter lag). The sensor is self-cleaning (it vibrates to loosen dust) with an ISO range of 200-3200. The D300 also has an HDMI connector suitable for HD displays.
Both cameras use Nikon's new EXPEED processing chip which handles 14bit D/A with 16bit image processing.
The D300 with retail for around £1,100 plus VAT for the body only
2007/08/22
Number Availability | Ofcom
Number Availability | Ofcom
Ofcom are going to oen two new number ranges for Premium Rate Services (PRS): -
0902 for ’Special Services, time charged calls up to and including 60ppm and total call cost not greater then £5 or fixed fee up to £1 per call.
0903 for ‘Special Services, open ended time dependent charge or fixed fee up to £1.50 (open ended calls).
This is to increase the availability of number for PRS services.
Ofcom are going to oen two new number ranges for Premium Rate Services (PRS): -
0902 for ’Special Services, time charged calls up to and including 60ppm and total call cost not greater then £5 or fixed fee up to £1 per call.
0903 for ‘Special Services, open ended time dependent charge or fixed fee up to £1.50 (open ended calls).
This is to increase the availability of number for PRS services.
2007/08/09
Decision to make The Wireless Telegraphy (Ultra-Wideband Equipment) (Exemption) Regulations 2007 | Ofcom
Decision to make The Wireless Telegraphy (Ultra-Wideband Equipment) (Exemption) Regulations 2007 | Ofcom
Ofcom will allow the use of UWB (Ultra-Wideband) equipment from 13th August 2007 when the exemption regulations come into force.
This is in accordance with European directives.
Any equipment will have to meet the published requirements and spectral masks.
This is a good step forwards and should allow new equipment to come on the market such as wireless HDTV distribution for in-home use and wireless USB.
Ofcom will allow the use of UWB (Ultra-Wideband) equipment from 13th August 2007 when the exemption regulations come into force.
This is in accordance with European directives.
Any equipment will have to meet the published requirements and spectral masks.
This is a good step forwards and should allow new equipment to come on the market such as wireless HDTV distribution for in-home use and wireless USB.
2007/08/06
NOW up for sale
NOW the UK Wireless broadband operator from PCCW is up for sale. PCCW paid $14m for regional licenses which they are trying to convert to a single UK license (and to allow mobile use, which the licenses currently prohibit).
NOW have only 14,000 customers but losses of £23.3m. UK infrastructure is still expensive and providing a national network is unecomic unless there's huge scale involved or the company has a national network already.
Pipex was recently sold to Tiscali, though Pipex Wireless was excluded from the sale.
Both Pipex Wireless and NOW will compete for the same bidders.
BT has expressed an interested in the 2.5GHz spectrum, they may well make an offer for Pipex Wireless or NOW to gain their licenses.
NOW have only 14,000 customers but losses of £23.3m. UK infrastructure is still expensive and providing a national network is unecomic unless there's huge scale involved or the company has a national network already.
Pipex was recently sold to Tiscali, though Pipex Wireless was excluded from the sale.
Both Pipex Wireless and NOW will compete for the same bidders.
BT has expressed an interested in the 2.5GHz spectrum, they may well make an offer for Pipex Wireless or NOW to gain their licenses.
Virgin attracts Liberty Global
Liberty Global may join the battle for Virgin Media with a bid of £11bn.
BSkyB asked to delay the court case with Virgin Media re the Sky channels which Sky withdrew over pricing, which means it wont be heard until next year at the earliest. Normally Virgin Media would have pushed to have the case heard as early as possible so they get the channels back and stop losing customers.
Unfortunately an in-court case could delay any sale pending the outcome. It's much better for Virgin Media to delay the case and let a sale go through, then deal with BSkyB.
Unfortunatey it's bad news for customers who aren't likely to get their Sky content back for a year.
BSkyB asked to delay the court case with Virgin Media re the Sky channels which Sky withdrew over pricing, which means it wont be heard until next year at the earliest. Normally Virgin Media would have pushed to have the case heard as early as possible so they get the channels back and stop losing customers.
Unfortunately an in-court case could delay any sale pending the outcome. It's much better for Virgin Media to delay the case and let a sale go through, then deal with BSkyB.
Unfortunatey it's bad news for customers who aren't likely to get their Sky content back for a year.
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