Assuming there are no regulatory complaints, Vodafone may announce the acquisition of T-Mobile UK by next week. Deutsch Telecom may agree to the purchase if Vodafone swaps their Turkish network.
Ofcom recently released 3G coverage in the UK showing that O2 and Vodafone lagged behind 3, Orange and T-Mobile so a joint Vodafone/T-Mobile network would significantly increase their coverage and give them 40% of the UK market.
It is likely that other operators will shout unfair so the will be delays due to regulatory intervention.
2009/07/09
Chrome OS the notebook challenger
Google has announced Chrome OS and new Linux based operating system with a the Chrome browser which will be targeted at netbooks.
Netbooks are already using Linux, but Google's entry into the fray will certainly threaten other Linux variants and make Microsoft's life more difficult. By owning the desktop, Google gain the user's entry to the Interweb, which makes Google apps easily available removing the reliance on desktop applications. Since Chrome supports Google GEARS, Google apps can continue to operate when the system is offline.
Google say Chrome and Android are different and come out of different teams. Android is optimised for mobile devices and has the issue of having a mobile stack to contend with while Chrome is optimised as a desktop system with the browser as the main driver.
It's likely that Google (with zero licensing costs) will be able to gain a large foothold reasonably quickly and drive users to their on-line apps which is the motivation for the OS.
It seems the industry also likes the effort and there seems to be widespread support from chip manufacturers like ARM, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments etc.
Netbooks are already using Linux, but Google's entry into the fray will certainly threaten other Linux variants and make Microsoft's life more difficult. By owning the desktop, Google gain the user's entry to the Interweb, which makes Google apps easily available removing the reliance on desktop applications. Since Chrome supports Google GEARS, Google apps can continue to operate when the system is offline.
Google say Chrome and Android are different and come out of different teams. Android is optimised for mobile devices and has the issue of having a mobile stack to contend with while Chrome is optimised as a desktop system with the browser as the main driver.
It's likely that Google (with zero licensing costs) will be able to gain a large foothold reasonably quickly and drive users to their on-line apps which is the motivation for the OS.
It seems the industry also likes the effort and there seems to be widespread support from chip manufacturers like ARM, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments etc.
A Three-digit Number for Non-Emergency Healthcare Services | Ofcom
A Three-digit Number for Non-Emergency Healthcare Services | Ofcom
Ofcom is holding a consultation on the introduction of a 3 digit code, 111, for non-essential health care services.
A user dialing 111 will be directed to their local health service. The service is planned to be piloted in 2010 and rolled out nationally (in England) after that.
The consultation closes on 28 August 2009.
Ofcom is holding a consultation on the introduction of a 3 digit code, 111, for non-essential health care services.
A user dialing 111 will be directed to their local health service. The service is planned to be piloted in 2010 and rolled out nationally (in England) after that.
The consultation closes on 28 August 2009.
2009/07/08
RIM doubles applications to 2000
RIM have doubled the number of apps in their App World to 2,000 which still compares poorly to Apple who have over 50,000.
Though App World is relatively easy to use it's not as easy (or pretty) as Apple app store.
RIM has declined to give figures on the number of downloads from App World.
Though App World is relatively easy to use it's not as easy (or pretty) as Apple app store.
RIM has declined to give figures on the number of downloads from App World.
Phorm given the boot
Following on the BT's announcement that they were delaying the implementation of Phorm the targeted advertising system, TalkTalk announced they were dropping it all together. Virgin Media is considering Phorm and other systems but has not yet decided on a system to install. Phorm's share price fell 20 201p on the news.
Phorm works by snooping users' traffic and working out what sites they visit, then delivering targeted ads to those users based on their viewing habits. Phorm purchase they advertising space on remote sites and insert their ads.
Phorm has been criticised from privacy groups and there has been a bit of a public backlash.
Phorm is now concentrating on other markets such as Korea where it says trials are going well.
UK users may breath a sigh of relief, at least for a while in terms of Phorm.
Phorm works by snooping users' traffic and working out what sites they visit, then delivering targeted ads to those users based on their viewing habits. Phorm purchase they advertising space on remote sites and insert their ads.
Phorm has been criticised from privacy groups and there has been a bit of a public backlash.
Phorm is now concentrating on other markets such as Korea where it says trials are going well.
UK users may breath a sigh of relief, at least for a while in terms of Phorm.
Consumer Protection Test for telephone number allocation | Ofcom
Consumer Protection Test for telephone number allocation | Ofcom
Ofcom have updated the Consumer Protection Test lists which consist of the "Under Assessment" and "Nu mber refusal" lists.
Ofcom will not issue numbers in the ranges which are considered premium rate services (070 personal numbers, 0871/2/3 special service higher rate numbers and 09 premium rate numbers), these are all governed by PhonePayPlus.
Any telephony provider should check these lists before allocating numbers and ensure that people or companies on the list are not obtaining number services through them.
The lists are available as Adobe PDF files from the Ofcom site.
Ofcom have updated the Consumer Protection Test lists which consist of the "Under Assessment" and "Nu mber refusal" lists.
Ofcom will not issue numbers in the ranges which are considered premium rate services (070 personal numbers, 0871/2/3 special service higher rate numbers and 09 premium rate numbers), these are all governed by PhonePayPlus.
Any telephony provider should check these lists before allocating numbers and ensure that people or companies on the list are not obtaining number services through them.
The lists are available as Adobe PDF files from the Ofcom site.
2009/07/03
Digital dividend: clearing the 800 MHz band | Ofcom
Digital dividend: clearing the 800 MHz band | Ofcom
Ofcom is planning ot clear the 800MHz band (also known as 790-862 MHz, channels 61 to 69 in UHF Bands IV and V) of existing and previously planned users and align the upper band of the UK’s digital dividend with the spectrum being identified for release by an increasing number of other European countries.
It also sets out the high level principles for how Ofcom intend to clear those existing and previously planned users – digital terrestrial television (DTT) and programme-making and special events (PMSE) – from channels 61, 62 and 69.
Ofcom is re-aligning the spectrum as other countries in Europe are clearing the spectrum for auction as the spectrum can be optimally used by wireless broadband operators.
The new use maximises the value to society as UK Plc.
Ofcom is planning ot clear the 800MHz band (also known as 790-862 MHz, channels 61 to 69 in UHF Bands IV and V) of existing and previously planned users and align the upper band of the UK’s digital dividend with the spectrum being identified for release by an increasing number of other European countries.
It also sets out the high level principles for how Ofcom intend to clear those existing and previously planned users – digital terrestrial television (DTT) and programme-making and special events (PMSE) – from channels 61, 62 and 69.
Ofcom is re-aligning the spectrum as other countries in Europe are clearing the spectrum for auction as the spectrum can be optimally used by wireless broadband operators.
The new use maximises the value to society as UK Plc.
Notice of Ofcom’s proposal to make the Wireless Telegraphy (Ultra-Wideband Equipment) (Exemption) Regulations 2009 | Ofcom
Notice of Ofcom’s proposal to make the Wireless Telegraphy (Ultra-Wideband Equipment) (Exemption) Regulations 2009 | Ofcom
Ofcom is consulting on introducing new legislation on the license exempt use for Ultra Wideband (UWB) in accordance with European Commission Decision of 21 April 2009 (2009/343/EC) (the “UWB Amendment Decision”).
Ofcom will overturn previous legislation and introduce a new Statutory Instrument.
The consultation closes on 04/08/09.
Ofcom is consulting on introducing new legislation on the license exempt use for Ultra Wideband (UWB) in accordance with European Commission Decision of 21 April 2009 (2009/343/EC) (the “UWB Amendment Decision”).
Ofcom will overturn previous legislation and introduce a new Statutory Instrument.
The consultation closes on 04/08/09.
2009/06/29
Vodafone to buy T-Mobile?
Vodafone has 25% of the UK market, T-Mobile only has 15% but a combined company would have 40% of the market which is way ahead of O2 the current leader with 27%.
This would still require regulatory approval and the other networks would no doubt cry foul play, though Vodafone would be unlikely be considered a monopoly unless their market share rose considerably.
Though this could be seen as a bad thing for the market as competition would be reduced, it would give Vodafone economies of scale as they could improve coverage by merging physical networks and removing duplicate coverage while increasing coverage in areas that are poorly covered now. They could also increase capacity within the network allowing for high speed data services.
T-Mobile (Germany) may not wish to part with the UK arm at the moment as the valuation will be low in the current market conditions.
This would still require regulatory approval and the other networks would no doubt cry foul play, though Vodafone would be unlikely be considered a monopoly unless their market share rose considerably.
Though this could be seen as a bad thing for the market as competition would be reduced, it would give Vodafone economies of scale as they could improve coverage by merging physical networks and removing duplicate coverage while increasing coverage in areas that are poorly covered now. They could also increase capacity within the network allowing for high speed data services.
T-Mobile (Germany) may not wish to part with the UK arm at the moment as the valuation will be low in the current market conditions.
Apple gets more of an Imagination
Apple has followed on Intel's heals and taken a 9.5% stake in UK graphics chip designer Imagination (Intel have a 14% stake).
Intel are keen on leading the Mobile Internet Device (MID) market and have recently made public announcements with Nokia. Apple meanwhile are utilising Imagination's PowerVR chips on the new i{Phone 3GS (they used their older chips in the iPhone 3G and iTouch models). This with their purchase of PA Semi means they could well be developing low power ARM chips and PowerVR cores for new ranges of iPhones/iTouch's coming out next year. They could also utilise the chips in their rumoured tablet which is also expected next year.
If Apple do release a tablet, it looks like they'll ignore the notebook market.
Intel are keen on leading the Mobile Internet Device (MID) market and have recently made public announcements with Nokia. Apple meanwhile are utilising Imagination's PowerVR chips on the new i{Phone 3GS (they used their older chips in the iPhone 3G and iTouch models). This with their purchase of PA Semi means they could well be developing low power ARM chips and PowerVR cores for new ranges of iPhones/iTouch's coming out next year. They could also utilise the chips in their rumoured tablet which is also expected next year.
If Apple do release a tablet, it looks like they'll ignore the notebook market.
2009/06/28
Michael Jackson Flashmob at Liverpool St station
On Friday 26th of June 2009 there was a Michael Jackson Flashmob moonwalk.
It all started on Twitter when Milo Yiannopoulos picked up on a tweet where Rob Manuel of b3ta mentioned that a Michael Jackson flashmob should happen. Milo took it upon himself to make it so.
The flashmob was meant to start at 6, but myself and the lovely Gail Porter arrived at just after 5 to see if we could help out. Gail had retweeted the event to her 14,358 followers.
Though City of London Police weren't too bother, British Transport Police didn't seem to pleased at the thought of hundreds or thousands descending on Liverpool St station. They started taping off the top section of the station and speaking to Milo downstairs it soon became apparent that if any kind of crowd started to gather, they'd start arresting people.
Quick re-arrangements meant relocating outside to Liverpool St and the City of London Police being extremely co-operative (and so unlike earlier G20 events), it was a hot sunny day and many seemed to be "up for it". The sounds system was moved from outside MacDonald's (where a crowd of a couple of hundred people had started to gather) to the opposite side of the street in-front of a tanning salon.
It took a while getting all the kit across (Liverpool St was by now filling up, the Police had blocked access to cars) and suddenly it dawned on everyone that it was actually happening.
Though it's difficult to say how many people were there, it seemed like several thousand (Liverpool St was rammed from the Broadgate end to beyond the station). Milo introduced the event and managed to get 3 Jacko songs in before the Police called it a day. Though the event was meant to be a mass moonwalk, it was a bit packed for much to actually take place.
Everyone seemed to have a great time and special thanks must go to London Speaker Hire for getting the sound system there.
It all started on Twitter when Milo Yiannopoulos picked up on a tweet where Rob Manuel of b3ta mentioned that a Michael Jackson flashmob should happen. Milo took it upon himself to make it so.
The flashmob was meant to start at 6, but myself and the lovely Gail Porter arrived at just after 5 to see if we could help out. Gail had retweeted the event to her 14,358 followers.
Though City of London Police weren't too bother, British Transport Police didn't seem to pleased at the thought of hundreds or thousands descending on Liverpool St station. They started taping off the top section of the station and speaking to Milo downstairs it soon became apparent that if any kind of crowd started to gather, they'd start arresting people.
Quick re-arrangements meant relocating outside to Liverpool St and the City of London Police being extremely co-operative (and so unlike earlier G20 events), it was a hot sunny day and many seemed to be "up for it". The sounds system was moved from outside MacDonald's (where a crowd of a couple of hundred people had started to gather) to the opposite side of the street in-front of a tanning salon.
It took a while getting all the kit across (Liverpool St was by now filling up, the Police had blocked access to cars) and suddenly it dawned on everyone that it was actually happening.
Though it's difficult to say how many people were there, it seemed like several thousand (Liverpool St was rammed from the Broadgate end to beyond the station). Milo introduced the event and managed to get 3 Jacko songs in before the Police called it a day. Though the event was meant to be a mass moonwalk, it was a bit packed for much to actually take place.
Everyone seemed to have a great time and special thanks must go to London Speaker Hire for getting the sound system there.
The Europas: Best European / Real World Gadget (EMEA)
The Europas: Best European / Real World Gadget (EMEA)
Please vote for En-Twyn in the TechCrunch Europas. En-Twyn have designed a mains socket combined with Powerline electronics that is in the process of going to manufacture.
The initial version is based on a UK double gang socket with 2 Ethernet (switched) ports and an LCD display which is used to show the status of the system (i.e. sync, Ethernet activity, link state etc).
More information is available from their TechCrunch entry".
Future versions will carry multiple media types (audio, video, etc) and have an embedded Linux controller allowing Quality of Service and a remotely controllable architechture (including being able to monitor socket power usage and being able to turn off power to the sockets).
Do please vote.
Please vote for En-Twyn in the TechCrunch Europas. En-Twyn have designed a mains socket combined with Powerline electronics that is in the process of going to manufacture.
The initial version is based on a UK double gang socket with 2 Ethernet (switched) ports and an LCD display which is used to show the status of the system (i.e. sync, Ethernet activity, link state etc).
More information is available from their TechCrunch entry".
Future versions will carry multiple media types (audio, video, etc) and have an embedded Linux controller allowing Quality of Service and a remotely controllable architechture (including being able to monitor socket power usage and being able to turn off power to the sockets).
Do please vote.
2009/06/23
2.6GHz auction scrapped
Ofcom has decided to withdraw it's intent to auction the 2.6GHz band (part of the IMT-2000 spectrum). Various mobile operators had disputed Ofcom's right to auction the spectrum and had taken them to court (mainly as part of the 900MHz refarming arguments).
Ofcom changed made this decision based on the Government's Digital Britain report, which accepted the recommendations of the independent spectrum broker (ISB) which tied the 2.6GHz auction to the 800MHz auction (which becomes available after the digital switch-over).
This will delay the auction until after 2010.
Ofcom changed made this decision based on the Government's Digital Britain report, which accepted the recommendations of the independent spectrum broker (ISB) which tied the 2.6GHz auction to the 800MHz auction (which becomes available after the digital switch-over).
This will delay the auction until after 2010.
2009/06/22
T-Mobile to launch HTC MyTouch
T-Mobile are going to launch their second Android phone the HTC MyTouch which to everyone else is the HTC Magic (as sold by Vodafone).
In the US it will cost $199 with a 2 year contract.
Not too exciting really.
In the US it will cost $199 with a 2 year contract.
Not too exciting really.
Notification under Section 107(6) of the Communications Act 2003 - Airwave Solutions Limited | Ofcom
Notification under Section 107(6) of the Communications Act 2003 - Airwave Solutions Limited | Ofcom
Airwave Solutions Ltd run the digital mobile network for the emergency services (and other organisations with a public safety remit. Anyone wishing to use Airwave's network must go through Ofcom and demonstrate their public safety element.
Ofcom now wish to amend this so that The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralmypic Games can utilise the network for the 2012 Olympics.
The consultation closes on 20th July 2009.
Airwave Solutions Ltd run the digital mobile network for the emergency services (and other organisations with a public safety remit. Anyone wishing to use Airwave's network must go through Ofcom and demonstrate their public safety element.
Ofcom now wish to amend this so that The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralmypic Games can utilise the network for the 2012 Olympics.
The consultation closes on 20th July 2009.
2009/06/17
Stop hitting F5, iPhone OS 3.0 release still hours away?
Stop hitting F5, iPhone OS 3.0 release still hours away?
Apple may release the iPhone OS v3 at 6pm today UK time, the update should also be available as a chargable item for the iPod Touch.
v3 (on the iPhone) should allow MMS, cut and paste, tethering and the background push notification service as well as many new API calls.
Time will tell if Apple have got it right and if sales will match previous iPhone hype and store rushes.
Apple may release the iPhone OS v3 at 6pm today UK time, the update should also be available as a chargable item for the iPod Touch.
v3 (on the iPhone) should allow MMS, cut and paste, tethering and the background push notification service as well as many new API calls.
Time will tell if Apple have got it right and if sales will match previous iPhone hype and store rushes.
2009/06/13
Freedom4 application for licence variation | Ofcom
Freedom4 application for licence variation | Ofcom
Freedom4 are a WiMAX operator in the UK who offer wireless broadband (they are owned by the Hong Kong giant PCCW).
Freedom4 operate in the bands 3.6 - 4.2 GHz and currently can only offer fixed services, they have applied to Ofcom to a) increase the power limits of their basestations (i.e. main transmitter hubs) and also allow mobile access (which removes the obligation to register end-user / low-power terminals).
Ofcom's view is that the in-band power level can increase from +14dBW/MHz to +23dBW/MHz (+53dBm/MHz) for central stations and to remove the absolute limit of 22dBW/MHz (EIRP).
For terminal stations coordination should not be necessary for those with a spectral density not exceeding 25dBm/MHz and total EIRP not exceeding 30dBm unless a proposed central station is within 100MHz and 2km of a point-to-point link.
These changes should be made as soon is possible.
Ofcom is holding a consultation for interested stakeholders which closes on 20|07|2009.
Freedom4 are a WiMAX operator in the UK who offer wireless broadband (they are owned by the Hong Kong giant PCCW).
Freedom4 operate in the bands 3.6 - 4.2 GHz and currently can only offer fixed services, they have applied to Ofcom to a) increase the power limits of their basestations (i.e. main transmitter hubs) and also allow mobile access (which removes the obligation to register end-user / low-power terminals).
Ofcom's view is that the in-band power level can increase from +14dBW/MHz to +23dBW/MHz (+53dBm/MHz) for central stations and to remove the absolute limit of 22dBW/MHz (EIRP).
For terminal stations coordination should not be necessary for those with a spectral density not exceeding 25dBm/MHz and total EIRP not exceeding 30dBm unless a proposed central station is within 100MHz and 2km of a point-to-point link.
These changes should be made as soon is possible.
Ofcom is holding a consultation for interested stakeholders which closes on 20|07|2009.
2009/06/12
Managing the spectrum above 275 GHz | Ofcom
Managing the spectrum above 275 GHz | Ofcom: "275-3000 GHz"
Ofcom is going to make spectrum in the 275-3000 GHz band license exempt, however not all the band is being released as there are already a few licensed users there such as user in the scientific community (radio-astronomy, space research and earth exploration satellite services). The band is also used for short range anti-collision radar devices and detection of skin cancer.
The band is highly attenuated in air (oxygen and water molecules) and usually highly directional aerials are used, so risk of interference is very low.
The band will not be released until after the 2011 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-11) where international policy is made and it would be premature for Ofcom to release the spectrum before the conference.
This band can be used for low power short range high bandwidth services (i.e. for in-building wireless connectivity).
Ofcom is going to make spectrum in the 275-3000 GHz band license exempt, however not all the band is being released as there are already a few licensed users there such as user in the scientific community (radio-astronomy, space research and earth exploration satellite services). The band is also used for short range anti-collision radar devices and detection of skin cancer.
The band is highly attenuated in air (oxygen and water molecules) and usually highly directional aerials are used, so risk of interference is very low.
The band will not be released until after the 2011 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-11) where international policy is made and it would be premature for Ofcom to release the spectrum before the conference.
This band can be used for low power short range high bandwidth services (i.e. for in-building wireless connectivity).
Variation to BT’s Undertakings under the Enterprise Act 2002 related to Fibre-to-the-Cabinet | Ofcom
Variation to BT’s Undertakings under the Enterprise Act 2002 related to Fibre-to-the-Cabinet | Ofcom
BT has been granted a variation to its undertakings allowing Openreach to control and operate electronic equipment in the street cabinet.
This means that BT will install Fibre to the Street Cabinet (FTTC) and then place DSL Multiplexors in the cabinets. Since the cabinets are usually close to the premises they are serving (in urban environments at least) this will allow BT to offer VDSL2 (and variants) to end users offering 100Mb/s type download speeds.
This will still require major investment from BT and they will also have to provide equal access to other operators but if it all goes ahead will allow high speed Internet to homes providing IPTV (Internet TV), Video on demand and other services. BT Vision might stand a chance of success, though BSkyB will be watching this very carefully (and they'll also likely offer an IPTV service).
Unfortunately this again increases the digital divide as rural areas will still suffer as services such as VDSL2 only work at high speed with sub 100m connections and street cabinets in rural areas may be miles away from premises. This is one reason BT is looking towards wireless and potentially the 2.6GHz spectrum that will be up for auction later this year or next year.
BT has been granted a variation to its undertakings allowing Openreach to control and operate electronic equipment in the street cabinet.
This means that BT will install Fibre to the Street Cabinet (FTTC) and then place DSL Multiplexors in the cabinets. Since the cabinets are usually close to the premises they are serving (in urban environments at least) this will allow BT to offer VDSL2 (and variants) to end users offering 100Mb/s type download speeds.
This will still require major investment from BT and they will also have to provide equal access to other operators but if it all goes ahead will allow high speed Internet to homes providing IPTV (Internet TV), Video on demand and other services. BT Vision might stand a chance of success, though BSkyB will be watching this very carefully (and they'll also likely offer an IPTV service).
Unfortunately this again increases the digital divide as rural areas will still suffer as services such as VDSL2 only work at high speed with sub 100m connections and street cabinets in rural areas may be miles away from premises. This is one reason BT is looking towards wireless and potentially the 2.6GHz spectrum that will be up for auction later this year or next year.
Channel 5 set for licence for high definition programmes on digital terrestrial television | Ofcom
Channel 5 set for licence for high definition programmes on digital terrestrial television | Ofcom
Channel 5 has been awarded a license to broadcast in High Definition (HD) on Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) after the digital switch-over in 2010.
Channel 5 joins the BBC, the Channel 3 licensees (ITV, stv and UTV), and Channel 4 and S4C who have already been granted licenses.
Granada will be the first region to completely switch-over to DTT in 2009 and some HD content will be available at this time, other regions will switch-over by 2012.
Channel 5 will show programmes such as The Gadget Show, UEFA Europa League, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and blockbuster movie premiers which could become available in HD from late 2010.
This still means probable new Freeview boxes with MPEG-4 support.
Channel 5 has been awarded a license to broadcast in High Definition (HD) on Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) after the digital switch-over in 2010.
Channel 5 joins the BBC, the Channel 3 licensees (ITV, stv and UTV), and Channel 4 and S4C who have already been granted licenses.
Granada will be the first region to completely switch-over to DTT in 2009 and some HD content will be available at this time, other regions will switch-over by 2012.
Channel 5 will show programmes such as The Gadget Show, UEFA Europa League, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and blockbuster movie premiers which could become available in HD from late 2010.
This still means probable new Freeview boxes with MPEG-4 support.
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