European operators want tech firms to help fund 5G and fibre rollouts
Chief executives want big tech companies to contribute their fair share
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Several of Europe’s largest telecommunications firms have called for large technology companies to contribute to the cost of rolling out fibre and 5G across the continent, arguing that the current situation is unsustainable.
Although next generation networks offer significant opportunities for operators to increase revenues through faster speeds and new services – particularly in the business market – there is increasing dissatisfaction among operators about the present situation.
They argue that services such as Netflix, Facebook, andYouTubebenefit greatly from investments in network infrastructure without sharing the associated risk, effort, and expense of construction.
European operators
Furthermore, they believe it is these services that are driving huge growth in network traffic that makes such upgrades necessary.
In a letter signed by the chief executives of Telefonica, Orange, KPN, BT, Telekom Austria, Vivacom, Proximus, Telenor, Altice Portugal, Telia and Swisscom seen by Reuters, they said:
“A large and increasing part of network traffic is generated and monetized by big tech platforms, but it requires continuous, intensive network investment and planning by the telecommunications sector.
“This model – which enables EU citizens to enjoy the fruits of the digital transformation – can only be sustainable if such big tech platforms also contribute fairly to network costs.”
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
The letter also criticises the high cost of spectrum auctions and plans by the EU to scrap charges on calls made between member states, arguing both measures also restrict their abilities to invest in networks.
Earlier this month, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica, TIM and Vodafone urged EU policymakers to helpfund developments in OpenRAN R&D and testingand to incentivise supply chain diversity by lowering the barriers to entry.
ViaReuters
If you’re looking for a new phone then you should check out ourbest 5G mobile phone deals
Steve McCaskill is TechRadar Pro’s resident mobile industry expert, covering all aspects of the UK and global news, from operators to service providers and everything in between. He is a former editor of Silicon UK and journalist with over a decade’s experience in the technology industry, writing about technology, in particular, telecoms, mobile and sports tech, sports, video games and media.
TP-Link Archer BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Router review
Ulefone Armor Pad 3 Pro rugged tablet review
Smeg Combi Steam Oven review: a multi-functional countertop oven that looks stunning and cooks well
