With ever-expanding demand for spectrum, and a (physics-constrained) finite amount available, there is increasing pressure for users to share spectrum holdings via a variety of different methods – geographic, temporal, or dynamic. In most cases this is achieved through the identification of primary and secondary uses and users. With this sharing paradigm, however, there is[…]
These last few years, the European Commission has made various proposals to institute network fees in one form or another, but these were rejected by both digital market stakeholders and the European Council. In its latest consultation on the Digital Networks Act, the Commission puts forward a proposal to mandate dispute resolutions to IP Interconnection[…]
Open source practices in Gen AI are reshaping economies, and influencing competition, societal and political dynamics. Plum Consulting’s paper examines the dual nature of these practices, highlighting opportunities alongside challenges for policymakers and companies on that matter.
Increasing difficulties with time-critical non-terrestrial communications, submarine connectivity damage, just-in-time manufacturing dependencies and delivery logistics have all been issues of concern over the last year. International political and geographic events have required companies and individuals the world over to adjust processes and expectations on the speed and quality of manufacturing and information flows. A Plum[…]
Since its launch in 2021, Starlink has quickly gained global traction, expanding rapidly and attracting a growing user base across 105 countries. Many countries have welcomed Starlink as a promising solution to bridge the digital divide, bringing high-speed internet to remote and underserved areas. Yet not all governments have embraced it; some have indeed resisted[…]
The UK Competitive Telecoms Association (UKCTA) asked Plum to examine regulation in competitive electronic communications markets in the UK. In our report for UKCTA, we discuss the efficacy of some regulatory requirements, and suggest a review to ensure that regulation in competitive markets remains effective, proportionate, and consistent with the Government’s objective for economic growth.[…]
In the white paper “How to Master Europe’s Infrastructure Needs”, published in February 2024, the European Commission presented its views on the future of connectivity and potential implications for European telecommunication policy. The Ministry of Economic Affairs in the Netherlands commissioned Plum and our partners for this project, Stratix, to analyse and explain the underlying[…]
Wi-Fi® plays a crucial role in the distribution of fixed broadband connectivity in homes, offices, and various other environments. The vast majority (up to 92%) of home internet traffic is connected to the end-user through Wi-Fi. In enterprise settings, Wi-Fi is essential for handling the large amounts of data and simultaneously connecting large number devices[…]
Satellite broadband technology was once seen as the domain of remote outposts, maritime communications and specialised industries. In the past few years, convergence of cutting-edge advancements in satellite technology, reduced space launch costs, and new business models has increased the profile of satellite technology in the connectivity ecosystem. Satellite broadband is now considered a viable[…]
The European Commission’s White Paper “How to master Europe’s digital infrastructure needs?” makes radical proposals to expand both the reach and the depth of the European Electronic Communications Code to many new players in the broader Internet ecosystem. This report analyses the context of these proposals, how the Commission justifies them, who they might affect[…]