The European Commission (EC) has developed a new proposal aimed at modernising and simplifying rules on connectivity networks in the European bloc. The Digital Networks Act (DNA) also aims to create the right conditions for operators to invest in fibre and mobile connectivity.
EC stated the DNA aims to create an effective European Union (EU) single market by harmonising rules and facilitate cross-border business, with several steps outlined to achieve its aims.
Measures include: allowing companies to provide services across the EU after registering in only one member state; incentivising the creation of pan-European satellite communications services by establishing an EU-level spectrum authorisation framework rather than a national one; easing spectrum rules around licence length and sharing; and boosting cooperation between operators and content applications and cloud providers.
Another major facet of the DNA proposes a mandatory national transition plan to ensure the phase out of copper networks and move to advanced networks between 2030 and 2035, with countries required to present plans in 2029.
It also outlined measures to simplify regulatory frameworks and enhance network security by tackling rising risks of natural disasters and foreign intervention in networks. On the 20th of January, the EC proposed phasing out equipment from high-risk vendors from network infrastructure.
Henna Virkkunen, EVP for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy at the authority said “high-performance resilient digital infrastructure is essential in strengthening Europe’s leadership in innovation, competitiveness and digital sovereignty”.
EC’s DNA will now be presented to the European Parliament and Council for approval.
Struggles
In response to the DNA, Laszlo Toth, head of Europe at industry association the GSMA argued Europe’s ability to compete in the digital age “will unfortunately not be turbocharged” by the proposal.
“While the ambition of the approach to spectrum licensing is welcome, ultimately this is not matched across the rest of the proposals. This would leave the connectivity industry continuing to struggle to secure the investment needed to underpin the continent’s growth, innovation and security”.
Source: Mobile World Live
Image Credit: Stock Image
