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Telecoms News
The UK government is exploring new funding packages to expand satellite broadband in rural communities. Ministers say the move is aimed at closing the digital divide in areas where fibre rollout remains slow or uneconomic. Satellite technology can provide faster connections without the need for extensive cabling, offering a quicker route to improved coverage. While not a replacement for full fibre, officials see it as a vital tool to ensure all households and businesses have access to reliable internet. Government Looks to Satellite Broadband for Rural Areas
Our Thoughts: Satellite broadband won’t replace fibre, but it can be a lifeline for rural firms left behind by slow rollouts. It’s a reminder for businesses in remote areas to keep an eye on new connectivity options as they become available. Speed and reliability may not match fibre, but for critical operations it could bridge the gap until faster lines arrive. Any investment in digital inclusion is good news, ensuring businesses of all sizes can compete on a level playing field.
Openreach Warns of Rollout Risks Amid Competition Rules BT’s Openreach has warned that its goal to connect 30 million UK homes with full-fibre broadband by 2030 may be at risk unless Ofcom eases restrictions limiting its dominance. The regulator, keen to foster competition, plans to uphold these price controls and access limitations through at least 2031. Openreach argues this curbs its investment ability, particularly in areas with strong competitors, while Ofcom counters that the protections have helped drive fibre rollout forward. Our Thoughts:
The debate between investment and competition is a fine balance. For businesses, the key takeaway is that full fibre rollout remains on track for now, but policy decisions could affect how quickly coverage expands in different regions. This means some areas may still face patchy progress, especially where rival networks are active. Firms should keep pressure on providers to ensure they’re not left behind as the UK pushes towards 100% gigabit coverage.
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