This is the first review of the framework since the last major reforms in 2009, and the EC noted that the market has undergone significant structural changes since then. Some of the notable issues are a slow transition from copper to fibre, more complex competition with the convergence of fixed and mobile networks, the rise of retail bundles, the emergence of new online players (so called OTTs), and changing end-user expectations and requirements, including an explosion in demand for wireless data. The review centres on the issues of spectrum management, network access regulation, universal services and telecoms governance.
The EC also published the first results of a consultation held at the same time on expected broadband needs. Well over 1,500 responses were received, and many said that their needs in terms of internet speed and quality are not fulfilled. They also expect the use of internet services and applications to increase dramatically by 2025 and called for policy measures to support the development of infrastructure in line with future needs. The consultation sought views on topics including how EU rules could incentivise network roll-out, on spectrum management, on the role of universal service rules and institutional set-up and governance.
