Business, Technical Regulatory Challenges from the Current Development of Third Generation (3G) Communications in Europe

摘要

The proposed paper intends to investigate some among the major technical, financial, business and regulatory challenges associated with the effective evolution of third generation (3G) networks and services, in particular to fulfil the great expectations and 3G's significant potential in building the EU Information Society. The paper aims to illustrate particular information relevant to the current state of play for 3G communications in Europe, with specific emphasis given to the underlying technology and standardization options both for network and terminal equipment, thus enabling a wider sector development. Furthermore, commercially viable advanced wireless systems can be an indispensable contribution to the various goals set out by the EU, to achieve a knowledge-based economy in terms of consumer demand, productivity, competitiveness and job creation, following specific targets towards realising an Information Society for All. The paper also investigates various aspects for the deployment and the exploitation of the relevant market(s), by indicating the strong potential emerging from the current recovery of the ICT sector. In addition, the work discusses recent perspectives due to the establishment of the new EU regulatory framework, to support innovation and competition. Finally, the article identifies some important issues related to the use of radio spectrum & the effective roll-out of 3G infrastructure, and points out probable lines of action.