The Digital Connectivity Forum (DCF), an industry think-tank advising the UK government, has released a report looking into the future requirements and adoption of advanced broadband technologies in the UK. 

The report, “Advanced Connectivity: FTTP Take-up Research,” looked into the take-up, and potential use cases of full fibre broadband and 5G mobile networks to identify key barriers to adoption. 

As the UK continues to advance its digital infrastructure, the DCF’s report serves as a roadmap for maximising the potential of advanced broadband technologies.

According to the report, approximately 81.5% of UK premises have access to gigabit-capable broadband, with a slightly lower percentage for Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) technology alone.

Despite the increasing availability of high-speed broadband, the report highlights challenges in driving uptake, including a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of FTTP and perceived irrelevance among consumers.

To address these issues, the report suggests the implementation of an independent website offering clear explanations of broadband technologies to empower end-users to make informed decisions.

Moreover, the report identifies compelling use cases for 5G SA and FTTP connectivity across critical sectors such as agriculture, transport, healthcare, and manufacturing. These include applications like virtual coupling of trains, connected ambulances, and advanced agricultural techniques. 

The report also advocates for increased trialling of advanced connectivity solutions and proactive government promotion to address regulatory, operational, and safety challenges.

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“As the rollout of gigabit-capable fixed connectivity accelerates, and 5G standalone rollout gets underway, the importance of ensuring that all parts of the UK society and economy understand and benefit from these transformational forms of connectivity has never been greater,” said Alex Mather, head of the Digital Connectivity Forum.

He added: “The report shows better understanding and awareness of advanced broadband technologies is essential in enabling the nation to reap the full benefits of these forms of connectivity.

“We look forward to working with industry as well as government and regulatory stakeholders, to bring these uses into reality.”