Wireless

DSIT launches consultation on strategic priorities for telecoms and postal services

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has launched an open consultation on its proposed statement of strategic priorities for telecommunications, radio spectrum management, and postal services. The consultation invites views on strategic priorities for fixed and mobile digital infrastructure, spectrum management, telecoms consumer protection, security and resilience, and postal services.

DBT announces new powers to regulate online marketplaces under PRAM Act

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has announced that the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill has received Royal Assent, introducing new regulatory powers aimed at improving product safety standards across online marketplaces. The legislation responds to concerns about the sale of unsafe goods—particularly lithium-ion batteries linked to 211 reported fires in 2024 involving e-bikes and e-scooters—and seeks to align online platforms with the obligations placed on physical retailers. Under the Act, marketplaces will be required to take steps to prevent unsafe products from being listed, ensure sellers meet product safety requirements, provide clear information to consumers and cooperate with regulators. The measures form part of the government’s Plan for Change and are expected to affect approximately 300,000 UK businesses operating in regulated product markets, with a combined turnover of £490bn.

Dutch news outlets form new collective for licensing AI training

MLex: A group of Dutch news media outlets has formed the country's first national collective database to be licensed for training artificial intelligence, a move which aims to avoid them having to sue AI companies for copyright violations or pursue exclusive licensing agreements with them.

Ofcom consultation proposes 14 TV platforms for Media Act designation

Ofcom has launched a consultation regarding its draft report to the Secretary of State on the designation of Television Selection Services (TSS) under the Media Act. The regulator proposes designating 14 connected TV platforms that meet a minimum threshold of 700,000 active users, including major platforms such as Amazon Fire TV OS, Android TV and Sky Entertainment OS. The consultation, which closes on 16 September 2025, outlines recommendations for ensuring public service broadcasting content remains accessible and prominent on designated platforms. The proposals would apply to current versions of TSS platforms as of July 2025 and subsequent updates.