POLICIES :: eCommunications :: Electronic communications services
Electronic access: anytime, anywhere
Electronic communications services (ECS) provide consumers and businesses with access to high-speed internet, mobile TV and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) wherever and whenever they are required. Ensuring pan-European access involves coordination and co-operation on radio spectrum usage enabling seamless wireless connection across borders. A flexible, market-sensitive approach is required in this dynamic, rapidly evolving innovative sector.
Enabling anyone to connect to advanced ICTs wherever in, above or around the EU they are is a main theme of EU Information Society policies and of the i2010 initiative. The Commission is working to provide the framework to extend electronic communication services to all citizens and into new application areas. Radio spectrum usage has a key role in delivering these services.
Technologies have been developed and regulatory aspects agreed that will allow the use of mobile communications on aircraft (MCA) flying across Europe. Similarly technologies and protocols are being developed that will allow port-to-port electronic communications for ships and other vessels (MCV) in European and international waters.
Accessible services
On the ground, ubiquitous access to advanced communications can drive new services and boost the economy. Mobile broadband and mobile satellite services both bring content-rich applications for mass use, will increase connectivity for dispersed communities and inspire new business and social interactions.
To ensure that these and future electronic communications services can be established and flourish across Europe requres that radio spectrum management is able to adapt to allow the spectrum user to make timely decisions on how to use available spectrum in response to new market and new technology opportunities.
This is possible through the Wireless Access Policy for Electronic Communications Services (WAPECS) being developed by the Commission for transmission platforms used for radio access to electronic communications services, regardless of the bands in which they operate or the technology they use. The EU regulatory framework recognises the convergence of technologies and services and is working to support a competitive and innovative environment.