"Could 4G mobile connectivity be enough, especially for extremely isolated populations that would be extremely costly to connect with fibre? For how long could 4G coverage be sufficient instead of broadband for (i) a residential premise; (ii) a business premise? To what extent is there demand in these communities for broadband connectivity?"
Background
BDUK wishes to develop a stronger evidence base around the telecoms market and how it functions at a national level. In these markets, BDUK is interested in increasing understanding of infrastructure planning and decision making, as well as how infrastructure maintenance can be ensured in the long term.
BDUK would like more insight into the barriers to delivery of gigabit and mobile roll-out across the UK and what technological innovations may assist in this. International comparisons for gigabit and mobile connectivity roll out would also be beneficial.
Cutting across all programmes, BDUK wants to understand more about the impacts of fixed and mobile connectivity, specifically how greater connectivity benefits businesses, residents, and public sector organisations. In addition, BDUK also needs more evidence on the behavioural changes connectivity makes to residents and businesses which have been connected, and the wider impacts this may have.
Lastly, BDUK is interested in more evidence on the environmental impact of its work.
Next steps
If you are keen to register your interest in working and connecting with DSIT Digital Technology and Telecoms Group and/or submitting evidence, then please complete the DSIT-ARI Evidence survey - https://dsit.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cDfmK2OukVAnirs.
Please view full details: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/department-for-science-innovation-and-technology-areas-of-research-interest/dsit-areas-of-research-interest-2024
Related UKRI funded projects
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Last mile broadband for rural UK via Integrated Access Backhaul
Broadband is an essential tool for empowering populations and a key priority in the 21st century due to its transformative power as an enabler for economic and social growth. It leads to increased income and reduced unem...
Funded by: Innovate UK
Why might this be relevant?
Partially relevant as it focuses on last-mile broadband for rural areas, not specifically on 4G connectivity.
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EPSRC NETWORK in Next Generation Networks Systems and Services- Enablers for the Digital Economy
Investment in innovation and research in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is essential in order to foster social and economic inclusion, better public services, and improvements in the quality of life for ...
Funded by: EPSRC
Why might this be relevant?
Partially relevant as it focuses on Next Generation Networks, not specifically on 4G connectivity for isolated populations.
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Advanced 5G Open Platform for Large Scale Trials and Pilots across Europe (IMAGINE-B5G)
The evolution of mobile telecoms networks Beyond-5G creates a tremendous opportunity for Europe to establish leadership in innovation by addressing the requirements of use case from PPDR, smart agriculture, media, eHealt...
Funded by: Horizon Europe Guarantee
Why might this be relevant?
Partially relevant as it focuses on advanced 5G platforms, not specifically on 4G connectivity.