Exponential-e and Birmingham City University to modernise communications
04 February 2026
Exponential-e, a leader in cloud, connectivity, communications, and cybersecurity, has teamed up with Birmingham City University (BCU) to deploy a cutting-edge unified communications platform aimed at transforming the university’s telephony, contact centre, and service operations. This initiative is designed to improve student engagement and deliver a more seamless user experience.
Procured through the Crown Commercial Services framework, the project will replace the university’s outdated, siloed on-premises systems with a fully managed, cloud-based service. The new, integrated communications ecosystem will focus on omnichannel engagement—including messaging via WhatsApp—providing students with more flexible and accessible ways to connect with the university.
Find out more O2 launches 5G standalone network across five major towns in Dorset
02 February 2026
O2 (Virgin Media) has announced the activation of its next-generation 5G Standalone (5GSA) network in five key towns in Dorset, England—Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester, Swanage, and Christchurch.
This rollout expands the operator’s 5GSA coverage to over 500 UK locations, covering approximately 70% of the population (around 49 million people).
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CalMac to boost onboard WiFi with Starlink
01 February 2026
Travelers on CalMac’s ferries—serving Scotland’s islands and peninsulas—are poised to enjoy faster and more reliable onboard WiFi after Clarus Networks secured a significant 12-month contract to supply Starlink (LEO satellite) connectivity to the UK’s largest ferry operator.
The agreement, awarded through Public Contracts Scotland, will see Clarus deliver a “pooled Starlink data service” across CalMac’s entire fleet, providing high-speed, low-latency broadband designed to improve operational efficiency, crew welfare, and passenger experience on board.
Find out more UK Government to streamlining building regulations to accelerate broadband and mobile infrastructure deployment
29 January 2026
In response to concerns over delays and rising costs faced by broadband and mobile operators deploying new digital infrastructure into large buildings, the UK government has launched a consultation aimed at reforming certain building control procedures.
This initiative seeks to address issues highlighted by the House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee, which recently criticized the current processes for causing unnecessary delays and costs—particularly for routine work such as fibre optic cabling and mobile mast installation.
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