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JUNE 2025 EDITION
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- Latest news from our Members
- Telecom digest:
- EU Launches Consultation to Shape Future International Digital Strategy
- Germany Prioritizes Digital Infrastructure Expansion as Public Priority
- Ofcom reports: Full-Fibre Broadband Reaches 74% of UK Premises as Uptake Grows
- France Strengthens Fibre Rollout with Arcep’s Price Caps and €16 Million Support Scheme for Complex Installations
- Fibre Takes the Lead in Iceland as Legacy Networks
- Next events from the FTTH Council Europe
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Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a strategic imperative for fibre network leaders. That’s where the FTTH Council Europe’s FTTH Eco Platform comes in. With its dynamic Academy powered by Toovalu, the Platform delivers fresh insights, expert-led modules, and actionable resources that turn learning into measurable impact. From reducing embodied carbon to mastering ESG reporting, the Academy is built for the doers of the fibre industry.
Read the full article here and discover how the FTTH Eco Platform is shaping a more sustainable fibre ecosystem; one informed, empowered professional at a time.
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NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS
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The average household now has around seventeen internet-connected devices, including computers, phones, smartwatches, TVs, and tablets, all demanding bandwidth. This number has more than doubled since 2015, prompting providers to upgrade networks to handle the increasing data demands of consumers: the future is fiber. Keep reading on Corning’s blog.
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Blog by Cyient on fibre observability: Why traditional monitoring falls short for fiber-speed complexity • How telcos can future-proof networks with the right digital foundations • Why AI/ML is mission-critical for cutting MTTR and boosting CX.
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Discover 6 ways to improve your broadband access. With consumers’ ever-increasing broadband demands, network accessibility is a vital consideration for enterprise. Discover practical strategies to improve your broadband access and meet growing customer demands with this article, by EXFO.
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Article by FNT highlights how integrated digital documentation streamlines fiber network build. By adopting tools like digital twins and real-time data integration, operators can reduce build times and cut costs, while minimizing environmental impact. This approach enhances coordination, reduces errors, and accelerates time to revenue.
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Fiber optics is not just a support for ultra-fast internet connection, but also a driver of innovation across many sectors: Industry 4.0, digital twin, remote surgery, environmental prevention, Smart Cities and agriculture. On the Open Fiber website, we explore 5 lesser-known uses of the FTTH network.
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New blog: AI-Enabled Data Centers There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution for DC infrastructure. Equipment, applications, and requirements change almost daily. For AI, racks and cubes have to be set up with more power than ever. It’s strategically important that DC infrastructures and capacities are planned and dimensioned with a holistic approach... Learn more on R&M’s article.
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With fibre rollouts accelerating, the next phase of FTTP expansion demands a strategic approach. This article explores key trends, planning strategies, and operational considerations telcos must address, highlighting how VertiGIS ConnectMaster can support them in navigating this dynamic market.
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EU Launches Consultation to Shape Future International Digital Strategy
The European Commission launched a call for evidence to gather input from tech companies, trade associations, national authorities, civil society, NGOs, academia, and citizens to help shape the EU’s external digital policy. This input will inform the upcoming Joint Communication on the International Digital Strategy, developed with High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas, which is set to be released in the coming weeks. The strategy aims to strengthen the EU’s role as a global digital player, advance strategic interests in technology and digital transformation, and support the digital transformation of partner countries. It will also focus on fostering the EU's technological sovereignty, democracy, security, and defence, building on progress in digital partnerships, alliances, and digital diplomacy.
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Germany Prioritizes Digital Infrastructure Expansion as Public Priority
The German government is taking decisive steps to accelerate the expansion of fibre-optic and mobile networks by designating the development of digital infrastructure as being in the "overriding public interest." A new legislative drafting aid has been approved by the federal cabinet to amend the Telecommunications Act, enabling faster and more streamlined approval procedures for infrastructure projects. This regulation is set to remain in effect until December 31, 2030. The move is driven by the urgent need to modernize Germany’s digital infrastructure to support economic growth, public services, and citizens' daily needs. The government aims to ensure universal access to dependable digital networks. A key focus is nationwide fibre-optic coverage to every building and the full deployment of 5G. These efforts will benefit underserved and rural areas by simplifying and expediting development. Currently, about 74% of households have gigabit-speed internet, but fibre-optic access is available to less than one-third. Around 92% of Germany’s territory has 5G coverage through at least one provider. The legislative amendment aims to close these gaps and enhance Germany’s long-term digital resilience and competitiveness.
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Ofcom reports: Full-Fibre Broadband Reaches 74% of UK Premises as Uptake Grows
Full-fibre broadband continues to expand rapidly across the UK, with Ofcom’s Connected Nations Spring update confirming that both availability and take-up of services delivered via fixed line and fixed wireless access (FWA) networks, with a focus on full-fibre broadband for the first time including FWA take-up data. As of January 2025, 86% of UK homes (25,9 million of 30,2 million premises) have access to gigabit-capable broadband, up from 83% in July 2024. When considering all properties, including businesses, gigabit-capable coverage is at 84%. A key highlight is the continued expansion of full-fibre broadband, which now reaches 74% of UK homes (22,5 million premises), a five-percentage point increase over six months since July 2024, representing 1,8 million additional homes. Alongside broader coverage, adoption is also rising. The number of full-fibre connections has grown by 1,5 million over the six-month period, reaching 9 million in total. These figures reflect both strong rollout momentum and growing demand for high-capacity, future-proof broadband infrastructureThe report also notes improvements in broadband quality: the number of premises without access to a minimum decent broadband speed (at least 10 Mb/s download and 1 Mb/s upload) has decreased from 58.000 to 48.000. Of these, around 41.000 premises are unlikely to benefit from publicly funded rollout programs within the next year.
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France Strengthens Fibre Rollout with Arcep’s Price Caps and €16 Million Support Scheme for Complex Installations
French telecom regulator Arcep has made Orange’s three-year pricing commitment for unbundled local loop (LLU) access legally binding for the period 2026-2028. This includes a price cap of €10,70 per month per pair for full LLU access in areas where FTTH coverage has reached at least 95% of households for over nine months, ensuring prices remain non-excessive and stable through 2028. This decision follows a public consultation and applies alongside other fees such as partial unbundling, service access, and cancellation charges. Arcep’s move reflects the accelerated copper network switch-off and growing fibre deployment, distinguishing areas with different pricing obligations based on infrastructure status. In regions where cost-based pricing applies, a lower cap of €9,20 per month for full LLU access was set. Overall, the decision supports the ongoing transition from copper to fibre by regulating wholesale access prices in fibre-dominant areas, encouraging investment and competition in France’s FTTH rollout.
Meanwhile, French Minister Marc Ferracci reportedly announced that the government has allocated €16 million for a new pilot program designed to provide financial support for fibre installations on private properties in hard-to-access locations. The pilot scheme is slated to begin in September and will focus on areas where the copper network is soon to be discontinued. Although further details have not yet been released, the financial assistance is expected to be means-tested and available to eligible households and very small businesses encountering high expenses for complex fibre installations.
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Fibre Takes the Lead in Iceland as Legacy Networks Decline
In 2024, fibre connectivity in Iceland continued to expand significantly, even amid an overall downturn in telecom sector investments. According to figures from the national telecom regulator Fjarskiptastofa (ECOI), the number of fibre-optic connections grew by 7% year-on-year, reaching 137.522, solidifying fibre as the dominant fixed broadband technology in the country. This growth came alongside a dramatic 39% decline in xDSL connections, highlighting the accelerating shift away from legacy infrastructure. While total sector investment dropped by nearly 18%, fibre deployment remained a clear priority, contributing to a modest increase in overall fixed internet connections and a 1,6% rise in data traffic. The consistent demand for fibre-based services underscores its central role in Iceland’s connectivity strategy, especially as households and businesses continue to seek more reliable, high-speed internet access.
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NEXT EVENTS
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The FTTH Council Europe is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fibre industry. Following the initial 2021/2022 survey on gender diversity, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee conducted two new surveys in 2025 to assess current practices, progress, and challenges in the sector. This webinar will share the latest survey results, compare them with previous data, and highlight how companies are actively working to create inclusive workplaces. We will also showcase the best practices of the 2025 Champion of Diversity award-winning company.
Join us to explore the state of DE&I in our industry and discover how together we can build a more equitable and sustainable future.
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Telecom and fibre operators struggle to scale networks and modernize infrastructure while relying on outdated GIS platforms that don’t support today’s field operations. This webinar will show how native mobility bridges the gap between back-office systems and fieldwork, enabling real-time, online and offline tools. Discover how IQGeo and Deepomatic combine mobility with AI to automate photo validation, ensure first-time-right installs, streamline inspections, and improve network visibility. Learn practical ways to overcome operational challenges, deliver faster ROI, and enhance service reliability.
Whether you manage fibre rollouts, fault response, or inspections, this session offers a clear blueprint to boost productivity and future-proof your operations. Secure your spot today and stay ahead in telecom innovation!
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Upcoming FTTH Council Europe events – SAVE THE DATES!
Stay ahead in the fibre industry by joining us at our upcoming events:
FTTH Congress CEE - Warsaw, Poland, 7-8 October 2025
A key gathering for fibre professionals in Central and Eastern Europe, featuring insightful discussions and networking opportunities.
FTTH Conference 2026 - London, UK, 14-16 April 2026
Europe's leading fibre optic summit, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to shape the future of FTTH.
We look forward to welcoming you, mark your calendars!
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#FibreHorizon is the FTTH Council Europe's monthly selection
of digital and fibre-related news.
For more information, check our website or contact us.
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About Us
The FTTH Council Europe is an industry organisation with a mission to advance ubiquitous full fibre-based connectivity to the whole of Europe.
Our vision is that fibre connectivity will transform and enhance the way we live, do business and interact, connecting everyone and everything, everywhere. Fibre is the future-proof, climate-friendly infrastructure which is a crucial prerequisite for safeguarding Europe’s global competitiveness while playing a leading global role in sustainability.
The FTTH Council Europe consists of more than 160 member companies.
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