Wireless Network Evolution
The Wireless Network Evolution Working Group (WNE WG) work streams cover a wide range of developments; ranging from the impact of evolving generations of mobile network technologies on markets and consumers in Europe, the use of satellite and satellite connectivity to the development of Open Radio Access Networks, through to cooperation with other competent authorities and stakeholders, most notably the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG). In the context of rapid technological change, and the growing importance of end-to-end connectivity, it is vital that the regulatory practices remain fit for purpose. The WNE WG continues to analyse technological developments and their impact on sustainable competition in telecom markets. In line with the European ambition to create a Europe fit for the digital age, the WNE WG of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) contributes by identifying best practices and sharing information on the market shaping aspects of spectrum assignment which can facilitate the rollout of Very High-Capacity Networks (VHCN) and stimulate their contribution to close the digital divide.
Working Group Co-chairs
Work in 2026
In 2026, the WNE WG will continue working on related topics based on the BEREC Work Programme 2026.
Call for input on interfaces to mobile networks for developers and third-party services
Observing GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative, which aims to provide an Open Standard Application Programme Interface (API) to mobile network functionalities, which can, in turn, be used by application makers, BEREC’s aim is to explore such an API for mobile network functionalities.
BEREC’s interest in this initiative includes, among others, several questions with regard to the development and deployment of such interfaces:
- Which (categories of) different deployments can be distinguished?
- What challenges are there with potential impact for markets and end users, for instance, with regard to choice and switching providers (both of services as well as network providers)?
- How are prices composed (e.g. towards end users and developers, across operators and countries)?
- How is uniformity of the interface maintained for all mobile network operators and mobile virtual network operators (world-/region-wide)?
- Which procedures are in place for maintenance, extension, bug fixing, backward compatibility and phasing out of services?
- In what respects are vendor or operator lock-ins avoided?
Ad hoc work to support information exchange on 5G private networks, direct-to-device satellite communication, phaseout of 2G and 3G mobile technologies, and hybrid networks
BEREC plans to continue supporting capacity building through expert dialogue during 2026, including undertaking ad hoc work to support relevant information exchanges and strengthen BEREC’s technical capabilities. In particular, BEREC is open to inviting external presenters and to initiating internal discussions on some or all of these topics, especially in the context of developments in hybrid or heterogeneous networks, in which interworking and interrelations between different types of satellite, mobile, and radio local area networks are also of growing interest.
Peer review process and engaging with RSPG
BEREC and the RSPG agreed on working arrangements on 13 June 2019. These set out the cooperation methods for BEREC’s participation in the Peer Review Forum per the requirements of Article 35 of the EECC. BEREC’s participation in the Peer Review Forum contributes to the objective of promoting full connectivity through discussions with the RSPG about the market-shaping aspects of spectrum assignment. The Peer Review Forum is convened by the RSPG only when required.
Why is this important?
Wireless networks play an indispensable and crucial role in achieving connectivity, and they can be considered a VHCN in certain circumstances. Thus, wireless networks play an essential part in achieving the European Union’s connectivity goals and objectives. While 5G networks are still rolling out across Europe, its successor, 6G, is already in development. BEREC is aware that end users are less concerned about different network types so long as they have access to high-speed, high-quality services, regardless of network mode. In this regard, heterogeneous networks, including satellite networks, can enable connectivity to locations where communication by other means is impossible or economically infeasible. That may be important for Universal Service, amongst other things. BEREC, therefore, must keep well informed of wireless developments through this group.