HARMONISING SPECTRUM FOR ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY: COMMISSION'S IMPLEMENTING DECISIONS

On 8 February 2022 the European Commission adopted four implementing Decisions to ensure that the EU's radio spectrum policy meets the growing demand for broadband and for innovative digital applications.

Decision on readiness of spectrum bands for 5G applications

This Decision on 5G will make the 900 MHz to 1800 MHz frequency bands ready for the 5G applications by enabling better connectivity for critical applications in health monitoring, diagnosis and care, smart homes and energy consumption.

The Decision can be found here.

Two Decisions on short-range devices

This Decisions on short-range devices aim to take into account the new technology developments related to short-range devices. They update key definitions in transport and traffic telematics, which include short-range devices crucial for collecting and transmitting vehicle information in Intelligent Transport Systems.

The Decisions on short range devices can be found here and here.

5GHz Wi-Fi

This Decision builds upon and further develops the basis of technical conditions that allow wireless connectivity based on 5 GHz Wi-Fi, including in airplanes, trains, cars, buses and other road vehicles. It also aims at reducing possible harmful interferences to other devices that use spectrum, such as  meteorological and military radars, as well as equipment used for Earth and space exploration. Equally so, the decision is key for enabling new possibilities for connectivity on board vehicles and across the transport sector.

The Decision can be found here.

CEF DIGITAL - 5G FOR SMART COMMUNITIES

On 8 February the European Commission held an online information and machmaking workshop dedicated to Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital programme's call for proposals for ‘5G for Smart Communities’. From 1 February the registered participants will be able to search for potential project partners and invite them to set up a matchmaking call.

More information can be found here.
The European Commission presentation can be downloaded here.

Next steps: Matchmaking will be open from 8 February to 8 March 2022. 

EUROPEAN CHIPS ACT

On 8 February the European Commission presented the European Chips Act along with the accompanying Recommendation to the Member States. The Act aims to build on Europe's strengths – world-leading research and technology organisations and networks as well as host of pioneering equipment manufacturers – and address outstanding weaknesses.

The press release can be found here.

Next steps: The Member States are encouraged to immediately start coordination efforts in line with the Recommendation.

WINTER 2022 ECONOMIC FORECAST

On 10 February the European Commission published the Winter 2022 Economic Forecast. This forecast assumes that the strain on the economy caused by the current wave of infections will be short lived, the economic activity will regain traction and the supply conditions will normalise.

The press release can be found here.

Next steps: May 2022: The publication of the European Commission's Spring 2022 Economic Forecast.

DIGITAL SERVICES ACT AND DIGITAL MARKETS ACT

The IMCO Committee published information on the trilogue discussions on the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

More information can be found here and here.

Next steps: 1 March 2022: the third trilogue of the DMA.

112 DAY

On 11 February the EU celebrates the Single Emergency Number 112 day. This day aims to raise awareness about 112, the single European emergency number that everyone in any EU country can dial to reach emergency services.

By June 2023, the customers will automatically receive an SMS from operators when they travel abroad, to inform them about 112 and available alternative means of accessing emergency services for people with disabilities, such as through real-time-text or apps.

The press release can be found here.

Next steps: The Commission is currently working on  the measures to further enhance emergency communications across Europe, which it will put forward by the end of 2022.