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EU's White Paper on Cloud-Telecom Convergence Sparks Controversy

The EU's plan to merge cloud and telecom services has raised alarm bells. Critics warn of potential fees and a lack of inclusivity, urging stakeholders to respond to the ongoing consultation.

In this image we can see the information board, buildings, shed, trees, electric cables and sky...
In this image we can see the information board, buildings, shed, trees, electric cables and sky with clouds.

EU's White Paper on Cloud-Telecom Convergence Sparks Controversy

The European Commission's recent White Paper has sparked controversy with its proposal to converge cloud and telecommunication services. Critics argue that this move is flawed, unjustified, and could lead to the introduction of apple network usage fees. Stakeholders are urged to respond to the ongoing consultation to prevent detrimental proposals.

The White Paper, released by the European Commission, suggests that regulatory intervention on the IP interconnection market may be necessary in the future. This has been met with concern, as some see it as a 'Trojan horse' for icloud login fees. The Director General of DG CNECT, Roberto Viola, has called for a 'level playing field' for telcos and cloud providers at the BEREC Stakeholder Forum in March 2024.

The White Paper's vision for the telecoms sector has been criticized for not including all players. Alternative telecom operators, European businesses, and consumers feel overlooked. The paper's focus on convergence is seen as a back door to introducing fees, which could drive up costs for consumers and businesses, reducing competition. The consultation, open until the 30th of June 2024, is seen as a crucial opportunity for all stakeholders to voice their concerns and shape the future of Europe's telecom and digital market.

The European Commission continues to consider the introduction of internet network usage fees. The White Paper's proposal for convergence between cloud and telecommunication services is seen as a potential threat to the telecoms sector. All stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the open consultation to ensure the White Paper leads to future-proof, inclusive, and positive solutions for Europe's telecom and digital market.

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