A wave of developments across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa highlights how connectivity, regulation, and consumer demand are shaping the region’s technology landscape, from advanced 5G capabilities to policy shifts and robust market performance.
Ericsson has introduced new 5G Advanced location services software designed for precise tracking of connected devices across sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and public safety. By embedding positioning as a core feature in 5G standalone networks, the company said the solution can support both indoor and outdoor use cases and help communications service providers better monetize location-based services. Ericsson also plans to roll out additional devices for the location services market in the coming months.
In Brussels, Connect Europe, formerly known as ETNO, has raised concerns over the European Union’s proposed revision of the Cybersecurity Act. The group warned that the changes could impose “significant additional constraints on operators” and lead to “multi-billion-euro additional regulatory costs.” It has urged policymakers to adjust the proposals during the legislative process so the Act “delivers effective security outcomes without compromising Europe’s digital competitiveness.”
At the same time, the EU has outlined proposals linked to its upcoming Digital Networks Act. A key objective is the creation of a “single market for connectivity.” Under the plan, companies would be able to offer digital services across the EU while registering in only 1 member state. The proposals also aim to encourage pan-European satellite communication services through an EU-level spectrum authorization framework. In fixed-line infrastructure, member states will be required to implement national transition plans to phase out copper networks by 2035.
In the UK, electronics retailer Currys reported strong “peak period” performance, supported by solid mobile sales. Like-for-like revenue growth in the Nordics reached 12% in the 10 weeks to 10 January 2026, compared with 3% in the UK and Ireland. Subscribers to its iD mobile virtual network operator brand increased 19% to 2.5 million. Group adjusted profit before tax for the full year is now expected to be between £180 million and £190 million.
Elsewhere, Deutsche Telekom Security has selected technology from US-based Akamai to deliver API-focused cybersecurity services, including what Akamai describes as “proactive Day-2 operations services.”
Finally, satellite systems specialist SWISSto12 has secured €73 million in funding from European Space Agency member states through the HummingSat ARTES partnership. The funding will support development of its “next-gen affordable, compact satellite” and phased-array antenna technologies for LEO, MEO, and GEO applications.
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