Ofcom sets its sights on WhatsApp, Zoom and FaceTime
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(Pocket-lint) – Ofcom, the UK communications regulator, is examining the impact of chat and video services, such as WhatsApp, Zoom and FaceTime, on traditional calling and messaging. He’s also trying to determine if their inability to enable cross-platform communication is cause for concern.
The process has only just begun and may take many months or even years, but Ofcom wants to ensure that emerging technologies do not negatively impact competition between all communications providers in the UK .
Additionally, the regulator has launched a process to understand “the nature and intensity of competition” between digital personal assistants, smart TVs and smart speakers. She wants to analyze consumer behavior, “future developments” and the role of key market players, including their bargaining power with content providers. In essence, it wants to ensure that companies like Amazon, Google, Samsung and LG are not able to crowd out smaller competitors through the deals they make.
“Digital services have transformed the way we live, work, play and do business. But the number of platforms, devices and networks delivering content continues to grow, and so do the challenges technological and economic challenges faced by regulators,” said Selina Chadha, director of connectivity at Ofcom.
“That’s why we’re launching a program of work to review these digital marketplaces, identify any competition concerns, and make sure they work well for the people and businesses that depend on them.”
The regulator also revealed it would review cloud services from Microsoft, Amazon and Google.
Written by Rik Henderson.
