O2 portable charging points at O2 Academy venues
O2 and Virgin Media priority members can hire a phone charger for free
Operators
October 17, 2022
More details about the lab will be announced by the government in due course
The government has announced a new Telecommunications Lab based in Solihull- the first of its kind in the UK.
The lab will create many high-skilled jobs for the region and will act as a secure research facility that brings telecom operators, suppliers and academics together to improve the UK’s mobile networks.
The new national lab in one location means telecom companies and suppliers can test their equipment in a realistic environment.
Faster mobile technology will be rolled out quicker and will enable security risks in UK networks to be identified and ensure equipment and software are protected against cyber attacks.
New research
New research by the government also reveals a large rise in the number of tech startups across the West Midlands and Birmingham this year.
Over 144,000 people are employed in tech startups and scaleups across the West Midlands and the region’s tech ecosystem is now valued at £15.3 billion- an increase from £11.5 billion in 2021- according to data from Dealroom.
Tech Minister Damian Collins said: “Fast-growing firms are cementing Birmingham’s status as a tech powerhouse – boosting jobs and spreading economic growth right across the West Midlands.
“As a result, there is no better home for the new UK Telecoms Lab, which will turn the region into a centre for expertise and innovation in the security of next-generation mobile networks.”