Weekly Brief – 3rd July 2026

VodafoneThree to use Vyntelligence in network upgrades

Vyntelligence will be used by VodafoneThree to help support engineers to upgrade thousands of mobile sites more efficiently and safely. This follows other companies such as Cornerstone (mobile tower site operator on behalf of Vodafone / O2) and Gigaclear, who are both looking at the technology to improve efficiency. Vodafone Three says that the technology allows sites to live weeks earlier, and as AI checks the work instantly, it reduces the need for repeat visits.

VirginMedia O2 sets up new UK Consumer Unit

A new consumer unit, with Lyssa McGowan OBE joining as the Consumer CEO, is being launched at Virgin Media O2. The new consumer unit will combine commercial, data and operations functions into a new team, which it hopes will allow the company to enhance consumer experience and move faster in a competitive market.

New UK Government bill hopes to stop mid-contract price rises on broadband and mobile

A new private members’ bill has been put forward by the MP for Hinckley and Bosworth, Dr Luke Evans, to prohibit mid-term price rises on fixed-term telecommunications contracts. The bill was noticed by ISPreview, who note that not many Private Members’ Bills ever become law. According to the UK Parliament website, the bill has passed the first reading, but the second reading is not due to take place until Friday 5th March, 2027.

One issue with stopping mid-contract rises is that providers are more likely to increase service prices up front, so inflationary measures are baked in at the start of the 24-month contract. Research from Money Saving Expert shows that 75% of people are paying more since Ofcom changed the rules to ensure price transparency (i.e. a fixed mid-term increase, rather than it being inflation + x%).