Telefonica begins offering Edge Computing services in Spain | Total Telecom

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Press Release

Telefónica activates its commercial Edge Computing services for businesses and administrations as part of its leading deployment plan in Europe

The company has taken a new step in this pioneering Edge project and now offers B2B (Business to Business) services in five nodes, located in Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Bilbao, and A Coruña.

The productive ecosystems around these cities have Telefónica’s first Edge-based services, benefiting from open, differentiated, and interconnected infrastructures capable of providing large computing and data storage capacities at the edge. This will enable companies to enjoy lower latency and greater efficiency in their processes, from the technological vanguard associated with this new wave of digital transformation for sectors such as industry and society in general.

Telefónica’s Edge Plan envisages 17 nodes in this first phase for the current year. Of that total, 12 infrastructures are already deployed: the five corresponding to Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Bilbao, and A Coruña, all with B2B services; and seven more nodes, located in Madrid (its second node), Barcelona, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Valladolid, Terrassa, and Merida.

This year, five more locations will be added to these 12 nodes: Zaragoza, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Gijón, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Santiago de Compostela. This means that by 2026, Telefónica will have 17 nodes, which will gradually activate their commercial Edge services from differentiated infrastructures, adding to the leading communications networks that the company accredits for fixed (FTTH fiber) and mobile (5G Stand Alone SA) technology, and taking advantage of the benefits offered by Open Gateway APIs.

Telefónica recently partnered with CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles) to launch the first European B2B pilot integrating Edge and 5G SA capabilities applied to the railway sector. Thanks to Edge, CAF can deploy interior perception solutions based on artificial vision without the need to install processing nodes in each car, maintaining low latency and ensuring processing close to the asset. Following this innovation project, Telefónica is now beginning to market its Edge services.

Telefónica identifies needs, collaborates with the necessary players, and provides solutions that were not feasible until the emergence of Edge, which powers applications and use cases. The new services allow information to be processed as close as possible to the activity, factory, office, store, or business, reducing latency, dependencies, and risks, which represents an evolution of the Cloud offering. From this unique position in the Spanish market, Telefónica Empresas is launching two levels of services: Edge Básico and Smart Edge, adaptable to each case and to the requests of each company. The portfolio is supported by the TTCP (Telefónica Tech Cloud Platform) service operated by Telefónica Tech, to offer the advantages of Edge from the infrastructures.

Basic Edge: capillarity and sovereignty

The Basic Edge is based on the capillarity and sovereignty of this deployment, through a stable and predictable Edge infrastructure. This static level brings the Cloud closer and ensures data control, in compliance with sovereignty requirements according to the required regulatory framework, whether national, regional, or even local. Each node defines an availability zone, allowing companies and administrations to deploy their applications with additional guarantees of business continuity and enhanced communications resilience.

In terms of access to a node from a factory, store, or business, when the customer has Telefónica fiber (FTTH), the route that traffic follows between both locations is highly optimized and remains within the service region, reducing network hops.

Edge Basic opens up a range of sovereign cloud services, including advanced computing capacity, thanks to virtual machines with GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), specialized units for high-performance AI computing. Companies and institutions will be able to use these GPUs in service mode, with low latency and in a sovereign manner, without having to make the corresponding initial investment.

It also incorporates sovereign AI capabilities through agents and adaptability with RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation), which provide flexibility, accuracy, and scalability. Basic Edge relies on the best secure and controlled storage solutions, close to the data to avoid movement to the public cloud. The service also includes comprehensive license management for the main business solutions that the customer needs.

Smart Edge: mobility and dynamism

The next level in terms of services offered is the dynamic Smart Edge, with the advantages of mobility for real-time application operation: low-latency connectivity in critical processes with the possibility of operating services on the move or in a distributed manner, all while bringing AI closer to the point where business activity takes place.
This intelligent and dynamic service is capable of adding key advantages such as selecting the optimal node at the right time and instantiating applications, i.e., creating a single, functional operational copy (instance), allowing it to be executed in memory under the direction of the user, who chooses when it is in operation. The Smart Edge service provides access to the chosen node via FTTH or 5G SA, depending on preferences, with the option to request quality of service (QoS) and private 5G access points (APN).

Telefónica’s Edge connects to the company’s next-generation fixed and mobile networks, which stand out in Spain for their coverage and capillarity, a footprint that is reinforced by the creation of 17 nodes, both on the mainland and in the archipelagos. The facilities chosen for deployment are located in former copper exchanges converted into Edge centers, in compliance with high availability requirements and the necessary security conditions.

This enables the next generation of advanced services, with enormous potential in sectors such as Industry 4.0: mobile robotics, logistics management, traceability and inventory solutions, automation and digitization, production line robotics, predictive maintenance, data analytics, operator assistance and safety, fleet management, route optimization, and storage measures. The Edge will also be crucial in other areas such as logistics, retail, ports, mass communications, digital twins, and autonomous driving.

Sovereignty to control data

The nodes function as small, low-latency data centers to process, analyze, and store data, and thanks to Edge technology, all of this is executed as close as possible to the source of the information, unlike large data centers or centralized cloud infrastructures. Edge computing is distinguished by its scalable and efficient architecture, capable of managing information generated by a large number of devices. In addition to the high availability and elasticity of the cloud, edge computing adds technological features and greater control over data, which contributes to strengthening digital sovereignty within a framework of local regulations.

This deployment opens up the option of reducing technological dependence on service providers with platforms based outside the European Union. Instead of a closed, centralized solution owned by a large cloud provider, Telefónica’s Edge Plan offers an open, decentralized, multi-provider model in which interfaces are shared and interoperability is guaranteed, benefiting the ecosystem and, of course, future customers.

The project is part of an Initiative of European Common Interest (IPCEI) coordinated by the European Commission to strengthen the digital capabilities of European industry. Telefónica España’s proposal was the highest rated nationally in June 2021 and received the Commission’s backing. This approval enabled its financing through the Spanish Government’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, accelerating the creation of a network of sovereign Edge nodes that reinforce the country’s digital autonomy and contribute to Europe’s.

At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) being held in Barcelona from March 2 to 5, Telefónica will present its latest developments in this area. On Wednesday, March 4, at 9:30 a.m., the session “Immediate Future: Leading the Low-Latency 5G Edge” will take place at the company’s stand in the Agora, with Alejandro Alonso, Innovation Expert at Telefónica Spain; Yolanda Bueno, Marketing Manager for Infrastructure and Cloud for B2B at Telefónica Spain, and Igor López Orbe, Head of Communications & Cybersecurity Center of Excellence at CAF.

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Mobile Operator Spusu UK Reduce Roaming Data Prices Across 115 Countries | ISPreview UK

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The SIM-Only mobile operator Spusu, which holds a virtual operator (MVNO) agreement to harness EE’s 4G and 5G (mobile broadband) network, has this week announced that they’ve just reduced roaming data prices across 115 countries – including many popular and long-haul destinations.

The latest changes, which came into force at the start of 2026, are being complemented by the introduction of a new roaming lookup tool on its website. This tool allows customers to quickly search for individual countries and view relevant roaming prices in advance.

NOTE: The amount of data customers can use when roaming within the EU varies per plan, albeit typically between 3GB and 20GB (GigaBytes), as well as 500 minutes and 500 texts when abroad (only applicable to 38 of the countries).

As part of the latest roaming update, five destinations now cost just £2 per GB for roaming data, including the United States, Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia. Roaming prices have also been reduced in a further 110 countries worldwide.

In addition, several destinations that were previously in higher-priced zones now cost just £4 per GB. This includes Armenia, Guernsey, the Channel Islands, Indonesia, the Isle of Man, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Madagascar, Senegal, Taiwan and Togo. Other increasingly popular destinations, including Montenegro, have seen roaming prices cut by 25%, while Georgia and Albania have also seen price reductions compared to previous rates.

Christian Banhans, MD of spusu, said:

“Since launching in the UK, our focus has been on offering fairer mobile pricing and putting customers first. International roaming is a key part of that. Roaming is one of the areas where customers are most likely to worry about cost, especially when travelling outside the EU.

By reducing prices across more than 100 countries and continuing to review our roaming rates, we’re making it easier for our customers to stay connected wherever they go, without having to second-guess how much it’s going to cost them.”

We should point out that these changes are likely occurring on other operators too, given Spusu UK’s status as a virtual operator.

State broadband leaders to gather at Connected America 2026 | Total Telecom

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Events

Brandy Reitter, executive director of the Colorado Broadband Office, will be joined by counterparts Oklahoma and Texas.

By Brad Randall, Broadband Communities

State broadband leaders will feature among key speakers at Connected America 2026, with leaders from Colorado, Arizona, and Oklahoma already committed to speak this April at the event.

Connected America, scheduled for April 14-15 at the Irving Convention Center in Texas, plans to discuss technology, regulation, and the investment environment for next generation broadband in the United States.

Among speakers being promoted are Brandy Reitter, the executive director of the Colorado Broadband Office, and Edyn Rolls, the chief strategic officer for the Oklahoma Broadband Office.

Also committed to speak is Nicholas Capozzi, who holds the title of state broadband director for the Arizona Commerce Authority, and Eric Frederick, the chief connectivity officer for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. 

See also:

Is a BEAD conflict brewing between NTIA and Starlink? (Jan. 2026)

Frederick plans to discuss the current progress and challenges faced by state-led broadband programs in his appearance on Day 1, which will feature a discussion with Reitter and Bryant Clayton, who serves as the Broadband Development Office director in Texas.

Other key speakers from the public sector include figures like Kevin Gunn, the chief technology officer for Fort Worth.

The city’s broadband manager, Lillian Painter, will also be present to join a discussion on funding, policy, and partnerships driving middle-mile expansion in the U.S.

To learn more about Connected America 2026, review the recently released agenda, which features themes like AI America, Connected Places, Connected Networks, Startup America, and Data Center Forum.

To review a full list of themes for Connected America 2026, click here.

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Netgem TV Adds Hit Mafia Video Game to PLEIO Freely UK Streaming TV Box | ISPreview UK

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Digital entertainment platform Netgem TV has today announced that their latest IPTV box – PLEIO, which includes support for the UK’s newest broadband-based live TV Freely streaming service, will on Saturday (21st Feb) add support for 2K’s global hit game ‘Mafia: Definitive Edition‘ (no other PC or console is required to play as PLEIO ships with a gamepad).

In case anybody has forgotten, PLEIO (retail via Amazon – affiliate link) is bundled by a number of broadband ISPs in the UK and can also be purchased at retail for £109.89 (NOTE: it will return to £99 from tomorrow until the end of Feb). The retail device typically ships with the added bonus of 12 months subscription to their premium content service (you don’t have to keep the subscription after it ends), which normally costs £9.99 per month.

NOTE: Freely is being developed by Everyone TV (formerly Digital UK), which runs free TV in the UK and is jointly owned by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5.

The PLEIO subscription includes access to 250+ Cloud Games and 150+ extra TV channels, but it’s the cloud gaming service that we’re focused on today. In addition, the software’s UI (User Interface) has also been updated to include new “My List” and “Continue Watching” rows available on the home page, as well as content on the home page being expanded beyond Freely.

Sylvain Thevenot, MD of Netgem PLEIO, said:

“From the very beginning we envisioned PLEIO as a service that would keep customers entertained, because we’re absolutely committed to value for the consumer. Adding Mafia: Definitive Edition on PLEIO Gaming – included in the 12-month access to Cloud Gaming – is a real indication of what consumers can expect from PLEIO in the future. It’s a truly phenomenal, console-quality game, and we are excited to be the first ones in the UK to include it as part of a TV & Streaming service.”

Netgem has also confirmed a number of other content additions to the platform, which we’ve listed below.

To WATCH – more extra channels:

● Masha and the Bear – A famous comedy preschool powerhouse
● Terra Mater WILD & Adventure Earth – High-production wildlife and discovery
● Autentic History & Autentic Travel – Documentaries and global exploration

To STREAM – hundreds of hours free for PLEIO users:

● Toon Goggles Jr – A dedicated, safe-for-kids platform featuring popular animated shorts and series.
● Duck TV – Expertly curated, soothing content designed specifically to help develop cognitive skills in infants and toddlers.
● Motor Vision – High-octane, on-demand automotive content – from supercar reviews to racing history.

To PLAY – more new games with fantastic options for kids:

● The Smurfs: Dreams – A stunning AAA platformer, with beloved characters
● Totally Spies! Cyber Mission & Tintin Reporter – Cigars of the Pharaoh – Massive fun with familiar characters
● My Universe – Doctors & Nurses – Aspirational, interactive gameplay for younger children

Openreach Launch Special Offers for 1Gbps Ethernet Access Direct Lines | ISPreview UK

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Network access provider Openreach (BT) has notified UK ISPs that they’ve launched three new special offers, which reflect a mix of connection discounts and free upgrades for those looking to take a 1Gbps speed Ethernet Access Direct (EAD) line – this provides dedicated point-to-point data connectivity between sites.

The first offer reflects a new EAD 1Gb connection discount in the High-Network Reach (HNR) access market, for the duration of 2026/27 with the connection charge set at £547 excluding VAT for Local Area (LA) and Standard (STD) circuits and £647 for Extended Reach (ER) circuits. The HNR reflects roughly 9% of UK postcode sectors with significant competitive infrastructure for leased lines, but where Openreach still retains Significant Market Power.

In addition, Openreach has also launched a similar connection discount for EAD 1Gb lines in the Central London Area (CLA). Finally, the operator has renewed the EAD 1Gb Remote Upgrade Special Offer for the duration of FY 2026/27, allowing ISPs to remotely upgrade 10Mbps and 100Mbps EAD lines to 1Gbps for free (without incurring the price list £100 regrade charge). Further details here.

Feb 2026 Contract Delivery Progress for UK Project Gigabit Broadband Rollout | ISPreview UK

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The Government’s Building Digital UK agency has published their February 2026 update on the delivery progress of contracts that have been awarded under their £5bn Project Gigabit broadband rollout scheme. The update reveals that some 215,380 contracted premises (up from 202,270 in Jan 2026) have so far been covered out of a planned total of 1,023,310.

The figures in this update are not directly comparable to the figures published in BDUK’s general statistics release. This is because today’s report tracks the number of contracted premises to which a supplier has delivered a gigabit-capable connection under the main gigabit subsidy scheme (GIS), whereas the official statistics include the number of premises that have also received a gigabit-capable connection as a result of any public BDUK subsidy (i.e. that covers other schemes too, like gigabit vouchers and past contracts that pre-date Project Gigabit).

NOTE: Project Gigabit aims to help extend gigabit broadband (1000Mbps+) ISP networks to “nationwide” coverage (c.99% of UK premises) by 2032, focusing mostly on the final 10-20% in hard-to-reach areas. Some 89.6% of premises can already access such a network (here), with Ofcom forecasting between 91% and 97% by January 2028 (here).

So far, most of the country’s gigabit-capable broadband coverage has been delivered by commercial deployments (predominantly focused on urban and semi-urban areas), while Project Gigabit focuses on the final bits that they fail to reach. The project has already committed most of its budget up to 2030, but there are still some contracts yet to be awarded and others that have been scaled-back or switched suppliers (here, here, here and here).

Otherwise, it’s worth remembering that all of the listed contracts were awarded at different times and are thus at very different stages of development (some started several years apart). A few of the listed contracts have already completed their delivery, such as Wessex Internet’s roll-out for North Dorset and GoFibre’s roll-outs for County Durham and North Northumberland.

Project Gigabit – Contracted Premises and Built Premises by Contract (Feb 2026)

Contract Supplier Contracted premises Built contracted premises
Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes CityFibre 21,030 2,800
Bucks, Herts and East of Berks CityFibre 19,090 3,430
CO1 Lancashire, West Berkshire, Staffordshire, Surrey, Hertfordshire, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire Openreach 51,820 10,840
CO2 Devon, Mid Wales and South East Wales Openreach 41,140 6,380
CO3 North Herefordshire, North Wales, Shropshire and South West Wales Openreach 52,060 200
CO4 South Devon, Mid Devon and North Somerset Openreach 37,110 1,180
CO5 Essex and North East England Openreach 24,710 380
CO6 Rest of Scotland Openreach 77,640 790
CO7 Worcestershire Openreach 22,600 10
Cambridgeshire CityFibre 39,070 8,530
Central Cornwall Wildanet 9,810 6,880
Cornwall and Isle of Scilly Wildanet 14,430 3,240
Cumbria Fibrus 53,540 30,010
Derbyshire Connect Fibre 12,050 770
Dorset and South Somerset Wessex internet 19,560 2,200
Durham GoFibre 4,440 4,440
East Gloucestershire Gigaclear 3,550 1,090
East and West Sussex CityFibre 41,940 2,970
Hampshire CityFibre 55,570 5,780
Kent CityFibre 46,080 1,950
Leicestershire and Warwickshire CityFibre 38,230 7,930
Lincolnshire and East Riding Quickline Communications 47,800 14,050
New Forest Wessex internet 15,120 9,110
Norfolk CityFibre 48,890 11,530
North Dorset Wessex internet 6,480 6,480
North East Staffordshire Connect Fibre 5,960 1,690
North Oxfordshire Gigaclear 4,180 3,310
North Shropshire Freedom Fibre 3,410 3,410
Northern North Yorkshire Quickline Communications 33,810 7,720
Northumberland GoFibre 3,830 3,830
Nottinghamshire and West Lincolnshire CityFibre 27,820 0
South Oxfordshire Gigaclear 5,310 2,640
South West Cornwall Wildanet 11,140 6,400
South Wiltshire Wessex internet 18,790 5,290
South Yorkshire Quickline Communications 13,290 7,740
Suffolk CityFibre 65,710 16,360
West and Parts of North Yorkshire Quickline Communications 26,310 14,040
TOTAL   1,023,310 215,380

Take note that CityFibre’s progress under the £58.6m (public subsidy) contract for rural parts of Nottinghamshire and West Lincolnshire (Lot 10) needs to be taken in context, since Connexin originally held this until only a few months ago when they were acquired by CityFibre. Connexin only began the build phase at the end of 2024 (here), thus its delivery has been stuck in limbo due to that consolidation.

The above is an example of why it’s important to understand the context behind each contract before judging delivery progress, since a face-value assessment will overlook key realities. Speaking of which, some of the contracted figures may differ from the original announcements, which reflects the usual contract modifications (i.e. the scope of delivery can increase or decrease, such as due to commercial builds by other operators going further than expected or builds costing more than expected etc.).

For some extra context, you can check out the previous figures for January 2026 (here).

Openreach Start FTTP Broadband Builds in Glastonbury and 9 More UK Areas | ISPreview UK

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Network operator Openreach (BT) has this week confirmed that they’ve recently started to roll-out or expand their new Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) based gigabit broadband ISP network across the Somerset festival town of Glastonbury, as well as 9 more locations that stretch right across the United Kingdom.

Just to recap. Openreach is currently investing up to £15bn to expand the coverage of their new full fibre network to 25 million premises by December 2026 (here), which will include around 6.2m in rural or semi-rural areas. On top of that, they’ve also expressed an ambition to reach “up to” 30m by 2030 (there are c. 33m in the UK), albeit somewhat dependent upon a favourable outcome from Ofcom’s Telecoms Access Review 2026 (TAR).

NOTE: Openreach’s average FTTP build rate is currently passing c.1 million UK premises per quarter (c.85,000 per week), with a take-up rate of over 38% or 8.2 million premises (rising to over 50% in older cohorts). The operator’s network has so far covered nearly 22 million premises.

The latest locations on Openreach’s existing roll-out plan to see the start of Street Works to build their new full fibre network have this week been confirmed as Glastonbury, Ferndown, Millport, Wemyss Bay, Ventnor, Ilfracombe, Royston, Low Moor, Padiham and Kingswinford. Sadly, the operator hasn’t said how many premises in each location will be reached.

The new service, once live, can be ordered via various ISPs, such as BT, Sky Broadband, TalkTalk, Vodafone and many more (Openreach FTTP ISP Choices) – it is not currently an automatic upgrade, although some providers have started to do free automatic upgrades as older copper-based services and lines are slowly withdrawn.

‘Nation building’: Reliance Jio to invest $110bn in AI data centres | Total Telecom

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News

The move comes as the company pledges “to embed AI across manufacturing, logistics, energy, finance, retail, agriculture and healthcare” throughout India

Reliance Industries, owner of India’s biggest telco Reliance Jio, has announced plans to invest $109.8 billion over the next seven years to expand India’s AI data centre footprint.

Speaking at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi today, Reliance owner and Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, said that the investments would see the conglomerate deploy sovereign gigawatt (GW)-scale data centres to handle the country’s growing demand for AI.

“I would like to announce that Jio will play an even bigger role in India’s AI transformation,” said Ambani. “This is not a speculative investment. It is not for chasing valuation. This is patient, disciplined, nation-building capital, designed to create durable economic value and strategic resilience for six decades to come.”

During his speech, Ambani said the biggest bottleneck for AI in India was the limited availability of compute infrastructure, which risked driving up costs for consumers. By rapidly expanding the availability of this infrastructure, Reliance hopes to make AI affordable across the country.

“India cannot afford to rent intelligence. Therefore, we will reduce the cost of intelligence dramatically as we did the cost of data,” Ambani said.

Reliance Jio is already building a massive data centre campus in Jamnagar, ultimately aiming for 3 GW of total capacity. The first 120 MW are expected to come online in the second half of 2026, according to Ambani.

In addition to expanding its data centre footprint, Reliance’s investment strategy also focusses on building more localised compute infrastructure (i.e., edge computing facilities). By processing data closer to the edge, customers will be able to leverage AI with lower latency.

Of course, all this new AI infrastructure will require an immense amount of power. For this, Reliance says it is leveraging its 10 GW of renewable energy from solar farms in Gujarat and the Andhra Pradesh. This, Ambani says, is not only makes the project sustainable, but also cheaper for Indian customers.

It is worth noting, however, that Reliance is not alone in aiming to become India’s leading domestic data centre player. Earlier this week, Adani Enterprises – owned by India’s second-richest man Gautam Adani – said it would invest $100 billion to build renewable energy-powered AI-ready data centres by 2035.

The battle for AI data centre dominance in India is only just beginning.

Keep up to date with all the latest telecoms news with the Total Telecom newsletter

Also in the news
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O2 UK and McAfee Launch McAfee Protect Advanced for Mobile Users | ISPreview UK

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Mobile network operator O2 (Virgin Media) has today launched a bespoke family protection and security package for up to 10 devices in the shape of McAfee Protect Advanced, although it will come at an extra monthly cost for most, but not all, of their existing subscribers.

The new product is said to include updated features, such as enhanced Parental Controls, McAfee’s Text Scam Detector, Social Privacy Manager, Personal Data Cleanup, antivirus software and more. “With McAfee Protect Advanced, O2 customers can be assured that their family is shielded from viruses, scams, malware, and other online threats, whilst personal information remains safe from identity theft and fraud threats,” said the announcement.

McAfee Protect Advanced allows customers to protect up to 10 devices per household and is the latest service to join O2 Extras extensive catalogue, sitting alongside Extras including Disney+ from £5.99 per month, Amazon Prime for £8.99 per month (comes with a £2 discount), Cafeyn for £7.99 per month and TNT Sport (£26.99).

The new product replaces two previous McAfee security offerings available via Extras (McAfee Mobile Security Plus and McAfee Mobile Security Standard).

Key features include:

➤ Award-winning AI-powered antivirus – Rest easy knowing your devices are protected from the latest threats with award-winning antivirus protection for compatible Windows, Mac OS, Chromebooks, and Android devices.

➤ Parental Controls – Protect kids from inappropriate content online and help them to build good digital habits with the ability to manage both screen time and the content which is accessible. Features include the ability to apply a ‘Digital Timeout’, which pauses the child’s screen time and restricts access to installed apps and internet browsing. The software can also block inappropriate apps, content and dangerous websites, giving parents maximum control and peace of mind.

➤ McAfee’s Text Scam Detector – Scam or safe? Avoid scam texts with AI-powered protection. Text Scam Detector uses patented AI technology to proactively detect scams and automatically alerts you if it detects a dangerous link in your texts, even before you open the message. And don’t worry, it can even block sites if you accidentally click.

➤ McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup – Know how much of your data is online, and which companies are selling it. With Personal Data Cleanup, O2 customers will also receive guidance on how to remove their data from third parties.

➤ McAfee’s Social Privacy Manager – Safeguard your privacy on social media. Social Privacy Manager helps you adjust more than 100 privacy settings across your social media accounts in just a few clicks, so your personal info is only visible to the people you want to share it with.

In terms of price, McAfee Protect Advanced is available exclusively to O2 customers at £4.99 per month, or at no extra cost for 6 months to those upgrading or taking out a new Ultimate Plan, via Extras. O2 Extras appear on a customer’s monthly bill alongside their Airtime plan.

Christian Hindennach, Chief Commercial Officer at VMO2, said:

“Helping our customers to remain safe and secure online is a top priority for O2. For us, our mission is simple – to help families feel more secure at home and confident in dealing with the modern challenges that come with being a connected household. This new package of award-winning security features by McAfee, exclusive to O2 customers, is our latest way of offering families peace of mind so they can enjoy the connection, entertainment and ease our network offers without having to worry about online risks. Whether you want greater control over your child’s online time or simply more say in how your own data is used online, every household can benefit from the security features offered by McAfee Protect Advanced.”

The launch is said to be O2’s latest way of keeping its customers, their devices and personal information safe. An automatic restriction is put in place to limit customers from accessing 18+ content on the O2 network, with age verification required in order lift this bar. O2 also provides a free opt-in Parental Control service which limits the websites children can access on the network.

Texas broadband power players will headline at Connected America | Total Telecom

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us a flag on pole

Events

An impressive arrangement of local and state broadband leaders from the Lone Star State will take center stage at Connected America in Texas.

By Brad Randall, Broadband Communities

Deep in the heart of Texas this April a who’s who of Texas leaders in broadband will share their insights with attendees at Connected America, scheduled for April 14-15 at the Irving Convention Center.

Lone Star leaders to set the pace at Connected America

Along with the Bryan Clayton, the director of the Broadband Development Office in Texas, speakers from the City of Fort Worth, the Deep East Texas Council of Governments, the City of Irving, the City of Seguin, and the City of Lewisville will also be in attendance.

Meanwhile, Fort Worth is sending two key speakers to Connected America 2026: Broadband Manager Lillian Painter and the city’s chief technology officer, Kevin Gunn.

The City of Austin will also be represented with Steven Apodaca, chair of the city’s technology commission.

Apodaca will discuss how employers, educators, and policymakers collaborate to future-proof the workforce, joining panelists on Day 2 of the conference for a panel titled “Building digital skills for the AI-driven economy.”

With state and local leaders, organizations based in Texas will also be well represented among speakers.

The agenda features speakers from North Texas Fiber (Bobby Vassallo), Nextlink Internet (Cameron Kilton), and NOVOS FiBER (Rob Johnson).

The conference’s second day will also feature a discussion about smart cities in Texas, featuring Chris Lee, the chief information officer for the City of Lewisville, and Shane McDaniel, who holds the same position for the City of Seguin.

Their panel, at 2:15 on Day 2, will investigate how Texas cities are using smart infrastructure to improve transport, energy, and safety. They’ll also discuss how mid-sized communities replicate big-city innovations affordably.

Earlier that day, Rashmi Varma, a managing partner at VAJR Capital, will detail how quantum technology is no longer a distant vision, with a presentation highlighting the Texas Quantum Initiative and the Texas Quantum Corridor.

Attendees can review the full conference agenda for Connected America 2026 online.

Click here to view a full list of key speakers.

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