European cable operators could be forced to allow competitors access to their high-speed fibre-optic networks, in much the same way as BT is required to let other companies use its network, under new proposals from the EU.
If passed, it would force the likes of Virgin Media to open up its cable network to other companies, including those who don't currently have a presence in the market.
The EU's reasoning is that Europe is falling behind Asia and the US in rolling out high speed broadband networks capable of handling high definition and other bandwidth-intensive content.
The private operators will no doubt argue that they have invested heavily in deploying and upgrading their own networks, and don't think it's fair that other companies should be allowed access to them.
Though other companies would have to pay the network owners in any such "unbundling" initiative, it could potentially end up crippling the entire network.
The future of high speed broadband networks in the UK is currently a hot topic, with arguments raging over who should pay for services to be upgraded. There's little doubt that the networks do need to be revamped if the 21st century Internet and other on-demand services are to thrive, but who foots the bill is another matter.
(Via Hollywood Reporter)
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