global tech trends

A strategic, global perspective on new frontiers in technology and their impact on regulation and policy.


As telecoms, media, the digital economy and world politics converge, it's essential for organisations to have a global perspective on the wide-ranging trends shaping the future of the communications sector.

Our Global Trends service helps leaders understand the bigger picture and set strategic direction for their organisation.

Drawing together on-the-ground expertise from key markets around the world, it provides a unique, high-level view of the latest developments and their implications for decision makers across industry, government and regulators.

key trends covered

Platforms, digital services and content

Understand the complex and shifting roles of online platforms and services in debates around global economics, trade and regulation.

  • Digital payments
  • Market power of online platforms
  • Over-the-top voice and messaging platforms
  • Social media regulation
Connectivity

Stay on top of the latest developments in 5G and full-fibre coverage worldwide, as well as the wider relationship between global tech trends and internet connectivity.

  • 5G
  • Full fibre networks
  • Next generation satellites
  • Open radio access networks (open RAN)
Data economy

Follow the debate around privacy, data flows and artificial intelligence, and understand how new developments impact the global data economy.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Data flows
  • Internet of Things (IoT)
  • Privacy in the digital age

global geographic scope

12 key markets covered in-depth across 5 continents

why subscribe

The future of communications regulation hinges on many complex technological, economic and geopolitical factors. Our global intelligence is here to help decision makers understand the different forces at work and see the bigger picture for their organisation.

With our own experts in multiple countries across the globe helping to report and benchmark, we offer a razor-sharp focus on the most important trends of the moment - delivered with the clarity and impartiality that have made us a trusted voice in regulation for over three decades.

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your deliverables

stay on top

Keep abreast of compelling new developments with our short analyses from around the world. These timely trend spotters are based on original sources, organised in an interactive map, and link to further research for more in-depth analysis.

get ahead

Get ahead of the latest global developments with our regulatory reports. Providing a high-level summary of the top trending topics, their drivers and implications across multiple key markets, our reports help you read the pulse of the digital world.

compare

Compare and contrast how different markets are responding to global tech trends shaping policy and regulation in the digital world. Our in-depth benchmarks deliver probing insights on new developments across key markets without losing sight of the bigger picture.

latest intelligence

Nigeria updates internet code of practice with new rules for internet access service providers and online platforms
03 March 26 Gilles Bana

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued its revised Internet Code of Practice in February 2026. The code is binding on all internet access service providers (IASPs) in Nigeria. This Global Trends Flash notes that the revised code preserves the existing net neutrality framework. It expands the rules for IASPs by adding obligations on child online safety and AI notification requirements. Lastly, it also strengthens NCC’s supervisory powers over digital platforms providers.

Singapore sets out approach to managing risks from using AI agents
20 February 26 Javier Morales Fhon

Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has launched what it describes as the world’s first governance framework for agentic artificial intelligence (AI). The framework provides organisations with practical guidance for deploying AI agents responsibly. First, by selecting appropriate use cases and limiting agents’ powers. Second, by embedding meaningful human oversight through defined approval checkpoints. Third, by applying technical safeguards throughout the agent lifecycle. Fourth, by promoting responsible use through transparency, education, and training. This Global Trend Flash highlights the framework’s key features.

China to regulate AI companion services
17 February 26 Elena Scaramuzzi

The new measures proposed by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) would impose strict obligations and liabilities on providers of artificial intelligence (AI) companion services. The CAC contends AI companions can easily lead their users to develop emotional dependence and psychological addiction. The draft measures include specific provisions on the protection of minors and seniors, this Global Trends Flash also highlights.

Nigeria commits to more spectrum for both terrestrial and non-terrestrial services until 2030
17 February 26 Gilles Bana

According to the draft spectrum roadmap recently released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), by 2030, the country will make available additional spectrum for mobile services, including in the 600 MHz and the upper 6 GHz band. The NCC also issued draft guidance on the use of the lower 6 GHz and 60 GHz bands in support of Wi-Fi 6, high-speed indoor connectivity and multi-gigabit wireless systems, this Global Trends Flash highlights.

Bangladesh 700 MHz mobile spectrum auction: most of spectrum remained unsold
13 February 26 Javier Morales Fhon

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) awarded 2x10 MHz of spectrum in the 700 MHz band out of 2x25 MHz available to the country’s largest mobile operator, Grameenphone. Grameenphone was the sole bidder in the auction held in January 2026. The recent BTRC assignment was meant to address the country’s critical shortage of low-band spectrum for mobile services, that is below several other markets in the region. However, the single-participant auction raised concerns from rival operators about investment and competition in the Bangladesh mobile market, this Global Trends Flash highlights.

Brazil strengthens anti-spoofing and telecom fraud measures
19 January 26 Andre Moura Gomes

The Brazilian telecoms regulator, Anatel, reinforced its anti-spoofing framework with stricter enforcement powers effective 1 January 2026. These new powers include an escalating sanctions framework, ranging from a one-month interconnection block for first-time offenders to a permanent block after three violations. The measures build on prior enforcement efforts to prevent caller ID spoofing under the previous regime.

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