Summary of EU-US Tech Tensions: A Breakdown
This article details growing tensions between teh European Union and the United States regarding digital regulation and technological dominance. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
1. Digital Networks Act Stalled:
* The EU’s aspiring Digital Networks Act, intended to create a unified telecom market, is facing significant delays.
* Disagreements among member states,notably Germany,are hindering progress. Key sticking points include:
* Copper Network Shutdown: Germany opposes the proposed 2030 deadline.
* BEREC Strengthening: National authorities resist strengthening the European regulatory authority, fearing loss of power.
* The Act is losing key components like net neutrality revisions and initiatives to rebalance power between telecoms and Big Tech.
2. US Opposition to the EU space Act:
* the US has formally objected to the EU Space Act, arguing it restricts American companies and violates trade agreements.
* The US State Department demands revisions to allow for smoother cooperation and avoid potential retaliation.
3. Resistance to DSA & DMA:
* American tech giants (Apple, Google) are actively appealing and criticizing the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets act (DMA), causing delays in implementation.
* The US Federal Trade Commission has raised concerns about potential conflicts between DSA rules and American laws regarding freedom of expression and security.
4. Spectrum Battle – Wi-Fi vs. Mobile:
* The US State Department lobbied on behalf of American Wi-Fi companies (Apple, Broadcom, Cisco, Qualcomm) to protect a specific band of the mobile spectrum (upper 6 GHz band) for Wi-Fi use.
* The EU’s Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) proposed a compromise favoring mobile operators.
* While some EU countries sided with mobile operators,the final decision rests with the European Commission.
Overall Theme: The article paints a picture of increasing friction as the EU attempts to assert its digital sovereignty and regulate Big Tech, while the US actively resists measures perceived as hindering American companies and interests. The EU’s ambitious digital agenda is facing significant headwinds, and the potential for trade disputes and further conflict is growing.
