The Information Commissioner’s Office and Ofcom have published a joint action plan to tackle nuisance calls and unsolicited text messages.

Ofcom has powers to deal with ‘silent’ automated calls and abandoned calls, while the ICO is responsible for dealing with companies that make unwanted marketing calls or send SMS text messages.

Ofcom says its four-year process to release digital TV and wireless microphone frequencies for 4G mobile broadband will be completed this week, five months earlier than originally planned.

Wireless microphones, which are often used at conferences and for theatre productions, have now been moved to different frequencies. In addition, TV transmitters and receivers across the UK have been retuned. The final TV retune will be completed on Wednesday in northern Scotland.

Mark Bridge writes:

With the school term over and August just a few days away, UK telecom regulator Ofcom has published a new guide to help travellers avoid ‘bill shock’ after using their mobile phones, tablets and laptops abroad.

Telecoms regulator Ofcom says it’ll allow all UK mobile network operators to use 4G technology on their 900MHz, 1800MHz and 2100MHz frequency bands previously set aside for 2G and 3G service.

It’s also permitting an increase in the maximum 900MHz base station transmit power for 3G and 4G technology.

Mark Bridge writes:

I don’t know about you but I’m delighted to see Sony Mobile getting plenty of coverage for its new smart watch and giant smartphone. The company’s impressive presence at Mobile World Congress 2013 showed plenty of promise... and I’d say it’s now delivering.