In this week's mobile industry news podcast we're looking at Apple's new mobile operating system, Vodafone's money-saving European tariff and Microsoft's plans to expand the reach of its Xbox gaming console.

There's also talk about network sharing, legal battles, mobile apps, mobile payments and mobile retailing.

Mark Bridge writes:

With just three working days for many people in the UK last week, you’d be forgiven for thinking nothing much would happen. However, you’d be wrong.

Telefónica UK and Vodafone UK announced plans to pool the basic parts of their network infrastructure in an expansion of their existing ‘Cornerstone’ partnership. It means that Vodafone and O2 will be using the same base stations for 2G, 3G and 4G service across the country. Responsibility is being split down the middle; Telefónica UK will take care of the east, while Vodafone UK will have the west. I imagine the dividing line running conveniently between the headquarters buildings in Slough and Newbury respectively.

Microsoft has revealed a new application that’ll bring entertainment from its Xbox gaming console to other devices. Xbox SmartGlass will launch later this year for Windows 8 devices and Windows Phone handsets.

For example, it’ll be possible to browse the web on your Xbox while using your mobile device as a remote control. Similarly, bonus features from TV shows could appear on your smartphone or tablet while you’re watching your television.

Sony Computer Entertainment says HTC Corporation will be joining its PlayStation Certified licence program, bringing PlayStation Mobile games to HTC devices. It’s the first non-Sony company to sign up.

The announcement also notes that ‘PlayStation Suite’ is now being called PlayStation Mobile.

Market research company Newzoo has published new insights into the UK’s mobile gaming market.

The number of mobile gamers in the UK has grown by 18% year-on-year to 23.9 million people, with 75% of them playing on smartphones and 17% on tablets.