French telecom regulator Arcep has published a draft decision on its project to create a so-called 'access ID card' enabled by an API, which will be installed in operators' boxes to collect data on the type of fixed access network used by the end-user (copper, cable, fibre) and the headline speed of the connection. The project is part of the regulator's efforts to measure the actual quality of service experienced by broadband users via a data-driven approach, as opposed to its previous method based on tests in a controlled environment.
In its draft decision, Arcep is proposing to make the 'access ID card' a compulsory feature in operators' boxes used in the residential market for fixed broadband connections (copper, cable, fibre), as well as fixed 5G access in the future. The obligation will apply to broadband providers with at least 1 million customers and will be subject to a gradual roll-out over time. Once the regulator publishes its final decision, operators will have one year to equip the first boxes with the API, aiming to install it in 40 percent of their devices within 24 months and 95 percent within 28 months.