As we reflect on over 20 years in the telecoms industry, one thing is crystal clear: technology has progressed at an astonishing pace. Each year brings ground-breaking developments, and as we head into 2025, the future looks brighter than ever.

This week’s announcement by Google about their new quantum chip, ‘Willow,’ has set the tone for what’s to come. This chip can solve problems in mere minutes that would take today’s fastest supercomputers an unimaginable 10 septillion years to complete! With technology like this on the horizon, it’s impossible not to get excited about what’s next.

As we prepare to welcome the new year, here are the top trends and advancements we expect to define 2025:

5G and beyond: faster and smarter networks

The rollout of 5G is already transforming industries, but 2025 will take connectivity to a whole new level. The expansion of 5G+ or even 6G promises speeds up to 100 times faster than today’s networks. These ultra-fast networks will:

• Revolutionise verticals such as autonomous vehicles, virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming.

• Enable real-time data transfer with almost zero latency.

• Open doors to AI-powered applications, enhancing everything from healthcare to entertainment.

AI-driven devices: smarter than ever

AI was the defining buzzword of 2024, and its momentum will only grow. By 2025, we expect AI to:

• Become a mainstay in smartphones, delivering unprecedented levels of personalisation.

• Power smarter cameras that adjust dynamically based on their environment.

• Anticipate user needs through advanced predictive technology, integrating seamlessly into daily tasks.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR)

AR and MR capabilities are set to soar in 2025. Smartphones will:

• Act as powerful AR devices, overlaying digital content onto the physical world with precision.

• Enable holographic interfaces for collaboration and immersive experiences.

• Play parts in industries like education, retail, and healthcare through AR-enhanced tools.

Quantum computing in smartphones

With advancements like Google’s quantum chip, the first steps toward quantum-powered smartphones could emerge in 2025. Quantum technology promises to:

• Radically improve processing power and energy efficiency.

• Enable faster computations and more secure encryption.

• Lay the groundwork for a new era of mobile computing.

Battery technology revolution

Battery life has always been a pain point, but 2025 could change that. Expect to see:

• Longer-lasting power and lightning-fast charging.

• Batteries with higher energy density, bringing back the days when phones could last for days on a single charge.

The advancements on the horizon for 2025 are nothing short of transformative. From quantum computing and rollable displays to AI-driven personalization and sustainable designs, smartphones are poised to become even more integral to our daily lives.

At dbfb, we’re excited to see how these advancements shape the future of connectivity and communication. Let’s embrace the journey ahead in 2025 together!

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been a reliable friend for global communications for a long time. But as we’re moving towards newer and more flexible options like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), it seems the big switch from PSTN isn’t happening as fast as expected. It has recently been announced that the BT Openreach PSTN switch-off has been pushed back to the end of January 2027. This might seem like a bit of a breather for some, but really, it’s a bit of a missed opportunity for many businesses. Here’s a quick rundown on why jumping onto the VoIP bandwagon sooner rather than later could be a smart move for your business.

Lots of businesses stick with PSTN because it’s what they know. There’s a worry that shaking things up might lead to disruptions, not to mention the upfront costs and the hassle of training everyone up on a new system. But, clinging to this old tech might mean missing out on some benefits that VoIP has up its sleeve.

However, it is important to stress that the old services will still have to be withdrawn eventually (most lines should have transitioned before the new deadline), which is because keeping the old analogue services going would be both extremely expensive (i.e., maintaining a large network to support a minority of users) and highly risky—due to the ancient infrastructure no longer being fully supported or phased out by many manufacturers.

So why switch to VoIP?

Cost savings

VoIP can seriously cut down your phone bills since it runs over your existing internet line. This is especially great for international calls.

Scalability

VoIP is scalable, which means you can add or drop lines as your business grows or shifts, without much fuss.

Enhanced features

VoIP is packed with features like video calls, voicemail-to-email, and call forwarding—all designed to boost your team’s productivity and improve your customer service.

Flexibility

VoIP lets your team plug into your phone system from pretty much anywhere in the world. As more of us are working remotely these days, this flexibility is becoming a necessity.

By switching to VoIP now, you’re not just saving money—you’re setting your business up to adapt more smoothly to future tech. The world’s quickly moving to digital-first solutions, and getting on board now could give your business a boost.

So even though the PSTN cut-off has been delayed, don’t let that lull you into sticking with the status quo. Moving to VoIP is less about keeping up and more about staying ahead. Why not make the switch today and start transforming how your business communicates?

Get in touch with a member of our team now:

As we step into a new year, businesses across all sectors are gearing up to navigate through the ever-changing landscape of technology. While the telecoms industry is undergoing a significant transformation in 2024, the implications of these changes extend far beyond mere connectivity. In this blog, we’ll explore five key telecoms trends and how they can empower businesses to stay ahead in an era of relentless competition and economic challenges.

1. Great strides for 5G: Unlocking the full potential

By 2024, 5G is expected to be a game-changer, drastically altering the UK business landscape. Apart from its well-known features of facilitating rapid data transfers and reducing latency, 5G offers increased device capacity and consistent reliability, even in high-density environments. This development not only gives companies quick access to cloud apps and downloads, which improves operational effectiveness, but it also acts as a backup connection option, reducing the possibility of expensive outages in the event that traditional broadband infrastructure fails. Furthermore, 5G brings revolutionary features like augmented reality, which completely changes the training and customer engagement spaces. Businesses which adopt 5G establish themselves as leaders in technical advancement and get a competitive edge for a future characterised by seamless connection and

2. Cloud computing takes primetime: Revolutionising infrastructure

While cloud computing isn’t a new concept, it will play a central role in reshaping telecom operations in 2024. Telecom companies are shifting away from private data centres, embracing the cloud for improved scalability and rapid response to demand fluctuations. This transition enables businesses to access and scale resources instantly, eliminating the need for substantial upfront investments in hardware. Moreover, the move to the cloud fosters remote collaboration, creating a more agile and globally connected workforce. Cloud computing is set to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance profitability, making the industry more agile in the face of economic uncertainties.

3. AI-Assisted customer service: A shift in experience

Exceptional customer service is paramount in the competitive business landscape, and in 2024, businesses can look ahead to integrating AI into customer support to deliver instant and accurate responses. AI-driven customer service enhances the overall support experience for customers and stakeholders, offering round-the-clock assistance. Machine learning algorithms analyse customer data, enabling businesses to anticipate needs, tailor recommendations, and improve customer satisfaction, leading to enhanced brand loyalty.

4. Machine learning and AI-assisted network operations: Paving the way for efficiency

In tandem with AI for customer service, AI algorithms and machine learning will optimise network traffic and enhance efficiency. This powerful combination predicts usage patterns, adapts to fluctuating demands, and reconfigures networks accordingly. Additionally, AI will play a role in preventive and predictive maintenance, ensuring reliable networks and informed decision-making. This transformative approach not only enhances network reliability but also empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions, fostering a more agile and competitive operational environment.

5: Increased cyber-attacks: A call for robust cybersecurity

As digital and cloud-based solutions become more integral to businesses, the need for cybersecurity is paramount. The rapid rise of 5G will undoubtedly bring increased security threats, requiring heightened cybersecurity efforts to ensure customer and business data is fully protected. Telecom providers are focusing on strengthening threat detection, enhancing incident response methods, and implementing prevention measures to secure their customers’ businesses. Tools like blockchain technology play a crucial role in enhancing security through third-party collaborations, and can help lower costs for providers and customers alike. By eliminating central points of vulnerability, businesses can establish a robust defence against cyber threats, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality in an interconnected digital landscape.

In summary, the ways in which we communicate will continue to see significant transformation over the coming years, and businesses can reap the benefits by embracing these trends. These innovations pave the way for resilient and future-ready organisations. So, stay connected, stay secure, and embark on this exciting journey into the future of communications!

At dbfb, we reflect on our remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a regional tech powerhouse. Founded by visionaries Brian Kingston and Bill Oliver 25 years ago, our story is one of constant evolution and unwavering dedication to our community and customers. As we look ahead to an exciting future, we’re ready to meet any challenges that come our way.

From Database for Business to Tech Leader

Our journey began as Database for Business (dbfb), specialising in mobile phones and airtime. Today, we stand as one of the region’s premier independent technology providers. Our reputation spans beyond mobile solutions, encompassing connectivity, cloud telephony, and comprehensive IT solutions. Notably, we’ve played a pivotal role in bringing high-speed fibre optics to Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, laying the foundation for a connected world. Looking forward, we’re embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to streamline operations for the benefit of our valued customers.

Local Commitment and Expertise

When Simon Pickering joined us as Managing Director in 2016, two things drew him to dbfb. Firstly, our wholesale approach, granting us control over pricing and contract terms, and secondly, our roots as a local business serving local customers. Simon reflects on the journey, saying, “Bill and Brian saw an opportunity and took it. In those days, mobile phones were used for calls and texting, and no one could have imagined in 1998 where all this would end up. Who could have foreseen the likes of the iPhone and modern-day functionality?”

Unrivalled Product Selection and Expertise

As an independent provider, we have the freedom to select products from a wide range of options, ensuring tailored solutions for all our customers. Our commitment to expertise is evident at our new customer centre in our expanded Moulton Park offices. Here, we showcase a core list of solutions, all of which we use daily in our own operations. Simon emphasises, “Customers need to trust us – they want us to work with them to implement solutions that enhance their processes and productivity.”

Adapting to Change and Supporting Our Community

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated technology adoption, and we were there to guide businesses and individuals through this transformation. “People want us to educate them on how to leverage technology for the benefit of their businesses and employees,” says Simon.

In 2017, our partnership with CityFibre brought ultrafast fibre connectivity to Northamptonshire businesses, revolutionising connectivity for homes and businesses alike. This laid the foundation for 5G capabilities. “We were at the forefront of the full-fibre revolution,” Simon proudly states.

The Future: Growth, Commitment, and Sustainability

Looking forward, we’re committed to embracing the next technological revolution – AI. While human interaction remains vital, we aim to harness AI’s power to increase productivity for both our customers and ourselves.

In the past two years, we’ve exceeded our five-year plan, growing from a £2.5 million turnover company with 12 team members to a £12 million turnover business employing 50 individuals. The future holds exciting prospects, with ambitious growth goals on the horizon.

Our commitment to community remains unwavering. We continue to support Cynthia Spencer Hospice in memory of our co-founder, Bill Oliver. Additionally, we back the academies at Northamptonshire County Cricket and Northampton Town FC and are exploring apprenticeship partnerships to nurture local talent.

As Simon Pickering aptly puts it, “It is important to us to put something back into the local community.” Our commitment to sustainability is steadfast, recognising that even small businesses must consider their impact on the world. “Businesses that don’t take these issues seriously will face challenges in the coming years,” says Simon.

We remain resolute in our vision for the future, summarised in our straightforward business goals:

• SME Dominance: Establishing a dominant presence in the regional SME marketplace.
• Enterprise Excellence: Pioneering innovation, delivering industry-leading services, and offering flexible contractual arrangements.
• Framework Success: Proudly securing a place on the Crown Commercial Services Network 3 framework to serve the public sector.
• Acquisition Drive: Commitment to ongoing business growth, expanding regional influence.

With unwavering dedication to growth, flexibility, competitiveness, and local service, dbfb is poised to continue its legacy of excellence for the next 25 years and beyond.

The road to running any business is never smooth.

It requires a significant amount of hard work, determination, and persistence. However, even with all of these attributes, there are still times when the future of a business can be uncertain.

Richard Osbourne, of UK Business Forum, caught up with our MD Simon Pickering, to find out how he nearly lost it all – but had the drive to continue and as he says ‘go again!’

At dbfb, our approach to helping businesses, of all sizes, remains the same – we do what is best for you, helping you to understand all the options available to keep your business communicating, thriving and growing! 

Discover more about our communication solutions for SME and Enterprise businesses. 

Technology is what we do. People and platforms is how we do it.

At dbfb, we have decided to end our relationship with the cyber security company Kaspersky. We feel that in light of the ongoing Russia/Ukraine conflict, it would disagree with our morale makeup to continue in this relationship.

We are currently exploring new providers that can deliver cloud security to our existing and new customers. With this issue being morally based and not capability based, we have no concerns about keeping our customers with Kaspersky, until we swiftly find a suitable and alternative provider.

Our customers security and satisfaction are of the utmost importance to us. Therefore, it goes without saying that there will be no charge to customers when we migrate to a new provider.

If you’d like to know more, please get in touch by emailing delight@dbfb.co.uk or calling 01604 673320

Switch on before you’re switched off.

You may be wondering why increasing numbers of UK businesses are moving to cloud telephony solutions (also known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)?  The answer is simple…the ‘BIG SWITCH OFF’ is coming!

What’s changing?

In 2017, BT Openreach announced it intention to switch off traditional landlines by 2025. This is commonly referred to as the Public Switch Telephone Network switch off (PSTN switch off) and the Integrated Services Digital Network switch off  (ISDN switch off).

From 2023 businesses won’t be able to order new PSTN or ISDN services at all and by 2025 every phone line in the UK will be digital. This means all calls will be routed over the internet, leaving your existing telephony solution obsolete.

What’s the alternative?

Businesses all over the UK are transitioning to VoIP solutions, which use your internet connection to transmit voice calls. This is a much better alternative to traditional landlines and it will be the industry standard for years to come.

While there are many benefits of moving from an analogue phone system to a new VoIP solution, the main benefit is enabling business continuity with a fully integrated communications system – working not in silo but with your other business systems. 

Why is VoIP better than traditional landlines?

VoIP solutions offer a range of advantages over traditional landlines, including:

• Scalable – it grows with your business and adjusts to your needs.
• Flexible – it doesn’t tie you to a physical location.
• Cost effective – there are no initial and ongoing maintenance costs.
• Futureproof – it won’t become obsolete for a long time.

As a communications company specialising in telephony, connectivity and IT solutions we want to help your businesses make the move to VoIP, easily and for less!

We can also manage your switch end-to-end, taking the hassle out of the move. Our technology specialists take the time to understand your business and recommend solutions that will work for you. We don’t believe in one solution fits all and will design a bespoke solutions that is with you for the long-term. 

We’re excited to share that we have extended and broadened our partnership with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club – in time for the new season!

We’re happy to become the ‘Official Partner of the Player Pathway and Academy’ as well as continue to be the ‘Player Pathway Partner’ (as we have been for several years), with another four-year commitment to supporting the club.

It is very important for us to support local sports clubs, and there is no better opportunity than to support the Northamptonshire Academy and Pathway players. 
As well as sponsoring the next generation of Northamptonshire Cricket talent, we’ve become the County’s telecommunications provider, installing a new lease line and phone system at The County Ground. 

Learn more about our telephony solutions or follow more about our work in the community.

“It is great to see dbfb expand their partnership with us, lending their support to the Pathway and Academy players, as well as helping the club with our telecommunications”.

“They are a fantastic company that have done a lot of great work supporting local businesses and sports clubs. Of course, one of our key goals as a club is to nurture talent and having dbfb’s support on this is invaluable. We very much look forward to working with their team over the next four years”.

Daniel Vernon, Commercial Manager at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club.

The telecommunication industry is ever growing and changing. Despite the pandemic, the industry it is still generating over £31 billion pounds in the UK alone.

The pandemic hasn’t affected this growth either, with people now remote and hybrid working. It means businesses are changing their models and demanding new services in order to keep up with the new modern way of working. Technology was (and is) front and centre to have businesses run like clockwork. And that isn’t going to change anytime soon.

The past few years have been some of the most difficult times for local businesses, through the pandemic we’ve become aware of how important it is to support them and how a little goes a long way. It is still interesting though, to see how many businesses are still choosing large telecommunications providers to run their services. But why? Is it because their brand is known, or they run larger marketing campaigns? Or is it their low upfront monthly costs?

While these reasons might entice you in, there are more benefits to choosing local, SME businesses.

Here’s why you should skip large, and choose local.

Customer-focused and personal. 

Larger telecommunication companies often manage their customers with a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. We know that every customer requires different needs, and we can tailor each service to make sure that our solutions are bespoke and suited for them. We can be flexible with contracts, as customer satisfaction is always put first, and each service is unique to make sure all the boxes have been ticked. 

Giving back to the community.

As a local business grows, more money can be invested back into the community. At dbfb we believe in giving back to those around us, as a way of saying thank you for the support we get. Local businesses have the chance to give back to causes that matter, whether it is through contributing to local charities or sponsoring local networking events and sports teams. All of these things can help to build a stronger community and boost the local economy. 

Hiring local people.

Supporting a local business will eventually lead to needing more local people to join the team. Where there is in an increase in demand, there is an increase in supply. Choosing a local business like dbfb means that you can help to increase local employment rates in the area you live, by increasing the need for more workers.

Local businesses don’t just build a stronger economy, but a stronger community.

“By choosing local businesses as your providers, you’re supporting your local economy more than you probably realise. When businesses choose us, we can continue to reinvest back into the local community, whether that’s through, hiring and creating job opportunities, contributing to local charities such as Cynthia Spencer and The Hope Centre, or sponsoring local business networking events or sports clubs such as Northampton Football Club and The Northamptonshire County Cricket Club – it all helps boost the local economy.”

Simon Pickering, Managing Director at dbfb

With technology changing now more than ever, and more services shifting on to the cloud, now is a great time to look at your options for communication needs. We’ve helped over 250 businesses with bespoke solutions to ensure they can run efficiently and productively and as well as supporting them to grow. We also believe in supporting and give back to our local community, to say thank you for supporting us. So, give back and choose small and local businesses today.

If you want to find out more about us get in touch at discover@dbfb.co.uk