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A fascinating report by the United Kingdom’s version of the Federal Communications Commission paints a vivid picture of a technology-driven world right out of a Vernor Vinge novel: Bluetooth implants in your body warning doctors of impending heart attacks; wireless sensors in cars slamming on the brakes before collisions; reminders from doctors to take medications based on wireless vital sign readings.

The Office of Communications, known as Ofcom, is the UK’s independent regulator of competition in its television, radio, telecom and wireless communications industries. Its new report, “Tomorrow’s Wireless World,” features technology innovations being tested in some British cities and it already has some privacy advocates shouting about a digital Big Brother. But the tone of the report is generally positive about the role technology could play in saving lives, trimming health care costs and making travel safer and greener. 

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Ofcom, the UK Office of Communications has confirmed plans that they aim to allow cellular communications on board UK aircraft. The plans will have to first go through the Civil Aviation Authority, and then the scheme may ‘take off’ in planes around Europe. Unfortunately, plans haven’t been confirmed for those of you the other side of the Atlantic.

The calling will work by using an onboard base station, a unit which connects to a satellite and will be turned on above 3,000 feet, as to avoid interference with ground networks. The service will be charged at the users standard network rate, which should mean business and personal users can enjoy increased productivity on flights. For the others that want some peace and quiet: unlucky.

Read [Ofcom]