In the coming years, we are going to see more and more smart devices connecting to mobile and broadband networks. BT Group is one of the major players in this space and is at the heart of the growing tech sector in Wales.

BT Group employs around 4,400 people in Wales and spends £300m with Welsh suppliers, making it one of the largest private sector employers and investors in the country. Its contribution to the Welsh economy is now heading towards the £1bn mark. As well as being the first provider in the UK to launch 5G through BT’s EE – including in Cardiff – BT recently announced some big changes that will have a positive impact for homes and businesses across Wales.

In the next few years, we expect to see more and more smart devices connecting to mobile and broadband networks. BT Group is one of the major players in this space and is at the heart of the growing tech sector in Wales.

More superfast connections than ever

For consumers, the good news is that BT will be upgrading more than 40,000 customers in homes and businesses across Wales to superfast broadband by this summer, at no extra cost.

As well as getting people onto the fastest, most reliable networks, BT also wants to make sure no one is left behind in this new digital era. There is evidence to suggest that a large number of people and businesses now lack the essential digital skills they need to succeed.

That's why it has also launched a new digital skills programme, Skills for Tomorrow, to provide free training to 10 million people across the UK. The programme will help provide the skills that families and businesses in Wales need to make the most of today’s connected world. It gives people the chance to learn new skills in daily and work life, including business, and as parents and teachers. One of the most important areas is managing your money, with tips for online banking and using spreadsheets to help you budget.

Keeping yourself safe online is another area covered by the initiative, with attention paid to countering the threat of viruses, hackers, trolls and frauds.

Events and programmes will be taking place across Wales over the coming years. The company also introduced a new brand line for BT, Beyond Limits, symbolised by a new logo.

BT will continue to make improvements to its service as the services it provides are increasing in demand continually. The number of smart devices connected in the home is expected to grow from five today, to more than 100 in the next few years.

It is an exciting time for emerging technologies, which will have a big impact on Wales and BT customers.

For more on BT in Wales, visit the website.