At the recent Global MBB Forum 2024, the Global TD-LTE Initiative (GTI) heralded a significant step forward in telecommunications by formally launching a global recruitment initiative for the Intelligent RAN, Ubiquitous AI Project. This undertaking is integral to the larger 5G-A×AI Development Program, which is strategically crafted to boost the integration of 5G-Advanced (5G-A) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The initiative seeks to foster advancements in intelligent applications while capturing the synergy between these two revolutionary fields.
This project has garnered widespread backing from a diverse coalition of prominent operators, significant technology firms, and industrial stakeholders, including major players such as the GSMA, China Mobile, Telefónica, AIS, HKT, Zain, Leju Robot, and Huawei. Collectively, these organisations are embarking on a mission to delve into pioneering technologies that might yield innovative applications and unlock lucrative business prospects at the confluence of 5G and AI.
Since the introduction of 5G technology, its global presence has soared, with approximately 5.94 million 5G base stations operational and serving around 1.87 billion users at present. This rapid deployment sets the stage for the evolution of 5G-A, which is already being used commercially and contributing significant value across sectors. The amalgamation of 5G-A with AI is viewed as a transformative force capable of instigating new capabilities such as intelligent applications and enhanced automation.
In May 2024, the GTI launched the 5G-A×AI Development Program, aimed at fostering the merger of 5G-A with AI, stimulating new applications, and catalysing the evolution of the Mobile AI sector. Since its establishment in 2011, the GTI has transformed into a prominent platform for international cooperation, now comprising 146 operators and 262 industry partners. The organisation intends to drive integrated innovation across both ecosystems, ultimately supporting the digital transformation within various economic and social contexts while seeking new revenue avenues to propel industry growth.
The initiative has also attracted the engagement of over 20 operators and partners from regions including Asia, the Americas, and Europe. These participants have significantly contributed to core aspects of the program, aiding in the establishment of open innovation labs and supporting the development of practical use cases associated with 5G-A and AI integration. This cooperative framework aims to create a more interconnected ecosystem, facilitating the development of viable, scalable AI-driven applications based on 5G technology.
The 5G-A×AI Development Program has achieved notable milestones, establishing four distinct open labs designed for innovative experimentation within 5G-A and AI contexts. These labs serve as collaborative venues for industry experts, researchers, and developers, equipped with essential tools and tailored environments to explore practical applications and address challenges associated with integrating AI in Radio Access Networks (RAN).
Furthermore, in a partnership with the GSMA Foundry, the GTI has initiated a series of challenges intended to mitigate key obstacles in the integration process of 5G-A and AI. One current challenge, named the New Calling x AI Challenge, encourages participants to devise solutions that integrate AI into calling services, ultimately enhancing user experiences and connectivity. Future initiatives, such as the Wireless Network Intelligence Challenge, will seek innovative applications of AI to improve network intelligence.
High-value use cases are being explored across various industries, including daily life applications, heavy industry solutions, energy systems, transportation, and utilities. By developing scalable business models grounded in practical case studies, the 5G-A×AI Development Program is poised to unearth substantial benefits, enhancing operational efficiency and creating new revenue streams.
Key objectives of the Intelligent RAN, Ubiquitous AI Project include the optimisation of network performance through the application of AI, enhancing operational efficiencies and overall user experience. This integration aims to advance energy efficiency and lead to substantial operational cost reductions, aligning with broader sustainability targets.
As the industry progresses, the comprehensive efforts spearheaded by the GTI are anticipated to foster a digital transformation across global economies, promoting a future characterised by heightened connectivity, efficiency, and sustainability. The commitment to innovation and real-world applications within the 5G-A×AI Development Program is viewed as instrumental in charting the future pathways of mobile and AI technologies, propelling businesses, industries, and societies toward unprecedented opportunities.
Source: Noah Wire Services