The evolution of AI is truly mind-blowing

The evolution of AI is truly mind-blowing

Patrick Johansson, President, Ericsson Africa and Middle East

AI is key to developing the networks of tomorrow. It enhances communication technologies, supports extended reality, reduced capability devices, and boosts network energy efficiency. AI has been critical in the evolution of mobile connectivity, advancing the shift from best-effort mobile broadband to more predictable, performance-oriented services.

As providers in 5G technology, we are excited about AI’s potential and have been at the forefront of its adoption. For decades, we have leveraged AI-powered solutions to manage complex network data, predict patterns, and optimise network performance.

AI-driven predictive network management technology provides comprehensive machine learning-based diagnostics, root cause analysis, and actionable recommendations to enhance user experiences. This not only helps communication service providers address network anomalies but also redefines how networks are operated and maintained.

AI plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable connectivity and advancing digital inclusion, particularly in line with ambitious national visions. We are deploying AI-enabled solutions to improve network performance, contribute to digital transformation, and tackle challenges unique to these markets.

As 5G and ICT transition to cloud and edge computing, new vulnerabilities are emerging. According to a report by Sapio Research and Deep Instinct, 85% of security professionals attribute the rise in attacks to generative AI. Mitigating these threats will require advanced AI-driven security solutions.

Trustworthiness also remains a challenge. AI’s reliance on probabilistic models can create uncertainty, and transparency around AI processes is crucial. To realise the full potential of AI, trust needs to be established in the development, deployment, and use of AI.

This is why it is critical for us to build human trust in AI, addressing aspects spanning from explainability and human oversight to security and built-in safety mechanisms. Trustworthiness is a prerequisite for AI, and we are building it into the system by design.

Unlocking AI’s full potential will require partnerships across industries to develop secure and trustworthy solutions. As we move toward an era where networks can sense, compute, learn, and act autonomously, AI will be central to managing the explosion of data generated by billions of connected devices.

This hyperconnected future will depend on strong partnerships between ICT companies and CSPs, transforming business and society through secure, efficient, and sustainable communication services.

As one of the greatest transformative forces of our time, AI is revolutionising all sectors including telecommunications. Its unprecedented efficiency and automation capabilities are reshaping the telecommunications industry, driving agility, and enabling predictive, proactive operations. From voice-activated assistants such as Siri to self-driving cars, artificial intelligence, AI is revolutionising the way we live and work.

Have you ever stopped to think about its impact on mobile connectivity, especially as 5G subscriptions will reach close to 5.6 billion in 2029? What if your smartphone could predict your data usage and optimise your network connection in real time?

The evolution of AI is truly mind-blowing, with incredible possibilities on the horizon. Many service providers are leveraging AI to automate tasks and make data-driven decisions.

Browse our latest issue

Intelligent CIO Middle East

View Magazine Archive