TECHNICAL
Over 2024, we will see tier 1 operators further integrate AI into all areas of their networks, including the core, RAN, session management, security and location-based services. The most tangible benefit of this network-wide implementation will be the ability for all network areas to communicate in real-time, and adjust network functions accordingly.
including predictive maintenance and security. At a time when operators are faced with declining ARPC, minimising network operational expenditure is key. With network functions becoming increasingly virtualised, the impact of AI on networks has never been greater. The focus of 5G standalone networks, as well as the impending focus on future 6G networks, is driving this focus on AI implementation. Whilst a reduction in capital expenditure is the key motivational aspect for its implementation, the benefits it can provide to mobile subscribers and IoT users cannot be understated. Firstly, subscribers will benefit from better network performance, including data throughput and security, allowing subscribers to get more value from their mobile subscription or IoT service. Operators have been active in implementing AI in the network cores, generating substantial efficiency gains in orchestration. However, as AI increasingly penetrates the edge of networks and other use cases, savings will be found in areas such as customer support and battery life of devices.
standalone networks so far. Although many operators are investing into these networks, it is important to note that whilst commercial deployments will occur in 2024, with development starting in 2022, impacts of 5G Advanced will continue to grow in the following years. 5G Advanced will have notable impacts on certain IoT sectors; the specification’s impact on network end node-positioning capabilities will impact the development of autonomous vehicles and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Network-wide AI Implementation to Increase Efficiency of Functions, as 6G Approaches Operators have readily implemented AI in various elements of their network architecture; however, we expect network-wide AI implementation to come to the fore in 2024. This will include AI services that can access data from the entirety of the network, from the core to edge nodes, rather than in isolation.
This will enable operators to further optimise their network operations,
MARCH 2024 Volume 46 No.1
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