Telecommunications firms are investing heavily in AI and other technologies to move away from the traditional perception of being 'dumb pipes' in the internet ecosystem.
At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, telecom CEOs discussed investments in AI, 5G/6G networks, satellite internet, and smart cities.
Global telcos like KDDI and MTN are venturing into smart city projects, satellite internet, and expanding into fintech services.
The term 'techco' has emerged, signifying telcos operating like tech companies, offering digital services and cutting-edge technology.
Telecom companies are reacting to disruptions caused by tech giants like Meta and Google, transforming their business models to stay relevant.
AI is being utilized by telecom firms to enhance network efficiency, marketing, customer service, and to explore new business opportunities.
The focus on autonomous networks, managed with limited human intervention, is gaining momentum in the industry with advancements in AI technology.
Cisco's Chief Product Officer highlighted the increasing demand for network traffic and bandwidth driven by AI advancements, emphasizing the important role of telcos.