AI technologies, including generative AI (genAI), are reshaping the telecom business in Europe. The AI in the European telecom industry is driving remarkable advancements as operators leverage these technologies to optimize networks, enhance security, and improve customer service, according to GSMA‘s latest report.

European operators are at the forefront of AI and generative AI (genAI) development, with over a third (36%) having widely deployed genAI across multiple business areas. The report spotlights recent applications covering network optimisation, security enhancement and customer service improvements from European operators, including Deutsche Telekom, EE, Orange and Vodafone.

Key AI developments

Network Optimization and Reliability

Orange: Integrated Augtera’s AI-driven network operations platform into its operation center in April 2024. This reduces daily alarm alerts by 70 percent and enables predictive responses to network incidents across 100+ countries.

EE: Deployed ML and AI in its 5G Standalone (SA) network launched in 15 UK cities. AI optimizes network reliability and energy efficiency, with the “Network Boost” feature enhancing performance in congested areas.

Customer Service Innovation

Vodafone: Introduced a GenAI-powered chatbot for Voxi customers in early 2024, developed in collaboration with Accenture using OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This initiative supports interactive customer experiences and aligns with Vodafone’s 10-year partnership with Microsoft for AI-driven digital transformation.

AI for Cybersecurity

Deutsche Telekom: Utilizes in-house AI technology to automate analysis of 1 billion daily security-related data points, rapidly identifying cyberattacks. The AI has been operational for over two years, developed with Telekom Innovation Laboratories.

Partnerships Driving AI Innovation

Telefonica: Partnered with Matsuko and Nvidia for holographic meetings and integrated Microsoft’s Azure AI Studio into its Kernel platform to streamline genAI workflows.

Deutsche Telekom: A member of the Global Telco AI Alliance, collaborating with multinational partners to enhance telecom-specific large language models (LLMs).

AI-Ready Networks

Operators recognize the importance of investing in edge computing for AI inferencing, a key 5G monetization opportunity. However, challenges like cloud capacity, funding, and skill shortages persist.

Ethical AI Adoption

The telecom industry emphasizes responsible AI practices aligned with the EU’s AI Act. Initiatives like the GSMA Responsible AI Maturity Roadmap and GSMA-IBM training programs support ethical AI integration and skills development.

European mobile operators are at the forefront of AI adoption, combining advanced technology, strategic partnerships, and ethical practices to drive innovation while addressing challenges like resource constraints and skill shortages.

Conclusion about AI in the European telecom industry

In conclusion, European mobile operators are redefining the telecom industry by integrating AI and generative AI (genAI) into their operations, as highlighted by GSMA’s latest report. By harnessing AI’s transformative capabilities, operators like Deutsche Telekom, EE, Orange, and Vodafone are not only optimizing network performance, enhancing security measures, and revolutionizing customer service but also setting global benchmarks for AI adoption in telecommunications. Strategic partnerships with technology leaders and a commitment to ethical AI practices further underscore Europe’s leadership in this domain. Despite challenges like resource limitations and skill gaps, these operators remain steadfast in leveraging AI-driven innovations to enhance connectivity, drive efficiency, and deliver exceptional experiences to consumers. As Europe continues to lead the charge, the telecom sector stands as a testament to AI’s potential in shaping a smarter, more connected future.