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Navigating AI and APIs in Telecommunications: Critical Questions and Insights

Exploring the Landscape With Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Insights
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The telecommunications sector stands at the forefront of technological innovation, especially in the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). The World Economic Forum highlights the critical role of telecommunications in managing AI risks and ensuring the security of vital infrastructure, provided data protection and ethical considerations are prioritized.

At a time in which AI and network APIs are poised to reshape the telecommunications landscape, numerous pivotal questions emerge.

Watch on-demand webinar: Revenue Enablers for the Future Telco: APIs, AI, and Emerging Tech.

To address this curiosity and foster a deeper understanding, we’ve compiled a list of the most pressing questions currently dominating the industry discourse. Let’s embark to uncover the answers that will shape the future of telecommunications.

Q: What is Generative AI (GenAI) and how can it be used in telecommunications?

GenAI involves algorithms that enable computers to create new content from existing data. It’s being evaluated for use in enhancing customer engagement, network optimization, and creating new services.

Q: What are the investment trends in GenAI among telco companies?

More than a third of the companies surveyed are doing initial testing of GenAI models and focused proofs of concept, and almost a fifth are investing significantly in GenAI.  There’s a notable interest in developing GenAI use cases, especially in network optimization and customer service enhancements.

Q: How are telcos leveraging network APIs for monetization and service improvement?

Telcos are using network APIs to deliver new applications, improve customer experiences, and partner with developers for B2B2X applications. The adoption of 5G and network APIs is seen as a significant opportunity for monetization.

Q: What are the challenges and strategies for telco companies in adopting AI and APIs?

Challenges include skills gaps, data privacy concerns, and ensuring API interoperability. Strategies involve partnering with hyperscalers, focusing on customer-centric values like transparency and empowerment, and investing in cloud-native technologies and advanced orchestration solutions. AI requires data as an input and so breaking down data silos to create readily available single source of truth becomes critical to any AI strategy.

Q: What is the future outlook for AI and API adoption in the telco sector?

AI and API adoption is expected to drive network and operational efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and open new revenue streams through innovative services and partnerships. Collaboration with technology partners and a focus on ecosystem-driven approaches are key to leveraging these technologies effectively.

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For a deeper dive into how AI and APIs are revolutionizing the telecommunications industry, we invite you to watch our on-demand webinar. Click here to watch our on-demand webinar “Revenue Enablers for the Future of Telco: APIs, AI and Emerging Tech” to unlock valuable insights and answers to your most pressing questions.

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International Data Corporation (IDC) is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. With more than 1,300 analysts worldwide, IDC offers global, regional, and local expertise on technology and industry opportunities and trends in over 110 countries. IDC's analysis and insight helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community to make fact-based technology decisions and to achieve their key business objectives.