It seems like there's widespread discussion on how businesses can implement AI effectively. Telecommunications giants represent one category of companies investing heavily in AI. This week at the MWC Las Vegas trade show, executives explored how industry leaders are incorporating AI into their operations. During a keynote session on Tuesday at the Mobile World Congress, leaders from Nvidia and Verizon highlighted the advantages of AI in the telecommunications sector. The executives expressed strong optimism about the technology and its potential effects. Ronnie Vasishta, senior vice president of telecom at Nvidia, remarked, "There has never been a better or more exciting time to be part of the telecommunications industry. AI will transform telecommunications, and in turn, telecommunications will redefine AI. " Vasishta identified several applications for AI in telecom firms, such as enhancing customer service, managing network operations, and developing digital assistants. Additionally, some telecommunications companies are seizing the chance to turn data centers into "AI factories, " designed to provide computing power for AI models. For instance, Verizon's facility processes over 70 billion data points daily from more than 30, 000 distinct data sources, according to Shankar Arumugavelu, executive vice president and president of Verizon Global Services. "The telecommunications industry uniquely benefits from its extensive data and network capabilities, giving it a specific edge to harness these generative AI opportunities, " Vasishta explained. Verizon employs AI to "plan, construct, and manage our network; offer distinct experiences to customers and employees; streamline internal processes; and enhance operational efficiencies, " Arumugavelu noted. One implementation of AI involves using computer vision technology, enabling systems to analyze and identify subjects in images and videos for intelligent geospatial planning of cell sites. "By optimizing our network density effectively and efficiently, AI aids in energy optimization and predictive maintenance, " he added. Additionally, Verizon is developing a fully automated supply chain digital twin to track inventory levels, according to Arumugavelu, and is applying AI for workforce management. "Using predictive market demand, we can proactively adjust staffing levels across our distribution channels, " he explained.

"This includes managing our stores and call centers as well as determining where technicians should be deployed in the field. " One of the most visible implementations of AI is the digital customer service agent, which has faced some criticism. "By applying AI throughout the customer journey before they even make a call, we can assess their likely needs and suggest the next best action or offer, " Arumugavelu revealed. For customers requiring advanced support, the system utilizes "AI-enabled intelligent agent pairing" to assess over 300 data points per call, directing the customer to the most qualified representative for resolving their issue. Arumugavelu highlighted the effectiveness of these AI tools: 28, 000 Verizon representatives are trained in their use, leading to a 95% answerability rate and a 96% accuracy rate in responses. "The uncertainty surrounding AI's role in the telecommunications industry is behind us, " Vasishta stated. "Now, it’s about figuring out how to leverage AI effectively. "