Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize the telecommunications industry, generating up to $680 billion over the next 20 years, according to John Hoffman, CEO of the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA). Speaking at the 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit in China’s Zhejiang Province, Hoffman highlighted the transformative potential of AI for businesses and society.
“AI is emerging as a powerful force with the potential to transform business and society on an unprecedented scale,” Hoffman stated, citing a McKinsey report. He noted that 81% of telecom operators worldwide are testing generative AI solutions.
Hoffman praised Chinese telecom operators as leaders in this space. “Chinese operators are one of the leaders in the space, with big investments, strong government support, and a booming tech landscape,” he said. Companies like China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom have made significant advancements in AI research and applications, transforming public services, supply chains, and healthcare.
For example, an intelligent computing service platform has been launched in northwest China to assist in flood control efforts, and an AI database in the southwest is dedicated to protecting and developing cultural diversity.
Globally, over 150 million people could see their lives improved by mobile big data and AI solutions in the next five years, according to Hoffman. However, he emphasized that with the opportunities AI brings, there is also a responsibility to focus on the ethical and sustainable development of this technology.
The summit, themed “Embracing a People-centered and AI-for-good Digital Future: Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace,” continues until Friday.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
