Large-Scale AI in Telecom: Charting the Roadmap for Innovation, Scalability, and Enhanced Digital Experiences

This white paper discusses the role of large-scale AI in the telecommunications industry, with a specific focus on the potential of generative AI to revolutionize network functions and user experiences, especially in the context of 6G systems. It highlights the development and deployment of Large Telecom Models (LTMs), which are tailored AI models designed to address the complex challenges faced by modern telecom networks. The paper covers a wide range of topics, from the architecture and deployment strategies of LTMs to their applications in network management, resource allocation, and optimization. It also explores the regulatory, ethical, and standardization considerations for LTMs, offering insights into their future integration into telecom infrastructure. The goal is to provide a comprehensive roadmap for the adoption of LTMs to enhance scalability, performance, and user-centric innovation in telecom networks.

Telecom AI Native Systems in the Age of Generative AI -- An Engineering Perspective

The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in generative AI and foundational models (FMs), have ushered in transformative changes across various industries. Large language models (LLMs), a type of FM, have demonstrated their prowess in natural language processing tasks and content generation, revolutionizing how we interact with software products and services. This article explores the integration of FMs in the telecommunications industry, shedding light on the concept of AI native telco, where AI is seamlessly woven into the fabric of telecom products. It delves into the engineering considerations and unique challenges associated with implementing FMs into the software life cycle, emphasizing the need for AI native-first approaches. Despite the enormous potential of FMs, ethical, regulatory, and operational challenges require careful consideration, especially in mission-critical telecom contexts. As the telecom industry seeks to harness the power of AI, a comprehensive understanding of these challenges is vital to thrive in a fiercely competitive market.