Huawei's Vision for AI Optical Networks: A New Era of Connectivity at MWC 2025

During the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 held in Barcelona, Bob Chen, President of Huawei's Optical Business Product Line, presented a groundbreaking vision for the transformation of optical networks into what he refers to as AI Optical Network (AI ON). This ambitious transition is designed to elevate connectivity standards and foster growth in the AI era.

Defining Features of the AI Optical Network

The AI era is characterized by three significant trends: pervasive AI applications, widespread AI computing power, and an increasing number of AI-native services. To meet these demands, the future of networks needs to evolve significantly.

1. Awareness: Traditional optical networks lacked the ability to recognize service types. In contrast, future networks should be able to discern service types based on traffic patterns and data flows, thus fulfilling requirements related to bandwidth, latency, and reliability more effectively. This awareness enables networks to adapt dynamically to emerging service needs.

2. Always On Demand: Unlike past systems that provided uniform connectivity, next-gen optical networks are expected to offer differentiated connectivity tailored to specific service demands. For instance, a gamer might receive a three-hour package that guarantees 1 Gbps bandwidth. This flexibility ensures users get the service they need, when they need it.

3. Assurance: Historically, aspects like network congestion and service variances could degrade connectivity quality. Future optical networks aim to provide robust and reliable connectivity with deterministic latency and no packet loss, irrespective of network fluctuations or service demands.

4. Autonomous Operations Management (OM): Traditionally, operations management reacted to failures. However, advanced networks must proactively identify and mitigate risks before users experience disruptions.

5. AI Native Capabilities: Comprehensive AI functionalities should be embedded in network terminals and management systems. This integration would speed up the deployment of network intelligence, enhancing the performance of devices through application recognition and adaptability.

Working Towards the Future

Bob Chen emphasized that Huawei has been actively collaborating with global clients since the introduction of its AI era target network in 2024, fostering continuous innovation in optical networks. He described AI ON as a clearer evolution toward advanced connectivity characterized by the “5A” criteria, which aims to deliver outstanding service quality akin to that found in hospitality and tourism sectors.

Chen also remarked that AI represents a transformative shift for society, unlocking unprecedented opportunities within the ICT industry. The impending transition to AI Optical Networks will not only redefine connectivity but also empower businesses and individuals alike to harness the full potential of AI-driven solutions.

Conclusion

As Huawei positions itself at the forefront of the AI revolution, it is evident that the future of connectivity hinges upon intelligent optical networks capable of meeting the various demands of the AI era. By working in partnership with the industry, Huawei aims to deliver 5A-quality connectivity to drive new growth opportunities. This commitment underlines the company's ambition to shape a future where connectivity meets the demands of advanced AI technologies seamlessly.

Bob Chen, President of Huawei