In an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly shaping technology, the architecture of mobile networks is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional mobile networks, which have primarily supported basic communication methods like voice calls and text messaging, are now being redesigned to harness the potential of a massive number of AI agents. As we move into what is being termed the 'agentic era,' the demand for a core network capable of understanding intent, making smart decisions, and executing AI-driven tasks is more critical than ever.
Huawei, a prominent player in the telecommunications industry, has emphasized the need for an AI-native core network to facilitate this shift. This network promises to redefine the relationship between connectivity and smart digital services by embedding AI within network functions, interfaces, and procedures. According to Huawei's "Intelligent World 2035" report, the anticipated growth of AI agents could reach an astonishing 900 billion by 2035. This figure dwarfs the world's current population, signifying a pressing need for core network architectures adaptable to an ever-increasing volume of connections and services.
As AI terminals gain traction and integration into everyday applications, we are poised to see a rise in agentic services, fundamentally challenging the traditional role of mobile networks. The evolution from mere data transportation to service-oriented connectivity marks a new paradigm in telecommunications. Huawei has identified three key scenarios that encapsulate the potential of this new agent-enhanced network experience:
1.
Agent Over New Radio (AoNR): With portable AI devices facing inherent limitations such as battery life, processing power, and size, maintaining low end-to-end latency becomes paramount. AoNR aims to deliver exceptional user experiences while adhering to stringent task latency requirements, thus ensuring that users receive timely and efficient service.
2.
Wide-Area Computing Network (WCN): This innovative concept interlinks computing resources via mobile networks, facilitating intelligent scheduling and the provision of standardized computational services. A WCN not only enhances computing efficiency but also streamlines operations necessary for complex tasks, benefiting a wide array of users.
3.
Agent Computing Network (ACN): Complex tasks often require the collaboration of multiple AI agents across different sectors and ecosystems. To maintain security and efficiency in these scenarios, an ACN enables a secure and dynamic interaction framework among specialized agents. It incorporates features such as trusted digital identities across domains, skill-based agent discovery, and task-focused networking.
To adapt to these intricate service frameworks, the next-generation core network architecture must encompass three essential characteristics:
- - Intent-Based Interfaces: These facilitate direct communication between terminals and the network, enabling devices to relay personalized requirements related to networking, computation, and overall user experience.
- - Intelligent Processing Functions: The introduction of a dedicated Data AI Plane (DAP) alongside traditional control and user planes enriches the network architecture with an intelligence layer that interprets task intents and dynamically reallocates resources as needed.
- - AI Integration in Procedures: Deeply embedding AI decision-making capabilities into fundamental network processes allows for seamless coordination of connectivity and computational tasks, enhancing overall network performance.
Looking towards the future, Huawei envisions a two-phase evolution concerning AI-driven core networks. The initial phase focuses on augmenting user experiences by superimposing AI capabilities over existing infrastructures. In the subsequent phase, the development of AI-native core networks will emerge, fostering what Huawei refers to as 'enhanced connectivity.' This advancement transcends traditional communication roles by empowering networks to deliver not just connectivity but also facilitate collaborative computing services and enhanced task execution.
To fully embrace this transformation, a comprehensive collaboration across the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) ecosystem is vital. This synergy must span across terminals, chips, and network infrastructure to unlock unprecedented business opportunities in an increasingly intelligent era. As mobile networks step into this new frontier, the implications for industries, consumers, and technology development will be profound, shaping a landscape rich with potential and innovation.