Huawei Unveils Next Generation FAN Networks at MWC 2026
During the MWC Barcelona 2026 event, Huawei hosted a prominent industry forum aimed at Internet Service Providers (ISPs) under the theme "AI is Transforming the ISP Business, Driving Growth in B2H and B2B Segments." The highlight of this forum was the introduction of Huawei's revolutionary next-generation FAN (Fiber Access Network) solution, which utilizes advanced AI and fully optical network technologies to develop essential network capabilities for global ISPs in an increasingly intelligent world.
The Role of AI in ISP Evolution
In his opening speech, York Yue, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of ISP Media Business Unit, emphasized the transformative impact of AI in the ISP sector. He noted, "By 2025, AI will have progressed from concept to large-scale implementation, fundamentally changing the ISP industry." This shift not only automates network operations internally but also significantly enhances the value of B2B service offerings and creates new monetization models. Yue stressed the importance for ISPs to actively integrate AI into their core strategies for sustainable growth in an intelligent world.
Innovations for Smart Homes
As smart homes become more commonplace, the requirements for Internet connectivity increase, including needs for cloud gaming, 8K UHD video streaming, and remote conferencing. To address these escalating demands, Huawei's new FAN solution is built on a coordinated architecture combining devices, edge networks, and cloud collaboration. This comprehensive system delivers intelligent planning, connectivity, services, and maintenance, aiming to unlock new business opportunities for ISPs by enhancing user experiences.
The next-generation FAN network utilizes Huawei's OptiXstar EG series ONT devices, offering three sophisticated features:
1.
Intelligent Connectivity: This function enables seamless automatic switching across frequency bands, boasting Wi-Fi 7 speeds exceeding 2000 Mbps, ensuring full home coverage and smooth performance for demanding applications like cloud gaming and 8K video streaming.
2.
Intelligent Wi-Fi Services: Incorporating AI algorithms, this feature accurately assesses indoor conditions to maintain a secure home network.
3.
Smart Maintenance and Support: With self-diagnostic and self-optimizing capabilities, devices can autonomously identify and rectify faults, contributing to smoother and more efficient network operations.
In terms of home services, the solution employs MA5800T series OLT devices equipped with AI-driven traffic management, facilitating dedicated network pathways for various smart services with suitable service level agreements (SLAs). This structure supports dependable operations across scenarios in healthcare, entertainment, and remote meetings, ultimately enhancing overall user experiences in smart homes.
AI: The Key to Future ISP Innovations
The deep integration of AI within communication networks is now a significant catalyst for innovation and industrial advancement. Both broadband home connections and enterprise networks are reaching a turning point in their intelligent evolution.
Huang Dachuan, Huawei’s Technical Director for Telecommunications Marketing and Sales, stated, “AI is reshaping the ISP sector and propelling growth in both B2H and B2B services.” He projected that by 2030, AI terminals will be ubiquitous, helping businesses reduce costs while increasing efficiency. The introduction of intelligent and resilient networks will significantly advance service support, maintenance, and overall user experiences.
According to Huang, Huawei has developed a network architecture specifically designed for the smart world, interlinking AI cloud data centers, optical access, and IP transport capabilities through innovative technologies such as Data Center Optical Cross-Connect (DC-OXC), Segment Routing over IPv6 (SRv6), and Optical Cross-Connect (OXC). This framework enables applications such as home healthcare, smart houses, and intelligent support and maintenance, aiding clients in their journeys toward intelligent service transformation.
As a leading global ICT infrastructure provider and smart terminal manufacturer, Huawei has served over 8,000 ISPs in more than 120 countries and regions, delivering innovative products, solutions, and services. Moving forward, the company aims to further enhance the integration of AI and networking solutions while partnering with global customers to accelerate smart transformations in both broadband home networks and enterprise environments. Huawei's mission is to bring AI to every home and industry, laying robust digital foundations for the intelligent era ahead.
For more information on Huawei's digital and intelligent solutions for ISPs, visit
Huawei ISP Solutions.