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Maximizing 5G Network Value: AI Synergy at MWC Barcelona 2025

Huawei's Corporate Senior Vice President, Li Peng, took the stage at MWC Barcelona 2025 to deliver an insightful keynote on the intersection of 5G networks and artificial intelligence (AI). Amidst rising technological demands, he proposed that leveraging AI can fully unlock the latent potential of mobile networks, thereby driving remarkable advancements in both Data of Usage (DOU) and Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for mobile subscribers.

Achieving Network Optimization Through AI

Li commenced his talk with a powerful assertion: "We're rapidly entering a fully intelligent world." He emphasized that as intelligent applications proliferate, the expectations placed on network infrastructures evolve accordingly. By innovating on existing 5G technology, service providers can significantly enhance the capabilities of their mobile networks. Huawei aims to collaborate with such carriers globally to fortify digital enablement and adapt to the rising prevalence of AI applications.

The transition from simple text interactions to more sophisticated human-machine interfaces (HMIs) powered by AI, especially those employing voice and gesture recognition, has introduced the necessity for enhanced latency guarantees. Li highlighted that the evolution of networks from 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) to 5G Standalone (SA), and eventually to 5G-Advanced (5G-A) is crucial for meeting these emerging needs. Leveraging innovative technologies like Control and User Plane Separation (CUPS) and Guaranteed Bit Rate (GBR), carriers can effectively minimize latency and provide targeted user experiences tailored to specific applications.

The Transformation of Content Creation and Distribution

Li also pointed to the transformative impact of AI on content production and distribution. Thanks to the advent of AI-Generated Content (AIGC), creating sophisticated 2D and 3D videos has become incredibly efficient, enabling users to generate rich media with simple commands. Coupled with AI's ability to deliver personalized recommendations, this evolution is set to escalate network traffic significantly over the upcoming years.

Next, Li presented the necessity for carriers to enhance their infrastructure through expanded spectrum and increased capacity to meet the looming demand for higher upload and download speeds that these technologies are expected to spur.

The Rising Demand for Experience-Centric Networks

With the progression of AI-integrated cloud technologies, the need for experience-centric network coverage is on the rise. Citing forecasts, Li projected that over one billion users globally would utilize cloud services by 2030, necessitating quick access to powerful cloud computing environments. This surge is also reflected in the anticipated demand for intelligent applications in transportation, requiring seamless coverage across various terrains to ensure continuous mobility experiences.

In response, carriers must adapt their deployment strategies—from rapid expansion of 5G NSA networks to the implementation of experience-oriented 5G-A networks—thus ensuring optimal service for both people and connected IoT devices.

Navigating Network Complexity with AI

Li warned of a growing complexity in network management as AI applications diversify. The traditional, resource-focused Operations Management (OM) models are giving way to application-oriented strategies. He outlined how some forward-thinking carriers are harnessing AI agents to bolster operational efficiency—using digital twin technologies for anticipating user requirements and employing machine learning for expedited troubleshooting processes, enhancing overall performance.

Embracing Monetization Opportunities

As infrastructure evolves, Li proposed that new capabilities pave the way for innovative business models. Service providers are now looking beyond simple traffic monetization to capitalize on user experiences involving speed, latency, and enhanced customer benefits.

For instance, partnerships with diverse industries have already begun to flourish in regions like China. Huawei carriers are collaborating with sectors such as insurance and hospitality, offering services through Open APIs, resulting in significant income boosts from such developments.

Conclusion: The Time for Action is Now

Li concluded with an optimistic exhortation for industry leaders: “The opportunities are huge. And the time to act is now.” With pioneers already ramping up their 5G-A deployments across numerous global cities, the momentum is building to unlock unprecedented value and reshape the landscape of mobile connectivity.

For more details on these developments and Huawei's presence at MWC, including its latest products and solutions, visit Huawei's official event site at Huawei MWC 2025.