#Spain #Barcelona #GSMA #AI Calling #MWC 2026

Introduction

During the recent 5G Futures Summit at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona, GSMA launched a transformative white paper detailing innovative specifications for AI Calling applications. This development marks a significant milestone in mobile communications, as it aims to redefine the user experience through native voice services integrated with artificial intelligence (AI).

The Emergence of AI in Mobile Voice

The white paper outlines the evolution of mobile voice services from traditional calls to advanced AI-powered communication solutions. In this new era, mobile operators are harnessing the capabilities of AI and 5G-A synergy to enhance their native voice services. By embedding AI algorithms directly into the existing Integrated Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) voice networks, operators are paving the way for a future where calling experiences are not just enhanced but also interactive and intelligent.

Key Features of the GSMA White Paper

The document elaborates on numerous aspects of AI Calling, focusing on application scenarios and emerging business models. One highlighted feature is AI-based noise reduction, a technology that minimizes background noise in various environments—be it crowded streets, bustling offices, or noisy construction sites. Such advancements offer clearer communication, enhancing the overall quality of native calls woven into the user experience.

AI interactive calling is another groundbreaking application mentioned in the white paper. This feature employs real-time translation capabilities, breaking down language barriers, which is particularly beneficial for business professionals engaged in international calls and tourists navigating foreign environments. Furthermore, it assists individuals with hearing impairments, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity.

Enhancing Business Models

As AI technologies evolve, so do the business models around voice services. The GSMA white paper suggests that operators can enrich user experiences by infusing AI capabilities into their native voice offerings. For a subscription fee, users can access these enhanced functionalities during their everyday calls, shifting the focus from mere data monetization to a multidimensional experience-driven revenue model.

However, this transformation does present a challenge for operators: measuring user experience under the new AI Calling framework. The white paper proposes a comprehensive evaluation model that includes traditional indicators—Quality of Experience (QoE), Quality of Service (QoS), and coverage—alongside new metrics focused on AI-driven experiences, such as immersive and interactive calling.

The Road Ahead for AI Calling

To facilitate the integration of AI solutions into voice networks, operators are urged to develop new interaction channels and capabilities, such as Data Channels (DC) and Video Channels (VC). These innovations will enable functionalities such as real-time interaction with agents, screen sharing, and enhanced user engagement.

To ensure that these AI advancements translate into tangible benefits for users, it's critical to develop quality indicators that accurately reflect the capabilities of AI models and the overall network performance. The white paper advocates for industry collaboration to create standards that link essential Quality Key Indicators (KQIs) for AI applications to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) within network infrastructures.

Conclusion

The GSMA’s initiative at MWC 2026 marks a pivotal shift towards an AI-centric future in mobile voice communications. As the industry progresses, operators must actively participate in formulating standards that can support the growing landscape of mobile AI services. By embracing these advancements, the potential for enhanced user experiences in everyday mobile communication is vast, ushering in a new era where AI is seamlessly integrated into our calling experiences.

A Call for Collaboration

With the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) initiating the P.AI-MOS project to assess multimodal AI applications, the timing for developing robust standards couldn't be better. The collective effort in setting these parameters will accelerate the creation of mobile AI experience standards, bolstering the overall growth of the mobile AI industry and ultimately enriching the user's communication experience.