#Spain #Huawei #Barcelona #MWC 2025 #AI Optical Network

Huawei's Vision for AI Optical Networks

During the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 held in Barcelona, the spotlight was on Huawei's progressive vision for optical networks, articulated by Bob Chen, President of Huawei's Optical Business Product Line. This new paradigm, termed the AI Optical Network (AI ON), is set to redefine connectivity in the era dominated by artificial intelligence, promising a comprehensive enhancement in service quality characterized as '5A'.

The Emergence of AI Optical Networks

The introduction of AI ON is not just a minor upgrade; it represents a significant evolution aimed at providing next-generation connectivity suited for modern demands. Chen identified the core characteristics defining the AI era: the widespread applicability of AI, ubiquitous computing power, and the rise of AI-native systems. These developments necessitate networks capable of sensing service types and offering tailored connectivity experiences for users.

Huawei's approach to optical networks emphasizes the importance of delivering differentiated connectivity for various services, ranging from casual web browsing to high-bandwidth gaming. Chen asserted that future networks should provide guaranteed connection quality even in the face of fluctuating demands.

Key Features of AI ON

1. Awareness: Traditional optical networks lacked the ability to sense different service types. However, the future of optical networks involves accurately recognizing service requirements based on traffic patterns. This growth will ensure that specific needs for bandwidth, latency, and reliability are met, allowing for an adaptive network.

2. Always On-Demand: The shift from undifferentiated to differentiated connectivity solutions is necessary. For example, networks can tailor packages based on service needs, offering a gaming user access to a high-speed, short-duration bandwidth package.

3. Assurance: To combat issues like network congestion or faults that can compromise connectivity, future optical networks will need to guarantee quality service through stable performance regardless of changes or demands on the network. This includes minimizing latency and ensuring zero packet loss.

4. Autonomous Operations Management (OM): Moving away from a reactive approach to network management, AI ON will prioritize proactive identification and mitigation of potential issues, facilitating self-healing and optimization features across networks.

5. AI Native Capabilities: The complete integration of AI capabilities within network devices is critical. This means embedding AI functionalities across terminals, devices, and management systems to boost network intelligence. For instance, AI can help discern application types and improve device performance with efficient computing models.

The Transformative Potential of AI

In his closing remarks, Bob Chen highlighted that the AI revolution signifies an unprecedented epoch for society, offering unique opportunities for the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The comparison of 5A service quality to premium standards found in hospitality sectors underscores the importance of nurturing high-quality network connectivity.

Huawei's commitment to collaborating with partners across the industry is vital for making this vision of AI ON a reality. By prioritizing these advancements in optical networking, Huawei aims to foster a robust environment for AI growth in the future.

As we navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, Huawei positions itself not only as a telecommunications leader but as a pivotal player in shaping how connectivity will evolve alongside artificial intelligence, ultimately driving new growth and innovation in the AI era.