China Mobile's Hand-in-Hand Conference: Pioneering AI Innovations and Global Collaborations

During the recent MWC Shanghai 2025, China Mobile hosted a significant event known as the Hand-in-Hand Executive Conference. This conference, aptly themed "Hand-in-Hand, Igniting Innovation for the AI+ Future," served as a platform to unite leading operators and industry experts from over 80 countries. With around 410 participants, including prominent executives, the conference aimed to share knowledge and explore new possibilities in the rapidly evolving AI+ environment.

Established in 2015, the Hand-in-Hand Program (often referred to as the hi-H Program) symbolizes China Mobile's commitment to cultivating global partnerships within the telecommunications sector. This initiative strives to provide seamless, borderless products and services, guided by principles of openness, connection, and collaboration. Currently backed by 28 organizations worldwide, the hi-H Program has made remarkable progress in driving global digital transformation.

One of the notable achievements highlighted during the conference was the successful creation of a network that enhances availability, affordability, and accessibility of services around the globe. By collaborating with international partners, China Mobile has improved the quality of roaming services, addressing customer satisfaction across borders.

Moreover, the conference showcased the empowerment of IoT connectivity through partnerships that allow services in over 259 countries and regions. This initiative creates a robust infrastructure for intelligent logistics and the Internet of Vehicles, setting the stage for various global applications. In the realm of intelligent transformation, China Mobile has launched innovative projects such as a dedicated Video Ringback Tone zone in the Asia-Pacific and smart port projects across Europe and Latin America. These initiatives are designed to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that digital advantages reach various industries.

Mr. Wang Hua, Chairman of China Mobile International, emphasized the significance of this moment, declaring that the telecommunications industry is amidst a profound transformation, fueled by advancements in AI and complementary technologies like 5G-A and 6G. Mr. Wang reiterated China Mobile's dedication to collaborating with global telecom operators via the Hand-in-Hand Program, aiming to explore scalable models that can drive innovation and unlock new digital productivity.

During the event, esteemed speakers from leading telecom firms offered their insights into the transformative potential of AI within the industry. Dr. Johannes Opitz from Deutsche Telekom discussed how AI can enhance cross-border network protection and security. Meanwhile, Mr. Kedar Gupte from Bayobab addressed how mobile-first strategies in Africa could promote broader access to AI technologies, ultimately crafting a more inclusive digital future.

From Singtel, Mr. Lee Kwang Yong shared valuable perspectives on unlocking enterprise value by reshaping business models through AI, highlighting the new revenue pathways that AI creates. Additionally, Mr. Conor Carroll from Vodafone IoT UK illustrated how AI-enhanced operational intelligence is critical for scaling IoT solutions globally.

Marked by a hybrid ceremony combining both online and offline participation, the event marked yet another milestone in the evolution of the Hand-in-Hand Program. This initiative demonstrates the collective spirit of openness and collaboration among global telecom leaders, fostering a cooperative environment that's essential for navigating the 'AI+ era.'

As the growth of AI technologies and the deployment of 5G accelerate, China Mobile aims to reshape the global information infrastructure and redefine industry transformations. The hi-H Program is expected to evolve from mere resource connections into a model of integrated intelligence, showcasing multifaceted empowerment across diverse partnerships.

Reflecting on the ten-year journey of the hi-H Program, the conference painted a prospect of expanded cooperation and invited more telecommunications operators to join the initiative. By uniting forces and innovation, China Mobile and its partners aspire to tap into the limitless potential of the digital age and create a future marked by boundless opportunities.