Telecom operators face growing pressure to evolve. Traditional network operations no longer meet the demands of today’s digital economy. AI and 5G are reshaping expectations, yet monetization remains a challenge. Operators are striving to align infrastructure with enterprise needs while building trust and delivering consistent performance.
At FutureNet World in London, leaders examined how telcos can transform from utility providers to strategic partners. Discussions focused on AI-driven networks, shifting business models, and unlocking long-promised 5G value. The path forward is clear: telcos must act now to stay relevant.
AI Accelerates a Strategic Transformation
Telecom networks are shifting from vertical silos to horizontal capabilities. This realignment is crucial for matching digital market speed. Industry experts emphasized the importance of embracing an outside-in approach.
AI plays a central role in enabling this shift by improving automation, quality, and responsiveness. Yet transformation is more than technical—it requires rethinking the telco identity. For operators, it’s no longer just about connectivity. It’s about becoming enablers of digital resilience.
5G’s Promise Remains Unfulfilled—For Now
Though the infrastructure for 5G Standalone is ready, most operators still struggle to monetize its full capabilities. Industrial clients are beginning to recognize connectivity’s strategic value. However, delivering differentiated services beyond basic access remains difficult. AI has driven new use cases and traffic types, but the network core still relies on legacy models. Operators must now adjust both the access and backbone networks to meet rising demand for AI-fueled services.
Bridging the Experience and Monetization Gap
Some leaders remain optimistic about the progress made. Use cases like private 5G networks in manufacturing show potential for ROI. However, the end-user experience still falls short in reliability and availability. Enterprise customers need guaranteed service levels, especially in mission-critical applications. The challenge lies in delivering these assurances while closing the “value gap” between network costs and strategic benefits.
Regaining the Value Narrative
Telcos have long ceded the innovation narrative to hyperscalers. Now, with 5G SA and AI, they have a chance to reclaim it. Connectivity powers essential services from emergency response to financial systems. Enterprises are realizing that networks are not utilities—they are lifelines. As procurement strategies shift toward resilience and differentiation, telcos must reassert their role as trusted partners.
From Utility to Strategic Asset
Connectivity is now recognized as more vital than ever. A recent power outage in Spain underscored this when mobile services failed before electricity. That moment captured the sector’s importance. However, telcos must continue to improve performance, reliability, and quality-of-service to cement their place. The opportunity exists—but so does the responsibility to deliver.
Source: https://www.rcrwireless.com/20250507/5g/reinvent-telecom-5g-ai
