Artificial intelligence (AI) is projected to generate up to $680 billion for the telecommunications industry over the next 15 to 20 years, according to John Hoffman, CEO of the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) Ltd.
Speaking at the 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, Hoffman highlighted that 81% of telecom operators worldwide are currently testing generative AI solutions. He noted that Chinese operators are leading in this area, supported by significant investments and a robust tech environment.
Companies like China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom have made substantial progress in AI research, impacting public services, supply chains, and healthcare. For example, an intelligent computing service platform has been established in northwest China to assist with flood control efforts, while an AI database in the southwest focuses on cultural diversity protection.
Globally, Hoffman estimated that over 150 million people could benefit from mobile big data and AI solutions in the next five years. He emphasized the need for ethical and sustainable development in AI technology, as the summit continues under the theme of building a community with a shared future in cyberspace.