The telecommunications industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by the convergence of 5G-Advanced technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and green innovations. ZTE Corporation, a leading player in this space, is at the forefront of these changes, leveraging its expertise to address the evolving demands of modern society. Li Xiaotong, Vice President of ZTE Corporation, provides insights into the challenges and breakthroughs facilitated by these advanced technologies, emphasizing ZTE’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The AI Revolution and Network Infrastructure
AI’s Impact on Network Design
The rise of AI-driven applications across various sectors has created an increasing demand for robust, flexible, and intelligent network capabilities. Li Xiaotong notes that the proliferation of AI applications, from consumer services to industrial automation, is accelerating digital transformation efforts. This surge has led to higher expectations for network performance and efficiency. Li explains that the AI era is redefining network design, necessitating substantial upgrades in network traffic handling and operational paradigms.
To address this, advanced edge computing capabilities, enhanced security measures, and sophisticated network management systems have become critical. ZTE is embedding AI-native capabilities directly into the network infrastructure to enhance resource allocation, predictive maintenance, and overall network performance. These embedded AI capabilities are designed to manage the extensive data applications generate, ensuring seamless operations even under heavy loads. By incorporating these technologies, ZTE is positioning itself as a leader in the AI-driven network revolution, meeting the demanding needs of modern applications and services.
Self-Optimizing Systems
ZTE aims to create self-optimizing systems that can adapt to real-time demands and radio environments by leveraging 5G-Advanced technologies. These systems, designed to improve network efficiency and performance, ensure networks can handle the increasing demands of AI applications. The integration of AI highlights how ZTE is innovating to meet the needs of the future. By developing systems capable of dynamic adjustments, real-time monitoring, and automated responses, ZTE is creating networks that not only perform optimally but also anticipate and mitigate potential issues.
AI-driven self-optimization results in more reliable networks, reduced downtime, and enhanced user experiences. This strategic move places ZTE at the forefront of network innovation, setting new standards for how networks operate in an AI-centric world. As the demands for network performance and efficiency continue to rise, ZTE’s approach signifies a critical advancement in ensuring that telecommunications infrastructure can keep pace with technological evolution.
Sector-Specific Network Enhancements
Consumer (B2C) Applications
In the B2C domain, the demand for immersive experiences such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is growing. Consumers seek seamless, high-quality AR and VR experiences, which require networks capable of delivering multi-gigabit speeds with ultra-low latency. Recognizing this trend, ZTE has developed advanced massive MIMO technology and mmWave solutions to meet the demand, achieving peak data rates of up to 10 Gbps in dense urban environments.
A notable example of this technology’s prowess was demonstrated during the 2024 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Sarawak. ZTE’s 5G-A wireless mobile broadcasting solution enabled stable, multi-camera wireless streaming for Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), showcasing the potential of 5G-Advanced technology in delivering high-quality consumer experiences. This demonstration highlighted not only the technical capabilities of ZTE’s solutions but also their practical applications in real-world scenarios, underscoring the company’s leadership in the 5G space.
Business (B2B) Applications
For B2B applications, the focus is on enabling Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing. Industrial IoT and automated production lines require networks with deterministic performance and ultra-high reliability. ZTE addresses these needs through its 5G-Advanced private network solutions, which offer customized slicing capabilities and edge computing integration. These solutions ensure that mission-critical applications receive the necessary resources and performance guarantees, facilitating seamless operations in industrial environments.
ZTE’s approach to B2B applications reflects a deep understanding of the specific demands of various industrial sectors. By providing networks that can handle the rigorous requirements of automated and interconnected systems, ZTE is driving the adoption of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 principles. This focus on reliability and customization ensures that businesses can leverage the full potential of 5G technology, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency on a large scale.
Societal (B2X) Applications
In the broader B2X domain, which includes societal applications, ubiquitous connectivity is crucial. From smart cities to autonomous vehicles, there is a need for networks capable of seamless, widespread coverage while maintaining consistent performance. ZTE’s approach involves advanced RAN solutions for terrestrial coverage, emerging non-terrestrial network (NTN) capabilities for connecting remote and underserved areas, and integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) technologies. One compelling application of ISAC technology is enhancing waterway safety by preventing vessel collisions in poor visibility.
This innovative solution was successfully implemented in Turkey in partnership with Türk Telekom, marking Europe’s first application of such technology. The ability to enhance situational awareness and communication in critical areas demonstrates the tangible benefits of ZTE’s advanced technologies. This implementation showcases how ZTE’s innovations extend beyond traditional telecommunications, addressing broader societal challenges and contributing to safer, more connected communities.
Network Efficiency and Green Innovation
Energy Efficiency Initiatives
As the demand for network services grows, so does the need for energy efficiency and sustainable operations. Li highlights ZTE’s commitment to green innovation, noting that energy efficiency is critical for both environmental sustainability and network economics. ZTE’s multifaceted approach to energy efficiency includes hardware innovations, intelligent power management, and renewable energy integration. By focusing on these areas, ZTE aims to reduce the environmental impact of its operations while ensuring cost-effective network performance.
ZTE’s latest radio units, built on the Super-N 2.0 platform, have achieved significant energy efficiency gains, reducing RRU power consumption by up to 35% compared to industry standards. This reduction lowers operational costs for operators and significantly diminishes the carbon footprint of network operations. Additionally, ZTE’s AI-driven power management solutions enable dynamic adjustments based on traffic patterns and network load, achieving substantial energy savings without compromising performance.
AI-Driven Power Management
Moreover, ZTE’s AI-driven power management solutions take energy efficiency to the next level by allowing for real-time adjustments tailored to current network demands. By intelligently managing power consumption and dynamically shutting down or reducing power to underutilized network elements, ZTE’s approach significantly enhances energy savings. This method ensures that performance is not compromised while still achieving environmental and economic benefits.
The integration of AI in power management marks a significant step towards smarter, more sustainable network operations. ZTE’s commitment to green innovation reflects its dedication to developing technologies that align with global sustainability goals. By prioritizing energy efficiency, ZTE is setting a standard for others in the telecommunications industry, demonstrating that technological advancement and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Future of Integrated Communication and Computing
Convergence of Communication and Computing
Li envisions a future where the integration of communication and computing infrastructures becomes a prevailing trend. This convergence will redefine traditional telecom networks and computing platforms, blurring the lines between the two and creating networks that actively participate in processing and decision-making. This integration represents a significant shift in how networks and computing systems are designed and operated, offering new possibilities for innovation and efficiency.
ZTE’s forward-thinking approach aims to harness the combined power of communication and computing to create more intelligent and adaptive networks. By bringing these infrastructures closer together, ZTE enables more efficient data processing and faster response times, enhancing the overall performance of network operations. This vision sets the stage for a new era in telecommunications, where the boundaries between communication and computation are increasingly seamless.
ZTE’s 5G-Advanced BBU
The telecommunications sector is experiencing a major transformation brought about by the integration of 5G-Advanced technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and eco-friendly innovations. At the helm of these changes is ZTE Corporation, a key player in the industry, which is leveraging its deep expertise to meet the shifting demands of contemporary society. Li Xiaotong, who serves as Vice President of ZTE Corporation, sheds light on the challenges and breakthroughs made possible by these cutting-edge technologies. He emphasizes ZTE’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. Under Li’s guidance, ZTE aims to set new standards in the telecommunications field by ensuring their solutions are not only advanced and efficient but also environmentally responsible. This comprehensive approach positions ZTE as a leader driving the future of telecommunications while addressing the intricate needs and expectations of a rapidly evolving world.