IBM expands 5G deal with Verizon, Telefonica by adding cloud, AI tools

Multinational tech giant IBM Corp. is reportedly planning to offer telecom operators Telefónica, S.A. and Verizon Communications Inc. new services ranging from artificial intelligence technology to running 5G solutions through a cloud platform.

According to sources, IBM will be using the technology obtained from acquiring software firm Red Hat Inc. to offer cloud services to the telecom companies for their networks. This will further help the telecommunications giant to offer products tailored according to the customer's needs.

It is worth noting that a cloud platform functions on software instead of physical equipment, thus enabling telecom operators to establish 5G networks at a faster pace. It also helps in reducing operating costs and providing customized services to clients.

On the AI front, IBM has collaborated with Spain's Telefónica to create a virtual assistant that will eliminate friction points such as extended wait times, by automating the management of frequently asked questions, and common tasks like billing.

General Manager for Communications Business at IBM, Steve Canepa was quoted saying that the company views this move to be an existential moment for 5G telco operators, as it will enable them to gain more architectural control on their platforms, and redefine their network to be an all-encompassing digital world instead of a structured physical model.

Vice President at Red Hat, Darell Jordan-Smith, said that the market segment is currently in a disruptive phase as telecommunications companies are vying to establish themselves as the destination for services such as machine learning, augmented reality, and AI.

The financial terms and conditions of IBM’s joint venture remain undisclosed.

Meanwhile, other tech behemoths such as Microsoft Corporation, and Amazon.com Inc. are also trying to get a slice of the 5G revenue cake by offering next-generation software tools to telecom operators.

Source Link –

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/information-tech/ibm-broadens-5g-deals-with-verizon-and-telefonica-with-cloud-and-ai/articleshow/83911121.cms