AIS and Huawei Launch RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program to Expedite AN L4 Evolution

AIS Thailand and Huawei have jointly launched the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, a collaborative initiative aimed at driving wireless intelligence innovation and building robust, high-quality intelligent wireless networks.

AIS is dedicated to realizing its strategic goal of Autonomous Networks (AN) L4 by 2025. In collaboration with Huawei, AIS has made substantial progress in wireless intelligence over the past two years, successfully developing applications like base station outage detection and compensation, and intelligent traffic burst optimization. These innovations have boosted network traffic and operational efficiency while significantly improving user experience and satisfaction. As a result, AIS has achieved its strategic goal of AN L3 in critical wireless scenarios.

The RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program unites Huawei, telecom operators, and industry partners to develop innovative intelligent wireless network applications and business models through state-of-the-art intelligence technologies like foundation models and digital twins. The goal is to uncover new business opportunities and economic value in the wireless sector. As a vital partner, AIS is considered an important partner of this program, marking a significant step towards achieving the strategic vision of a Level 4 Autonomous Network, where the system can manage the network almost 100% on its own.

AIS and Huawei have announced their intention to collaborate on three key subjects.

• First, they will work together on how to leverage decision-making intelligence technologies to deliver a reliable and unique experience for 5G and future 5G-A users.
• Second, how to apply digital twin technology to improve the ability of making decisions with multiple objectives in mind for intelligent energy saving features, achieving optimal energy saving while ensuring more performance counters.
• Third, how to use generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies to acquire network operation and maintenance expertise, diagnose issues, and offer expert advice for resolution and forecasting.

Kitti Ngarmchatetanarom, Chief Technology Officer AIS said: "Through our partnership with Huawei, we have achieved significant advancements in the AN field over the past few years. By fully embracing the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, we have poised to further enhance our network operations, provide a tailored and exceptional user experience for each individual, accelerate our transition to AN L4, and evolve from a conventional communications service provider to a pioneering force in cognitive technology"

Calvin Zhao, President of Huawei Wireless Network MAE Product Line, stated: "Huawei has always been committed to working closely with operators and industry partners to improve network productivity and unlock new business prospects and value for the industry. Through the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, Huawei will team up with AIS to pioneer innovations in foundation models and digital twin technologies. Huawei will also support AIS in setting a new standard for AN L4 in 5G network deployment, driving the wireless intelligence revolution together"

The RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program has gained significant recognition from operators since its launch at MWC Shanghai in June 2024. With continued operator and industry partner involvement, this program will propel intelligent innovation in the industry, offering a robust technical framework and real-world case studies to accelerate the wireless AN sector’s progress toward L4 capabilities. This initiative will support the global development of intelligent wireless networks.