Samar Mittal on Nokia’s pioneering AI-driven connectivity solutions

The vp and head of Cloud & Network Services said the company’s focus on AI and private wireless networks positions it well to address the evolving needs of the market

by Kudakwashe Muzoriwa

October 28, 2024

How Nokia is pioneering AI-driven connectivity solutions

Image credit: Supplied/ Nokia

Q. How does Nokia’s participation at GITEX align with the overall company strategy?

Nokia’s strategy focuses on driving growth within the telecom ecosystem. At GITEX, we emphasised vital areas such as private wireless networks, which introduce new use cases to support ecosystem expansion. Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) plays a critical role, as it is integrated into many of our solutions.

We are also fostering meaningful interactions with local customers and international stakeholders to align on common goals and drive innovation. Innovation is essential for advancing autonomous operations and IT modernisation. These conversations and use cases are perfectly aligned with Nokia’s global vision, reflecting our commitment to shaping the future of connectivity and technology.

Q. Tell us more about the products you are showcasing at GITEX. What are the key differentiators and value propositions for these offerings?

We showcased Nokia’s products across multiple domains, including radio, IP infrastructure, optical networks, private wireless, and core solutions. While we don’t focus on competition, we emphasise our key strengths and differentiators.

A significant aspect of our solutions is the integration of AI and machine learning (ML). The innovative technologies are embedded across our product portfolio, from radio solutions to security, enhancing performance and addressing evolving security challenges both locally and globally.

Nokia is also highlighting innovative solutions such as private wireless networks for drone operations, “core-in-a-box” small core solutions, and use cases that allow operators to monetise spectrum in new ways.

Similarly, we are introducing quantum-safe networks to prepare for future developments in quantum computing. As quantum technology evolves, current encryption methods may become vulnerable. Nokia is proactively working on quantum-resistant solutions to ensure network security in the future.

Our comprehensive end-to-end portfolio covering radio, IP, optical networks, private wireless, core solutions, applications, and security sets Nokia apart from other industry players. Our global expertise, shaped by experience across diverse markets such as the Americas, Europe, and Asia, enables us to develop solutions that address regional challenges and adapt to geopolitical realities, driving innovation and growth.

Q. How does Nokia envision its role in shaping the future of technology, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa region?

Nokia offers a wide range of solutions, including 5G monetisation, which has become a central topic in discussions across the GCC, Middle East, and Africa. One key initiative in this space is API as a currency, which is aimed at simplifying networks for developers. Our integrated platform, available through a SaaS model, ensures low upfront investment and enables communication service providers (CSPs) to monetise various use cases efficiently.

We are actively working with private partners across multiple industries. We are making significant contributions to security, particularly in the defence, mining, and oil & gas sectors. For example, optimising oil fields in the GCC and enhancing mining operations in Africa are critical areas where we provide tailored private wireless solutions to improve efficiency and drive innovation.

We are also addressing the challenges posed by technological discontinuity as some markets transition directly from 4G to advanced 5G autonomous networks. Nokia is committed to shaping the future by helping industries grow through cutting-edge technology.

Our work spans multiple regions and sectors, ensuring that we not only respond to evolving market needs but also contribute meaningfully to the future of connectivity and automation.

Q. AI is a major theme at GITEX. How is Nokia integrating AI into its products and services to enhance customer experiences and drive business value?

AI is a broad field, and Nokia integrates it across multiple areas to enhance operations and customer experience. A key aspect is establishing a network platform with autonomous operations, enabling simplified management and unlocking the full potential of AI across various domains.

Nokia offers several AI-driven solutions, such as Recommendation Manager and Customer Experience Management, focused on delivering actionable insights. Within the market (GCC and Africa), AI enables targeted campaigns and improves customer care. When a customer contacts the care centre, AI empowers agents with relevant insights to provide personalised and efficient support, enhancing the overall customer experience.

We are also leveraging AI to drive sustainability efforts, particularly by reducing carbon footprints. Nokia has deployed live solutions in the market that utilise advanced algorithms to optimise energy consumption, achieving significant savings.

On the private wireless network front, AI plays a vital role, especially in managing IoT devices with millions of interactions. As these networks evolve, AI-driven models help optimise performance and adapt through continuous learning. Nokia uses large language models (LLMs) and other algorithms to fine-tune network behaviour over time, ensuring seamless operations and scalability.

At the core of all our solutions, AI and ML serve as foundational technologies, driving operations, customer insights, automation, and network optimisation. AI is not just a single-use case but a continuously evolving system, adapting to new data and market needs to ensure sustainable and efficient growth across all sectors we serve.