Spotlight put on 5G and AI integration in the Middle East
5G-Advanced technology examined
A trending focus at GITEX Global 2024 in Dubai City was the transformative potential of 5G technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in the Middle East region. The event showcased a blend of unique innovations and thought-provoking discussions that promise to redefine the landscape of connectivity and digital transformation, primarily in the oil-rich region.
A key highlight at the five-day event held at Dubai World Trade Centre was the ‘Intelligent Connectivity’ conference, where industry leaders explored the future of 5G and its integration with autonomous vehicles.
The ‘Intelligent Connectivity’ programme featured speakers from notable enterprises. Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer at UAE-based e&, emphasised the vital role of 5G as a platform for innovation.
He stated: “5G and 5G advanced serve as a platform for everyone to innovate with applications that drive demand for network enhancement. ” He noted the collaborative efforts in building networks that support AI applications, underlining a shared commitment to creating new use cases in real time.
Prominent figures such as Wang Hui, President of Huawei’s NCE Data Communication Domain, and Thomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary General at the International Telecommunication Union, joined Murshed on stage to share insights on the evolving technological landscape.
They highlighted the integral role of 5G-Advanced (5G-A) in enabling rapid, low-latency communications crucial for next-generation applications, including big data, AI, and cloud computing.
Hui pointed out that large language models (LLMs) significantly influence the telecommunications sector. He detailed how AI applications are currently being utilised in China’s autonomous vehicle technology and AI-driven health services, further demonstrating the broad applicability of these advancements.
Autonomous transportation
A notable discussion focused on the intersection of 5G and autonomous vehicles, where Siyuan Liu, Head of IoT Partnership & Strategy at China Unicom Global, highlighted how 5G is essential for the development and safety of autonomous transportation. Liu remarked that 5G enables vehicles to make timely decisions, enhancing overall transport efficiency.
Beyond the conference, GITEX Global 2024 featured a vibrant exhibition hall with demonstrations from leading technology providers, including Huawei, Nokia, China Telecom, and Cisco. These industry giants showcased their latest innovations in 5G applications.
The five-day event in Dubai attracted thousands of visitors eager to experience the latest 5G-powered products and services.
Among various multisector unveilings was a partnership between e& and Vodafone Business IoT, which aims to provide in-vehicle connectivity solutions for Mercedes-Benz AG drivers in the UAE. This innovative service, set to launch in the first half of 2025, leverages Vodafone’s Global SIM+ eSIM technology to enhance digital services.
In addition to vehicle connectivity, e& showcased the Nissan Hyper-Force, an all-electric supercar designed to provide an unparalleled driving experience through e&’s UAE 5G SIM cards. The supercar exemplifies the potential of 5G to enhance user experiences in real-time, showcasing a future where technology and mobility are intricately linked.
Furthermore, e& introduced its new human-digital advisors, which integrate hologram technology with AI and are tailored to address the diverse cultural needs of telecom customers in the UAE. This innovative approach signifies a shift towards more personalised and culturally aware customer service solutions.
GITEX Global 2024 emphasised the current 5G and AI advancements and painted a vivid picture of the future. With industry leaders collaborating to push the boundaries of what is possible, the event served as a reminder of the pivotal role that these technologies will play in shaping a hyperconnected world.
As the event draws to a close on October 18, 2024, the insights gained, and innovations showcased in the various halls of the show are expected to inspire future developments in the ever-evolving tech landscape across the Middle East and the rest of the globe.
Featured image: e& showcased innovative vehicle connectivity technology at its exhibitor pavilion at GITEX Global 2024. Credit: Arnold Pinto
Last Updated on 2 months by Dan Ngiam
