MY STORY M360 APAC, Seoul | Advancing Digital Nations with AI

We, Global 5G Evolution , thrilled to have participated in MWC 360 APAC at Seoul, South Korea. Diving into sessions on New Horizons in the AI Era. Connecting with industry leaders discussing the evolving telecom and artificial intelligence landscape. Follow us on #GSMA #GSMAAPAC #M360APAC #M360 #Huawei #5GAdvanced #MWC2024 #InnovateForImpact #G5GEMWC #global5Gevolution?for insights and live updates!

AI has demonstrably taken center stage at M360 APAC, with executives from across the region’s connectivity ecosystem and political and regulatory landscapes for two days, geared towards advancing digital nations with AI. Leading tech innovators and industry experts took the stage for a packed agenda of keynotes and panel sessions focused around the M360 APAC themes, including Building AI enabled Digital Backbone, 5G Advanced and its applications in healthcare, manufacturing, mobility and the role of AI Innovation in climate action.

Keynote 1: New Horizons in the AI Era

On October 1st, 2024, I had the opportunity to attend ‘Keynote 1: New Horizons in the AI Era’ GSMA M360 Series APAC Conference at the Westin Josun, Seoul, South Korea.

At M360 APAC in Seoul, GSMA Director General Mats Granryd outlined a strategic three-pronged approach to accelerate the adoption of the Open Gateway initiative, which has garnered support from around 270 operators, representing 74% of global mobile connections. Granryd emphasized the shift to an outside-in approach, where the GSMA actively engages with businesses to understand their specific needs, supported by a dedicated team for industry engagement. To further bolster this initiative, the GSMA is cultivating organic partnerships through joint ventures with 21 channel partners, including major players like Ericsson, Nokia, and Huawei. He highlighted the potential of Open Gateway, particularly with South Korea's leading mobile operators—SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus—committing to the establishment and commercialization of open APIs. Additionally, Granryd noted that the region's operators are projected to invest approximately $270 billion in capital expenditures from 2023 to 2030 to address growing data traffic, even as mobile revenue stagnates or declines in many markets. He urged collaboration among operators, governments, and policymakers to create conducive policies that drive growth and innovation.

At M360 APAC in Seoul, KT CEO Kim Young Shub highlighted the company's dedication to expanding its AI capabilities through strategic partnerships, notably a recent collaboration with Microsoft to invest in hyperscale data centers and GPU farms. Acknowledging the complexities of the global value chain and the significant investments needed for technological progress, Kim argued that relying solely on in-house technology is inefficient, emphasizing that no single technology can address all customer needs. While advocating for external partnerships, he stressed the importance of maintaining sovereignty over data, infrastructure, and specific services. KT is not only developing custom AI models and agents tailored to the local market through its five-year partnership with Microsoft but is also focusing on five key sectors: finance, public services, mobility, healthcare, and education. Additionally, Kim outlined KT's efforts to enhance its capabilities with industry-specific language models and its ambitions in AI-based financial and media services. Looking to the future, he noted the company’s commitment to improving both ground-based assets and collaborating with non-terrestrial networks (NTN) to prepare for smartphone-satellite communications and 6G services. South Korea's Minister of Science and ICT, Yoo Sang-Im, echoed these sentiments, discussing the government's initiative to create a supportive digital environment for AI, while addressing challenges like misinformation, as part of the country's goal to become an AI leader by 2027 and enhance connectivity across land, sea, and air.

At M360 APAC in Seoul, e& Group CEO Hatem Dowidar asserted that AI empowers operators to go beyond traditional tasks like customer care and network management. By analyzing customer data and predicting future needs, operators can rapidly experiment with new services, much like early tech companies. e& Group has fully automated its sales process using AI and machine vision, enabling longer store hours and a wider range of products, from accessories to iPhones. The company has recently opened its second automated retail store and plans to expand this concept further. The group's marketing approach has shifted to a personalized "segment-of-one" strategy, tailoring offers to individual customer preferences. For customer care, e& leverages AI-powered chatbots and has developed a voice assistant using advanced language models. Network optimization has long been supported by AI at e&. Dowidar emphasized the importance of a robust 5G and fiber infrastructure to support data-intensive AI applications, as many AI-powered services rely on efficient data transfer.

Building the AI enabled Digital Backbone

Panel Speakers - KyungHi Chang Jayanth Nagarajan James Hyochan Han Takehiro Nakamura,moderated by Kaneshwaran Govindasamy

AI technologies are rapidly reshaping the network landscape in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Driven by factors such as 5G deployment, increasing demand for intelligent networks, and the need for automation, AI is being integrated into various network domains, from network optimization and automation to end-customer services.

While AI offers significant benefits, its adoption is not without challenges. High investment costs, limited AI talent, concerns about data privacy and security, and regulatory complexities are some of the obstacles hindering widespread adoption. However, successful AI-powered network deployments in the region demonstrate the potential of AI to enhance network efficiency, performance, and customer experience.

Looking ahead, AI is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of future-generation networks like 6G. Key technological advancements driven by AI include AI-for-RAN (enhancing network efficiency), AI-and-RAN (sharing infrastructure for better monetization), and AI-on-RAN (enabling AI applications through network support).

To fully realize the potential of AI in APAC networks, addressing challenges related to data quality, talent acquisition, cost-benefit analysis, and regulatory frameworks is essential. By overcoming these obstacles, the region can position itself as a leader in AI-driven network innovation and reap the benefits of improved network performance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Manufacturing Summit - Connecting the Resilient Industrial Revolution

Panel Speakers - Jo Gilbert Heedon Chang David T. Chen, PhD Takehiro Nakamura

At the recent Manufacturing Summit - Connecting the Resilient Industrial Revolution at the GSMA M360 Series APAC in Seoul, Dr. David T. Chen, PhD , made a noteworthy observation regarding the hesitance of many industries to fully embrace 5G applications. Despite the backing of government grants for trial implementations, the manufacturing sector has shown reluctance in commercializing these technologies. Dr. Chen pointed to the mismatch between the business models of Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and the specific needs of manufacturers, which presents a significant barrier to wider 5G adoption.

One of the key challenges highlighted is the prevalent sim card-based pricing model. Many manufacturers may benefit from more flexible pricing strategies, such as subscription-based or usage-based models that align better with their operational demands. Additionally, CSPs could enhance value by bundling 5G connectivity with complementary services like IoT platforms or cloud computing, making the overall proposition more attractive to manufacturers.

Network reliability and quality are also critical for the manufacturing sector. To address these concerns, CSPs should consider offering guaranteed service level agreements (SLAs) that ensure the necessary reliability, latency, and throughput for manufacturing processes. Moreover, investment in network optimization is essential to maintain consistent performance in industrial settings, which often have unique challenges.

Security is another area that cannot be overlooked. CSPs need to implement robust security measures to protect sensitive manufacturing data and ensure compliance with industry standards, such as IEC 62443. This builds trust and encourages manufacturers to adopt 5G solutions. Additionally, addressing integration challenges is crucial; ensuring that 5G technology seamlessly integrates with existing systems and providing technical support can significantly alleviate concerns for manufacturers.

Finally, demonstrating a clear return on investment (ROI) through case studies and financial incentives can help persuade manufacturers to invest in 5G. By effectively addressing these challenges and working collaboratively with manufacturers to create tailored solutions, CSPs have the potential to drive the successful commercialization of 5G in the manufacturing sector.

What do you think about these strategies?

Mobilising the Future: Artificial Intelligence for A Thriving Digital Asia Pacific

Panel Speakers- Mojca Cargo Yosuke Murakami Kevin Graham Ewan Lusty

Deepfakes were a prominent focus of discussion during this session, especially given their recent advancements in quality and sophistication.

AI is a vital tool in combating deepfakes in the context of elections. From sophisticated detection algorithms to proactive media literacy initiatives, AI helps to safeguard the electoral process by ensuring that voters have access to accurate information. As technology evolves, the role of AI in this fight will continue to grow, making it an essential component of modern electoral integrity efforts.

The APAC region's fragmentation presents both challenges and opportunities for democratizing access to technology. By ensuring that all communities, especially marginalized populations, can benefit from advancements like AI and 5G, the region can bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth. Access to affordable digital tools fosters education and entrepreneurship, while AI-driven solutions for detecting misinformation enhance resilience, particularly during critical events like elections. Collaboration among governments, tech companies, and civil society is vital for creating standardized practices and resources that further promote equitable access. Ultimately, democratizing technology in APAC not only supports individual and national development but also strengthens regional stability and cooperation, paving the way for a more prosperous and inclusive future.

Keynote 2: Business Frontiers: Strategies for Innovation & Growth

Moderated by Richard Lee

Dan Knox and Georgiann Reigle prominent figures in sustainability and the circular economy, shared invaluable insights at the M360 Series APAC event regarding the need to transition from traditional linear economic models to circular approaches. They emphasized the importance of embracing principles that focus on reusing, recycling, and reducing waste, which are critical for creating a more sustainable future. This shift not only helps to mitigate environmental impacts but also fosters economic resilience by maximizing resource efficiency. In their talk, they highlighted practical strategies for integrating sustainable practices within various industries. This includes adopting renewable materials, implementing energy-efficient processes, and minimizing waste throughout the supply chain. Collaboration emerged as a central theme in their discussion, with an emphasis on the necessity for partnerships among businesses, governments, and communities. They stressed that fostering innovation and creating systems that support circularity require collective efforts. By working together, stakeholders can share knowledge, resources, and best practices to drive meaningful change.

Security Summit - Powering cybersecurity, advancing innovation

Panel Speakers- Anton Reynaldo Bonifacio Gerald Reddig, Samantha Kight

In the recent discussion between Anton Reynaldo Bonifacio and Gerald Reddig , several key topics emerged, reflecting the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in the post-pandemic world. To begin with was the impact of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, which have gained traction as remote work has become more commonplace. With employees accessing corporate resources from personal devices, the conversation highlighted the heightened security risks that accompany this trend. The discussion likely underscored the need for robust security measures to protect sensitive data and maintain organizational integrity.

Another critical area of focus was the rise of sophisticated phishing attacks, particularly those targeting Multi-Factor Authentication (MSA). As cybercriminals adapt their strategies, the discussion may have explored how attackers are increasingly bypassing traditional security layers. This shift poses significant challenges for organizations striving to protect their digital assets, necessitating a proactive approach to cybersecurity awareness and training.

The dialogue also touched on the implications of increased data traffic on telecommunications networks, particularly concerning the use of physical footage for security monitoring. As remote interactions surge, telco networks face mounting pressures to handle this influx of data efficiently. The speakers likely addressed the balance between leveraging technology for security while ensuring network resilience.

Bonifacio and Reddig revisited the principles of Zero Trust Architecture in light of the shifting threat landscape. This segment of the conversation likely delved into the complexities of implementing Zero Trust in a dynamic environment, emphasizing the importance of fraud detection methods. They may have discussed emerging fraud tactics, including the shift from traditional SMS fraud to Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms and voice phishing, as well as the risks associated with eavesdropping. Overall, their discussion encapsulated the pressing challenges and innovations in cybersecurity, particularly as organizations adapt to the new normal of hybrid work environments.

The recent discussion underscored the substantial financial ramifications of data breaches, which can cost organizations millions of dollars across various regions. This stark reality emphasizes the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data. By investing in comprehensive security protocols, organizations can significantly mitigate financial losses and safeguard their reputations in an increasingly digital world.

A key focus was on "zero attacks," particularly in sectors such as enterprise, healthcare, and other mission-critical industries. These sectors are increasingly targeted due to the sensitive data they handle and the essential services they provide. The discussion highlighted that safeguarding these critical infrastructures is paramount, as successful attacks can have devastating consequences not only for the organizations but also for the communities they serve.

The prevalence of ransomware attacks in the U.S. was another pressing topic, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by these malicious activities. Ransomware can disrupt operations, result in significant data loss, and incur hefty financial costs, which makes understanding and addressing this threat vital for all organizations. The discussion reiterated that a proactive approach is essential to combat the risks associated with ransomware and to protect vital assets.

The integration of generative AI into cybersecurity was also explored, revealing its potential to enhance threat detection, response, and prevention capabilities. The conversation delved into various tooling—both common and specialized—alongside the role of specialized signaling in firewalls. By leveraging generative AI, organizations can strengthen their defenses and improve their overall cybersecurity posture.

Additionally, the necessity for an orchestration platform to manage multiple attack vectors was emphasized. Such a platform would enable organizations to effectively respond to complex cyberattacks that span both IT and operational technology (OT). This holistic approach is essential for navigating the intricate landscape of modern cyber threats.

For the telecommunications industry specifically, several key pieces of advice emerged. The importance of vulnerability management cannot be overstated, as staying informed through threat intelligence reports is crucial for identifying emerging threats. Regular patching of systems is essential to mitigate vulnerabilities, and conducting proof of concepts (PoCs) for generative AI can help evaluate its potential benefits and risks. Effective patch management processes must be implemented to address vulnerabilities promptly. Overall, the discussion provided valuable insights into the evolving cybersecurity landscape, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to protect against various threats.

DXAF AI Summit - Session III: AI Growth Strategies, Technologies and Business Models

Panel Speakers - Mojca Cargo Louis Powell Soonmin Bae Mani Mahadevan Nikolai Dobberstein Christopher Price

During the GSMA M360 DXAF AI Summit in Seoul on Oct 2nd, 微软 announced a significant multibillion-dollar strategic partnership with KT, focusing on transformative plans for both the company and South Korea. Mani Mahadevan highlighted the essential transition of mobile network operators (MNOs) to Mobile Network AI Orchestrators (MNAOs), a change that is crucial for driving AI transformation across nations and governments. This transition is seen as pivotal in developing new business models that will support the future growth of the digital economy while also promoting responsible AI frameworks. KT showcased its collaboration with Microsoft, emphasizing its vision to evolve into an AICT (Artificial Intelligence and Communications Technology) company. The partnership aims to harness advanced AI capabilities to enhance KT's services and contribute to the broader digital landscape in South Korea. This includes leveraging AI for network optimization, customer experience improvements, and the development of innovative solutions across various sectors.

The summit underscored the growing importance of AI in telecommunications and the need for MNOs to adapt to changing market demands. By embracing MNAO principles, companies like KT can lead the charge in implementing AI-driven strategies that not only enhance operational efficiency but also align with ethical standards and foster sustainable growth in the digital economy. The collaboration with Microsoft is expected to accelerate these initiatives, positioning KT as a leader in AI and digital transformation in the region.

Key takeaways from M360 APAC Policy Leaders Forum 2024: Embedding trust in future connectivity

A must-read by Jeanette Whyte , Head of Public Policy, APAC GSMA

https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/public-policy/key-takeaways-from-m360-apac-policy-leaders-forum-2024-embedding-trust-in-future-connectivity

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