Verizon and NVIDIA partner on 5G, mobile edge computing initiative

Verizon is expanding its enterprise offerings by combining private 5G networks, edge computing, and NVIDIA’s AI capabilities to deliver advanced artificial intelligence services for businesses.

The core innovation: Verizon has partnered with NVIDIA to develop an integrated solution that merges private 5G networks, Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), and NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform.

• The new platform is designed to support demanding computing needs, including generative AI models, computer vision, and augmented reality applications
• The infrastructure is built to be plug-and-play and can support multiple users or use cases simultaneously
• Services can be deployed either on-premise or through portable private network solutions

Technical capabilities: The combination of 5G and edge computing creates a powerful foundation for AI applications requiring high performance and security.

• Private 5G networks provide the necessary bandwidth and ultra-low latency for AI applications
• Mobile Edge Computing enables processing-intensive AI workloads to occur closer to where data is generated
• The solution supports Large Language Models (LLMs), Vision Language Models, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications like autonomous mobile robots

Industry perspective: NVIDIA’s involvement signals a significant step forward in making enterprise AI more accessible and practical.

• Ronnie Vasishta, NVIDIA’s senior vice president of telecom, emphasizes how the solution helps enterprises achieve their business objectives faster with AI
• The platform addresses growing enterprise demands for AI integration and digital transformation
• An EY survey of 500 senior business executives indicates a projected doubling of AI investment among companies already using AI technology

Strategic implications: Verizon is positioning itself beyond traditional connectivity services to become a comprehensive enterprise AI solutions provider.

• The solution represents Verizon’s evolution from a pure connectivity provider to an integrated technology solutions partner
• Srini Kalapala, Verizon’s SVP of technology and product development, highlights the critical role of generative AI in future business growth
• The platform leverages Verizon’s leadership in private MEC and network infrastructure to deliver AI services at scale

Looking ahead: While the solution shows promise for enterprise AI adoption, its success will largely depend on real-world performance when it becomes available for demonstrations in early February 2024. The integration of 5G, edge computing, and AI represents a significant technological convergence that could accelerate enterprise AI adoption, particularly in industries requiring secure, low-latency AI applications.