5G-A networks reach 50 deployments as Huawei integrates AI for operators

Huawei says 5G-A networks and AI integration will reshape operator value creation and network innovation, with commercial deployments reaching 50 networks across 300 cities this year. The Chinese tech giant believes this convergence will drive new business models beyond traditional connectivity services, positioning operators to monetize AI capabilities and network performance guarantees.

The big picture: The mobile communications industry is experiencing a fundamental shift as 5G-Advanced (5G-A) technology matures alongside AI integration, creating new revenue opportunities for operators worldwide.

• Commercial 5G-A networks are set to reach 50 globally this year, spanning over 300 cities with support from more than 100 device models.
• Operators are successfully implementing premium pricing strategies, with Kuwait’s Zain, stc, and Ooredoo offering 5G-A plans priced around 50% higher than standard 5G services.

Key commercial developments: Operators are experimenting with AI-powered services and specialized network capabilities to drive revenue growth.

• China Mobile Guangdong has partnered with device manufacturers to launch AI-powered phones featuring 5G-A connectivity, AI agents, AI calling, and quantum-encrypted messaging.
• Deutsche Telekom, Germany’s largest telecommunications company, introduced a new AI device that “exceeds the overall AI performance of iPhones,” according to Eric Zhao, Huawei’s Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer.
• LG U+, a South Korean telecommunications provider, is deploying AI solutions to help small and medium enterprises improve operational efficiency.

Huawei’s AgenticRAN vision: The company unveiled its future network architecture designed to apply AI across wireless networks in a layered approach.

• The architecture focuses on three critical factors: effectiveness across scenarios, reliability without unpredictable faults, and cost efficiency.
• AgenticRAN operates on two levels: Agentic Service helps operators monetize network capabilities, while Agentic AN enables multi-objective optimization and higher autonomy levels.
• The system aims to optimize spectral efficiency, energy efficiency, and network automation while balancing performance with operational costs.

In plain English: AgenticRAN is essentially Huawei’s blueprint for making mobile networks smarter by adding AI at different layers, much like having intelligent assistants managing various aspects of network operations.

• The system works on two main levels—one helps phone companies turn network features into profitable services, while the other automatically fine-tunes network performance to handle multiple goals simultaneously, like maximizing speed while minimizing energy consumption.

What they’re saying: Industry executives emphasize the transformative potential of AI-powered mobile networks.

• “The upcoming mobile AI era will center on agents. And AI agents will be used in all aspects of our lives,” Zhao explained.
• “5G-A and mobile AI will create value that extends far beyond just traffic growth,” requiring operators to move “from selling connections to selling capabilities, and from charging for pipes to sharing value.”
• “We are confident that AgenticRAN will set new records in spectrum efficiency, energy efficiency, and network automation, pushing the entire industry forward,” Zhao added.

Strategic partnerships: Huawei is building ecosystem collaborations to accelerate 5G-A and AI adoption.

• The company launched a joint “5G-AxAI Campaign” with GSMA, the global mobile industry association, and GTI, a telecommunications industry initiative, to drive industry consensus and align standards.
• Huawei’s “Intelligent RAN, Ubiquitous AI Project” has established autonomous network benchmarks in 12 cities worldwide.
• China Mobile partnered with Shanghai Shenhua Football Club to offer fans enhanced 5G-A plans with guaranteed speeds and improved customer loyalty programs.