China Mobile, the world’s largest mobile network operator, has unveiled its latest breakthrough in telecommunications: the commercial readiness of its 5G-A intelligent network service. This advanced network, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), dynamically adjusts network resources to ensure superior service reliability and is tailored to meet diverse user experiences. As the demand for mobile internet services continues to grow, driven by the rise of AI and 5G-A, China Mobile’s “intelligent, differentiated experience assurance service” stands poised to redefine the future of telecommunications. This novel approach is set to ensure that the burgeoning needs of modern mobile users are met without compromising the overall performance of the network, thus supporting a seamless digital experience.
The Role of AI in the 5.5G Network
AI plays a pivotal role in China Mobile’s new 5.5G network, dynamically tailoring network resources to meet real-time needs. This sophisticated integration allows the system to manage a variety of data service types, essential for activities like livestreaming, video conferencing, and online gaming. Each of these services demands unique bandwidth assurances and low-latency performance, which the intelligent network system can prioritize efficiently. This ensures that critical services receive the necessary resources even during peak usage periods. Such an approach allows for a more efficient distribution of network resources, laying the groundwork for an optimized telecom ecosystem that supports diverse and demanding applications.
As Feng Zheng, the chief expert at China Mobile Group, explained, this advancement marks a “leap from zero to one.” The AI-driven system’s ability to offer specialized services to VIP clients without compromising the overall network performance is groundbreaking. Machine learning enables the network to make complex calculations and inferences about resource allocation seamlessly, achieving feats unattainable during the 4G and earlier 5G eras. The dynamic allocation of resources is achieved without the need for manual intervention, demonstrating the robustness and adaptability of AI in managing modern telecommunications networks. This technological leap signifies an evolution in how networks can cater to personalized and high-demand services.
In-Depth Transformation Process
The journey towards an intelligent core network was extensive and involved several phases. China Mobile started with lab testing and live pilots, followed by large-scale tests from 2022 onwards. One notable early success was during the 2023 Asian Games, where HD video streaming was provided using the new 5.5G system, in collaboration with Migu and Huawei. Subsequent pilots in six provinces in 2024 further verified the network’s functions and customer service experiences. The methodical approach taken by China Mobile ensured a rigorous validation process, guaranteeing the network’s reliability and performance before its commercial launch. Such a detailed testing regime underscores the company’s commitment to offering a dependable service that can handle high-demand scenarios with ease.
A significant test occurred during the 2024 Chinese New Year in Henan province, where the network faced high traffic conditions from a fireworks festival. Despite the enormous data load, the network’s intelligent management ensured uninterrupted critical services, showcasing its robustness and reliability under pressure. The stress test during this culturally significant event highlighted the network’s capability to maintain service quality even under extreme load conditions. The continuous feedback from these pilot programs and real-world applications provided valuable insights that were used to fine-tune the network, ensuring it meets the high standards expected by both the company and its users.
Leveraging 3GPP Standards with NWDAF
The integration of intelligence into China Mobile’s core network is facilitated by the Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF), in alignment with 3GPP standards. NWDAF enables the network to make informed decisions about resource allocation, ensuring optimal performance for every user and application. Enhancements made by China Mobile to the 3GPP standards allow for precise identification of service types and user needs, along with customized data collection and reporting at network nodes. This level of precision ensures that the network can adapt in real-time to changing conditions, maintaining optimal performance across various applications. NWDAF’s role is pivotal in transforming the theoretical capabilities of the network into practical, user-facing benefits.
NWDAF also enhances user experience by actively keeping users informed about service status. Real-time updates are sent to the business operation support system, which then communicates with customers via texts or device icons. This feedback loop ensures transparency, keeping users updated on how the network adjusts to meet their specific needs. By maintaining an open line of communication, China Mobile fosters a relationship of trust with its users, assuring them that their service needs and expectations are being met. This proactive approach to customer service represents an evolution in how telecom companies interact with their customers, offering a more engaged and informed user experience.
Real-World Applications and Future Expansion
The journey toward an intelligent core network has been extensive and involved several stages. China Mobile began with lab tests and live pilots, moving to large-scale testing from 2022 onwards. One early success was during the 2023 Asian Games, where high-definition video streaming was delivered using the new 5.5G system in partnership with Migu and Huawei. Further pilots in six provinces in 2024 verified the network’s functionality and customer service experience. This methodical approach ensured a rigorous validation process, guaranteeing the network’s reliability and performance before its commercial launch, highlighting China Mobile’s commitment to dependable service capable of handling high-demand scenarios.
A significant test took place during the 2024 Chinese New Year in Henan province, where the network faced high traffic from a fireworks festival. Despite the heavy data load, the network’s intelligent management maintained uninterrupted critical services, demonstrating its robustness and reliability under pressure. This stress test, during an essential cultural event, showcased the network’s ability to maintain service quality under extreme conditions. Continuous feedback from these pilot programs and real-world applications provided valuable insights to fine-tune the network, ensuring it meets high standards expected by the company and its users.
