1. FIXED AND MOBILE TELCO OPERATORS ARE AT THE HEART OF A PROFOUND TRANSFORMATION, AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IS A KEY LEVER TO DIVERSIFY THEIR OFFERINGS WITH VALUE-ADDED SERVICES. WHAT TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS ARE DRIVING THIS CHANGE?

The telecommunications sector is undergoing a profound transformation, in a context where connectivity has become a commodity and margin pressures are making it increasingly difficult to sustain infrastructure investments. In this scenario, technological innovation is a fundamental element, but the main challenge lies in translating it into tangible competitive advantages. Various technologies are driving this change, redefining the role of operators and opening new business opportunities.

Among the main drivers of innovation are Standalone 5G and the Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model. 5G is not limited to offering higher speeds but introduces the concept of network slicing, which allows the creation of virtual networks dedicated to specific vertical sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and Industry 4.0. However, monetizing this technology remains an open challenge, with various players experimenting with different models without yet identifying a sustainable strategy. At the same time, the adoption of cloud-native networks and the Open RAN approach are crucial for reducing dependence on traditional vendors and cutting operating costs. However, the lack of specialized skills remains a significant obstacle to large-scale implementation.

Another key element is network automation through artificial intelligence (AIOps), which improves performance while reducing the need for highly specialized personnel. AI enables the implementation of self-healing systems and predictive resource management, leading to reduced downtime and operational costs. At the same time, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly central: with the rise of cyberattacks, adopting advanced security models like Zero Trust becomes essential, utilizing AI for real-time threat detection. Looking to the future, Quantum Computing is emerging as the next big challenge for network protection.

Finally, to avoid competition solely based on price, operators are called to enhance value-added services (VAS), evolving towards a Telco Beyond Connectivity model. Digital solutions in areas such as smart home, telemedicine, entertainment, and cloud gaming are becoming increasingly central to differentiation strategies and the generation of new revenue streams.

3. HOW CAN AI AND GENAI CONCRETELY BRING BENEFITS IN PROCESS OPTIMIZATION AND REDEFINING THE CUSTOMER JOURNEY?

AI is no longer just a tool for optimization it is actively reshaping the operating model of Telco operators in several key ways:

• Network Automation and Predictive Maintenance: AI can analyze large volumes of network data to prevent anomalies and optimize infrastructure management. This approach leads to a significant reduction in operational costs and improves the overall efficiency of operations.
• Revenue Assurance and Billing Error Reduction: With the increasing complexity of offers including bundles, digital services, and installment payments AI and GenAI can automatically detect anomalies in billing systems, helping to reduce complaints and enhance transparency for customers.
• AI for Hyper-Personalized Marketing: GenAI enables the creation of tailor-made campaigns based on user behavior, generating dynamic and personalized advertising messages aimed at increasing conversion rates and improving marketing ROI.
• Fraud Detection & Advanced Cybersecurity: The telecommunications sector is particularly exposed to fraud schemes such as SIM swapping and account takeovers. AI-powered fraud prevention systems can detect and block suspicious activities in real time, increasing user security and protection.

The adoption of AI in telecommunications therefore goes far beyond simple efficiency gains it is fundamentally transforming the industry. From intelligent network management to advanced security and customer experience personalization, operators investing in these technologies can not only cut costs but also stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

5. HOW CAN PARTNERSHIPS ENABLE SUCCESSFUL DIGITAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFORMATION IN THE MEDIA & COMMUNICATION SECTOR?

In the Media & Communication landscape, digital transformation requires far more than isolated technology investments it demands a synergy between skills, infrastructure, and innovative business visions. In this context, partnerships become the driving force that accelerates change, enabling faster time-to-market, rapid scaling, and the integration of advanced technologies.

A collaborative and cross-functional approach, built on strategic alliances with hyperscalers, specialized vendors, startups, and vertical players, brings concrete advantages:

• Access to cutting-edge technologies: Collaborating with leaders in cloud, AI, and cybersecurity enables the adoption of advanced solutions without starting from scratch. Integration with key platforms speeds up the shift toward cloud-native and edge computing models, essential for meeting today’s challenges.
• Creation of open and interoperable ecosystems: Strategic partnerships promote the adoption of open standards (such as Open RAN and standard APIs), freeing operators from reliance on traditional vendors, reducing costs, and enabling innovative models like Telco-as-a-Platform.
• Innovation in digital services: Working with players in fintech, media, and IoT enables the diversification of offerings, monetization of connectivity through value-added services, and the creation of convergent offerings that boost customer engagement.

An integrated, business-oriented approach allows companies to turn the complexity of the sector into tangible opportunities, strengthening their position in an ever-evolving market.