The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and telecommunication technology was the main theme at MWC 2025, an annual trade show, earlier this month, according to a report by a state-run R&D evaluation agency released on Sunday.
According to the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP), it published its technical review on the MWC 2025 tech trade show held from March 3 to 6 in Barcelona.
In the report, the institute identified the integration of AI and telecom technology, new monetization schemes by telecom firms, the expansion of 5G base stations and emerging technologies, including 6G, as the top four highlights of the event.
In the report, IITP said telecom companies showed a trend of integrating AI with their conventional businesses in smart devices, Radio Access Networks (RAN) and other telecom technologies, so that they can transform into tech companies. RAN refers to a mobile network that connects devices like smartphones to base stations and the core network.
In this trend, smart devices such as Samsung Electronics' Galaxy S25 and Xiaomi's 15 Ultra are examples of how smartphones are evolving into AI tools that use advanced on-device AI to assist users. By integrating AI, existing RAN technologies are now supported by software to maximize energy savings and improve efficiency in future networks.
The report continued that telecom companies will operate their network through Agentic AI, which means a greater framework that allows AI agents to work together across ranges through autonomous planning, execution and evaluation. Such operations are anticipated to enable the automation and optimization of mobile network systems, improving efficiency and performance without needing human intervention.
The IITP said that telecom companies are also seeking new monetization schemes such as an open gateway application programming interface, AI-based 5G fixed wireless access and private 5G networks.
Another trend observed at MWC 2025 was the competition between telecoms companies over 5G base stations. While Chinese firms maximized their presence in the 5G base station equipment market with advanced hardware technology, the opposing side responded by shifting to a software-centric equipment market. As a result, competition between the two sides is expected to accelerate, the report noted.
In terms of emerging technology, the institute noted that telecom companies showcased new frequency and intelligent network technologies, outlining the path for 6G networks. Participants particularly highlighted the collaboration between chipmakers, telecom companies and satellite operators, enabling advanced nonterrestrial networks.
“This year’s MWC clearly demonstrated that AI is driving new markets and values for mobile networks, as an essential technology leading the evolution and innovation,” IITP President Hong Jin-bae said. “Based on the innovative technologies such as 6G and nonterrestrial network observed at MWC 2025, we will work with the Ministry of Science and ICT to strengthen the competitiveness of Korea's telecommunications industry.”
Source: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/tech/2025/03/133_394181.html