Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and quantum computing are set to have a significant impact on the telecom, media and entertainment industry. These technologies have the potential to transform industry operations and create new opportunities for innovation and growth. Additionally, the rollout of 5G and beyond in the networks will play a crucial role in enabling new use cases and applications in these industries.

Technology trends defining change

With the power of AI, and especially GenAI, companies can harness the vast amounts of data generated by their networks and digital platforms to gain valuable insights and improve their operations. GenAI is used to enhance customer experiences, personalize content and optimize network performance. For example, GenAI-powered chatbots with enhanced large language models (LLMs) can provide instant customer support, while AI algorithms can analyze user behavior to recommend personalized content.

“Artificial intelligence represents the next generation [of innovation]. We are in the beginning stage, but there is a synergy [across industries] that I see worldwide,” said Priyadarshi Das, Business Head – Telecom, Media and Entertainment at HCLTech, during Mobile World Congress (MWC).

HCLTech’s industry impact

HCLTech collaborates with SaaS providers and hyperscalers to boost innovation and accelerate the adoption of GenAI. HCLTech offers a unique set of end-to-end AI capabilities, from chip development to business process optimization.

Blockchain will enable “secure transactions,” according to Das. Its decentralized and transparent nature can help streamline operations, reduce costs and enhance data security.

In the media and entertainment sector, blockchain can be used to ensure copyright protection, track content distribution, and create new revenue-sharing models. Telecom companies can leverage blockchain to enable secure and efficient transactions, such as mobile payments and identity verification. For example, HCLTech offers blockchain platforms and accelerators, like the CoTrust Suite and OBOL Tokenization Platform.

As more technologies are embraced by the telecom, media and entertainment industry, the need to improve computer processing power will become paramount. Quantum computing has an important role in delivering the next generation of computing approach necessary to solve complex problems at a much faster rate than traditional computers.

This opens possibilities for advanced data analytics, simulation and optimization, which can greatly enhance decision-making and improve efficiency. In the telecomindustry, quantum computing can be used to optimize network routing and improve cybersecurity. In media and entertainment, it can enable real-time rendering of complex graphics and simulations.

The role of 5G

5G networks will be instrumental in enabling and supporting the advancements in AI, blockchain and quantum computing. 5G offers significantly higher speeds, lower latency and greater network capacity compared to previous generations of wireless technology. This will pave the way for new use cases and applications in the telecom, media and entertainment industry. For example, with the increased bandwidth and low latency of 5G, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences can be delivered seamlessly to users, providing immersive and interactive content. 5G also enables edge computing, where computing resources are brought closer to the end-users, reducing latency and enabling real-time processing for applications such as autonomous vehicles and live streaming.

“In the next three or four years, 6G will emerge, enabling zero latency, which will ensure an even more reliable network, take network speeds to the next level and support the next generation of connectivity use cases,” said Das.

He added: “5G and connectivity are bringing together different industries, enabling humans to create use cases that have never existed before.”

Accelerating 5G and next-gen technology adoption

Despite the potential benefits of these technologies, the adoption, deployment and monetization of 5G networks have not yet reached the levels expected by organizations and industry experts. This can be attributed to various factors.

One reason is the significant investment required to build and upgrade the necessary infrastructure for 5G networks. “It’s not easy to rip up legacy infrastructure,” said Das.

Telecom and technology providers need to invest in deploying the required number of base stations and upgrading their equipment to support 5G technology. Additionally, there may be regulatory and policy challenges that need to be addressed to facilitate the rollout of 5G networks.

“The future of connectivity, 5G and beyond is no longer just about pipes and spectrum, but about crafting experiences that enrich lives and transform industries. 5G and beyond is the canvas, waiting for the brushstrokes of innovation,” said Das.

HCLTech’s continues to accelerate 5G and beyond with:

• vRAN design and development
• 5GC design and development
• Hardware engineering (Embedded/FPGA/RF)
• RF board/Antenna design and development services for vendors, TSPs and hyperscalers
• Converged network elements (SDN, converged access) development
• MEC solutions
• 5G engineering labs

Advancements in AI, blockchain, quantum computing and the rollout of 5G (and eventually 6G) networks will have a profound impact on the telecom, media and entertainment industry. These technologies will enable new use cases, improve operational efficiency, enhance customer experiences and drive innovation and growth. Telcos, technology providers and industry stakeholders need to embrace these advancements and work together to accelerate the adoption and monetization of these technologies.