Network X
14 - 16 October 2025
Paris Expo Porte de VersaillesParis, France
Exhibit NowBook Your Pass
Menu
Register
Exhibit Now

The Future of Telecommunications: Navigating 6G, AI, and APIs for Strategic Growth

The telecommunications landscape is rapidly evolving with emerging technologies reshaping network structures and business models. As telcos and service providers look toward the future, three key areas demand strategic attention: the development of 6G networks, the implementation of AI for operational efficiency, and the monetization of APIs. This article explores expert insights on these critical topics, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for telecommunications executives planning their long-term technology roadmaps.

6G: A Realistic Evolution, Not a Revolution

Unlike previous generations that focused heavily on hardware upgrades and inflated performance metrics, 6G is taking a more pragmatic approach. Industry experts note several key differences in the 6G development process:

    • Gradual evolution of the 5G architecture rather than a complete overhaul
    • Leaner specifications with fewer options to simplify implementation
    • Realistic performance goals instead of dramatically inflated metrics
    • Earlier industry involvement from verticals like automotive and aeronautical sectors

As Monica Paolini, Principal at Senza Fili, noted, "The message is very different for 6G... it's more about a gradual evolution of the 5G architecture and infrastructure or software." This approach aims to create more cost-effective and implementable technology for service providers.

Convergence of Network Technologies

A significant aspect of 6G development is the potential convergence with other network structures. While maintaining the distinct advantages of different technologies, 6G may offer better integration with:

  • Wi-Fi networks, particularly for enterprise applications
  • Satellite communications for expanded coverage
  • Sensing capabilities that leverage existing signals to understand environments

This convergence represents a departure from previous generations, with a focus on simpler architectures from the start. As Ruth Brown, Principal Analyst for Mobile Networks at Heavy Reading (part of Omdia), explained, "Bringing those together is really going to help us get around some of these coverage gaps."

AI in Telecoms Networks: A focus on efficiency first, then a lever to improve revenue

When it comes to AI implementation in telco environments, industry analysts emphasize a crucial distinction: AI should be viewed first as a tool for operational efficiency rather than looking at direct revenue generation, although in time intelligent and automated networks will allow operators to carve new revenue streams.

Cost Reduction vs. Revenue Generation

AI offers telecommunications providers significant benefits in APIs: Standardisation and Monetisation Challenges
The development of standardized, open APIs represents both an opportunity and a challenge for telecommunications providers. Industry initiatives like GSMA's Open Gateway and Camara are working to create consistent API structures across operators.

Different Challenges for Different Operators

Large operators have typically implemented several open APIs (particularly security-focused ones like SIM swap or number verification) but now face commercialisation challenges

Smaller operators may lack resources to implement open APIs and are watching larger players before making investments

The value of APIs increases dramatically when implemented consistently across operators. For telecommunications APIs to achieve widespread adoption, they need ease of implementation comparable to major platform providers.

Technical Requirements for Advanced APIs

Network performance APIs—which allow developers not just to access information but to affect network behaviour—require advanced network capabilities:

    • 5G standalone networks
    • Network automation capabilities
    • Consistent implementation across operators

For telecommunications executives, the path forward requires balancing technological innovation with practical implementation. 6G development should focus on realistic improvements rather than marketing hype. AI investments should target operational efficiency and cost reduction before revenue generation. API strategies should emphasize standardisation and ease of use for developers.

By taking a measured, strategic approach to these technologies, service providers can enhance their network structures, improve operational efficiency, and develop new revenue streams in an increasingly competitive telecommunications landscape.