The project is part of Vodafone’s wider strategy to use AI and automation at scale to improve network performance and customer experience.

The system, called Rapid RIC, is designed to make Vodafone’s networks more reliable, energy-efficient and responsive to customer needs. It will enable engineers to launch new network apps, known as “rApps,” in weeks rather than months.

These apps can automatically spot and fix network problems, boost signal strength in busy areas, and switch off unused parts of the network to save power without manual upgrades to masts. Customers should see faster connections, fewer dropouts, and more consistent coverage, particularly in rural or high-demand areas.

The new platform is expected to go live early next year across Vodafone’s European markets. It uses Open RANtechnology, which allows operators to mix and match hardware and software from different suppliers.

Rapid RIC uses Generative AI to automatically create software code. Vodafone says this will cut development times by up to 70 per cent and reduce costs. An AI simulator will also test the apps to ensure they run smoothly.

The platform could eventually be offered to other telecoms companies. At launch, Vodafone plans to introduce two apps: One is an energy-saving app that automatically powers down unused network connections and reactivates them when needed. The other is a  performance-boosting app that fine-tunes signal settings for improved coverage.

The claim comes as the network has just launched a new AI too called  Lumi AI, to provide real-time insights and suggestions for customer service operators during customer interactions.

The tech analyses live conversations and outcomes of from millions of past customer engagements to give agents relevant prompts. If a customer needs clarity on a particular issue, the AI tool may recommend a solution based on similar past cases.

Complex Cases

Lumi AI is being trialled across Virgin Media O2’s customer care, telesales and retentions teams and is set for wider rollout and integration into the 500-person customer resolution hub in Manchester, which handles complex cases.

Lumi AI is the latest in a series of AI-led initiatives by the company. Earlier in 2025, Virgin Media O2 adopted an Amazon Web Services-powered smart contact centre system. This allows customers to state the reason for their call upfront and be routed directly to the most relevant team. Since its introduction, the business says it has seen an eight per cent increase in first-time resolution and now resolves 70 per cent of complaints within 24 hours.

“These technologies aren’t replacing people, they’re empowering them to become more effective”

The AI platform gives agents a view of a customer’s history, including past issues and interactions. Additional tools analyse conversations to help identify vulnerable customers or those with additional needs, allowing agents to tailor their support more effectively.

An Auto Call Summarisation tool listens to conversations and generates concise summaries of the key points discussed to ensures accurate records are shared with both agent and customer after the call.

Alan Stott, Director of Customer Contact at Virgin Media O2, said: “Customers want to get through to the right person, be understood, and have their issue resolved as quickly as possible. Our investment in AI and digital tool  is delivering just that. These technologies aren’t replacing people, they’re empowering them to become more effective in every customer interaction. We’ll continue to explore innovations that help us deliver an exceptional customer experience.”

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/virgin-media-o2-customer-complaints-halved-new-ai-tools-deployed/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/consumers-unimpressed-ai-smartphones-new-survey/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/consumers-unimpressed-ai-smartphones-new-survey/#respond Mon, 16 Dec 2024 23:50:18 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/consumers-unimpressed-ai-smartphones-new-survey/ Almost half the UK population believes AI features on smartphones are overhyped, according to a new study commissioned by Uswitch.com, the comparison and switching service. The survey, conducted by research firm Opinium, quizzed 2,000 UK adults last month. The results reveal that consumers want AI tools to be practical, intuitive, and relatable. For brands to

Almost half the UK population believes AI features on smartphones are overhyped, according to a new study commissioned by Uswitch.com, the comparison and switching service.

The survey, conducted by research firm Opinium, quizzed 2,000 UK adults last month. The results reveal that consumers want AI tools to be practical, intuitive, and relatable. For brands to succeed in this space, they must bridge the gap between innovation and everyday value, ensuring AI becomes more than just a buzzword and delivers meaningful benefits to users’ lives.

While a third (34 per cent) of the UK population is keen to embrace AI, scepticism remains widespread, with many struggling to see the value in the latest tech offerings.

Despite the smartphone industry’s hype around AI, just six per cent of consumers consider AI features a priority when upgrading their phones. Instead, most favour brand familiarity (28 per cent) and battery life (21 per cent) as the top decision-making factors.

THE TRUST GAP IN SMARTPHONE AI

More than half of Brits surveyed (53 per cent) admit to never using the AI functions on their phones. Almost half (47 per cent) say they don’t know how to operate these features. The challenge is even more pronounced among older users, with 61 per cent of those aged 55+ struggling to navigate AI tools.

Even among active AI users, the focus remains on practical tools like security features such as facial recognition (24 per cent) and virtual assistants (21 per cent), rather than exploring novel AI applications.

Frustration with AI errors 

Fiifty six per cent of users polled report experiencing mishaps, including incorrect predictive text messages (27 per cent) or digital assistant failures (14 per cent). This disconnect highlights a significant gap between innovation and practical utility, says Uswitch mobile specialist Ernest Doku.

WHAT DO USERS REALLY WANT FROM AI?

Rather than today’s AI offerings, respondents envision future tools like lost item locators, pet translators, and even lottery number predictions. Other desired applications include AI solutions for managing customer service calls, reflecting a strong demand for technology that simplifies everyday annoyances rather than adding complexity.

ANDROID VS APPLE: AI USAGE PATTERNS

The research uncovered clear differences in AI usage between Android and Apple users.  Android users  are more likely to rely on spam or scam detection (29 per cent vs. 22 per cent).  Apple users lead in adopting virtual assistants (28 per cent vs.17 per cent) and biometric security features like thumbprint scanning (19 per cent vs.10 per cent).

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/consumers-unimpressed-ai-smartphones-new-survey/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/features/article/analysis-apples-new-ai-era-will-disrupt-lives/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/features/article/analysis-apples-new-ai-era-will-disrupt-lives/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 10:53:45 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/analysis-apples-new-ai-era-will-disrupt-lives/ This year’s WWDC is one of the most significant Apple events in recent years writes IDC vice president for data and analytics Francisco Jeronimo.  With smartphone, tablet and PC sales slowing down due to high adoption rates and offering just incremental improvements from the previous version of devices, Apple needs to reignite consumers excitement to

]]> This year’s WWDC is one of the most significant Apple events in recent years writes IDC vice president for data and analytics Francisco Jeronimo. 

With smartphone, tablet and PC sales slowing down due to high adoption rates and offering just incremental improvements from the previous version of devices, Apple needs to reignite consumers excitement to encourage more frequent upgrades. We all remember the long queues outside Apple stores when a new iPhone was launched! The excitement generated by past product launches is critical Apple’s business and brand.

Since the introduction of the iPhone, the iPad, and the Apple watch, Apple has been the undisputable leader in terms of the user experience, and dominated sales of smartphones, tablets and smartwatches in value terms.

Over the last 17 years Apple has not faced any other disruptive technology as potentially detrimental for its business and its future, as AI, if not tackled in the right way. WWDC 2024 offered Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook, an opportunity to demonstrate how the company will lead in making AI a transformative, advanced, and intelligent experience for their users.

AI-enabled devices will be the fastest growing segment in for smartphones and PCs.

AI will enable Apple to offer unique and intelligent features, experiences and services to their customers. However, the key question remains: will these announcements be enough to secure Apple’s leading position? Many competitors (from phones to PCs vendors) have already revealed their AI strategies and devices. How can Apple stand out and how can a partnership with OpenAI help? 

AI-enabled devices will be the fastest growing segment in for smartphones and PCs. IDC forecasts that AI Smartphones to reach 170 million units in 2024, and AI PCs to account for nearly 60% of all PC shipments by 2027.

 Historically, the App Store has been at the heart of the value proposition of Apple’s iPhone and the iPad. The slogan “there’s an App for that” became iconic. However, AI is set to “kill” the apps and a new era is about to begin for Apple and the industry.

Today, the smartphone is not ‘Smart’ anymore. 

 Previously, the more apps the smartphone (and tablets) was able to run, and the more powerful the apps, the better the smartphone (or the tablet). Today, the smartphone is not ‘Smart’ anymore. With AI, the fewer apps needed and the more a phone can use data contextually to assist the user, the better the phone will be. 

This will revolutionise the user experience, requiring an operating system able to learn from all devices and services in Apple’s ecosystem. Apple’s full control of its ecosystem, hardware and software, and seamless integration gives it a significant advantage over competitors and offers consumers the most powerful experiences among all device makers. This is particularly important when the experience will be defined by how well the phone “knows” the user, which can only be achieved by this seamless integration, while making sure the personal information and data remain private.

Although Apple is not the first to offer AI-enabled features, it is in its DNA to offer the perfect experience. AI will not just offer the best experience, but the most powerful, disruptive, personalized and private, and that’s exactly what Apple showed today with Apple Intelligence.

While AI-generated Emojis will grab the headlines, Apple showcased how AI will empower users in several ways, particularly around productivity, education and entertainment.These are the areas where Apple already excels with its range of services and applications.

 As user interaction shifts from opening an app to asking the phone, Siri is the glue to all of this, the killer feature that will attract consumers to AI enabled devices. Siri will offer a unique way to interact with all Apple devices using our voice in a more personalized and conversational manner.

It will become a true digital assistant contextually understanding various aspects of users’ lives and providing human-like responses by accessing data across all devices to provide the right response to the users’ needs. This conversational digital assistant fully integrated with all devices will be a game changer, and I believe it will offer a compelling reason for many to upgrade their iPhones in the years to come.

Apple’s strength lies in the breath of its portfolio and its ecosystem. For consumers, it does not matter what is the definition of an AI-enabled iPhone, or how many TOPs it can run. What matters is how well a phone can assist users in managing their lives. By reducing the need to navigate multiple apps,

Apple’s AI-enabled devices will offer a smoother, more intuitive and smarter experience. This marks the beginning of a new era for Apple and for their users and will help Apple to benefit from a future super cycle of device sales and the transition to intelligent devices in the years to come.

Francisco will be discussing worldwide trends in used mobile phone sales at Mobile News’ secondary markey conference Circular Summit

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/features/article/analysis-apples-new-ai-era-will-disrupt-lives/feed/ 0

OPPO says AI should not remain exclusive to just flagship phones and selected users but should instead be accessible to more users around the world.

OPPO and MediaTek are tuning chips to enhance chip storage and computational efficiency on future OPPO flagship models. Its partnership with Microsoft intends the next-generation OPPO phones to be equipped with Microsoft natural voice and text conversion and improved connectivity between desktop AI and phones.

“OPPO aims to make AI phones accessible to everyone, ” said Billy Zhang, President of Overseas Sales and Service. “OPPO is bringing generative AI to all product lines. By the end of this year, we expect to bring generative AI features to about 50 million users.”

IDC’s researcgh “Time to Democratise the Impact of AI Tech” forecasts AI phones in the sub-US$1000 segment are expected to grow by 250% in 2024, reaching 35 million units.

OPPO has filed over 5,000 patents related to AI. Around 70 per cent are specifically related to AI imaging. Since 2020, OPPO has developed its own Language Models and has been active in large vision models and multimodal technology. OPPO says it is the first smartphone company to deploy an LLM with seven billion parameters directly on the device. It has rolled out over 100 generative AI features to its phones this year.

OPPO’s next-generation Find X flagship will feature the Google Gemini family LLMs with AI features such as AI Toolbox including AI Writer and AI Recording Summary features.

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/oppo-partners-google-mediatek-bring-ai-entire-range-devices/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/features/article/opinion-ai-can-vision-bring-intelligent-self-healing-networks-closer-reality/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/features/article/opinion-ai-can-vision-bring-intelligent-self-healing-networks-closer-reality/#respond Tue, 28 May 2024 10:03:02 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/opinion-ai-can-vision-bring-intelligent-self-healing-networks-closer-reality/ Advancements in A  and Machine Learning are bringing the future of intelligent, self-healing networks closer to reality writes Justin Day, CEO and founder of network connectivity supplier Cloud Gateway. Imagine a network that can identify problems on its own and fix them, without human intervention. The idea of a network that can generate insights and

Advancements in A  and Machine Learning are bringing the future of intelligent, self-healing networks closer to reality writes Justin Day, CEO and founder of network connectivity supplier Cloud Gateway.

Imagine a network that can identify problems on its own and fix them, without human intervention.

The idea of a network that can generate insights and prevent errors from occurring has been discussed for over a decade now but progress has been slow. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the demand for efficient and reliable network infrastructure has never been greater.

Automating processes with AI and ML

At the core of a self-healing network is the ability to automate complex processes. AI and ML technologies are rapidly evolving, enabling networks to go beyond traditional automation by learning and adapting in real-time.

This means that networks can identify patterns, predict potential issues, and even take corrective actions without human intervention.

Consider a scenario where AI algorithms continuously monitor network performance. By analysing data in real-time, these algorithms can detect anomalies, irregularities, or potential threats. If an issue arises, the AI system not only alerts administrators but also takes proactive measures to remedy the situation, reducing downtime and minimising the impact on the users.

Simplifying network operations

The need for effective network management becomes more important as we continue to embrace hybrid working models. Traditional networks often struggle with clunky and disjointed processes, which can lead to delayed resolutions, increased risk of security breaches, and financial losses.

One of the primary goals of self-healing networks is to swiftly identify and resolve issues before they escalate. By automating routine tasks, such as updates, optimisations, and security protocols, AI simplifies network operations and allows both providers and end-users to have a smoother experience.

This means streamlined maintenance processes and fewer issues related to software failures. The root cause of problems can quickly be pinpointed, and corrective actions are automatically initiated. Whether it’s rerouting traffic to avoid a bottleneck or reallocating resources to optimise performance, AI can be used to empower networks to adapt and recover without human intervention.

This not only enhances operational efficiency but also significantly reduces the burden on IT and network administrators – reducing their workload and providing end-users with a more reliable and consistent network experience.

AI’s journey towards autonomy

It’s no secret that network infrastructure can be complex. Which is why it’s important to give its design and architecture careful thought. While the vision of self-healing networks is compelling, the foundation on which they are built also needs consideration.

There’s no point dedicating time to creating a self-healing network if the underlying infrastructure isn’t robust. As networks grow to connect more people, places and devices, cloud architectures like Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) provide a secure foundation to scale and fuel digital aspirations. Not only capable of handling evolving requirements but also providing the stability needed for the effective functioning of self-healing mechanisms.

Additionally, the evolution of AI and ML is a crucial factor in achieving truly self-sufficient networks. While there’s often concern about AI surpassing human comprehension, it’s important to recognise that AI currently relies on human input for its success. The goal of these technologies is to reduce dependence on human intervention, allowing networks to become increasingly autonomous.

As AI continues to advance, the fears of it surpassing human understanding should be replaced with the view that AI is a tool that complements human capabilities. Rather than perceiving it as a threat, AI can be embraced as a network management partner, one that opens opportunities to enhance everyday processes.

Realising the potential of AI beyond hype

We need to move beyond the hype cycle and recognise the tangible impact AI and ML have already demonstrated. For instance, healthcare technology applications showcase the potential of AI to detect diseases and support clinical decision-making. In financial services, the technology is being used to spot data processing errors and enhance customer interaction.

By shifting our perspective and acknowledging AI as a transformative force with practical applications, there is an opportunity to unlock its potential to enhance network management. By leveraging its capabilities to automate processes, swiftly identify and resolve issues, simplify operations, and move towards greater autonomy,

AI has the ability to transform networks into intelligent, self-healing entities. Shaping a future where cloud architectures support a wave of more resilient, efficient, and reliable networks that meet the demands of our increasingly connected world.

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The survey was of 250 UK respondents made up of employees, IT decision makers and resellers from accommodation, construction, IT/Comms, manufacturing, professional services, retail, and utilities

As 5G continues its rollout, 78 percent of resellers report customer inquiries about 5G., Around 61 percent of IT decision-makers plan to invest in AI within the next year, driven by 59 percent of employees calling for AI developments. However, 27 percent of IT decision-makers and 20 percent of employees still do not fully grasp AI’s significance.

Eighty percent of IT decision-makers said that upgrading technology enhances employee performance, with 75 percent of those surveyed prioritizing tech investments this year.

Around 42 percent of channel resellers surveyed cited cybersecurity as a top priority, while only 27 percent of IT decision-makers and 25 percent of employees were concerned.

Sustainability is quite a big deal, with 40 percent of resellers and around a third of customers viewing it as a priority.

Seventy-five percent of respondents across all groups support remote work at least once a week, with most wanting two remote days.

Employee demand for better connectivity is strong, with 65 percent seeking faster and more reliable connections. The shift to all-IP is not prioritized, with only 31 percent of IT decision-makers and 16 percent of employees recognizing its importance.

Gavin Jones, Channel Partners Director at BT Wholesale, commented: “Our research offers invaluable insights for partner growth. Embracing 5G, AI, and cybersecurity is essential. The channel must navigate the evolving tech landscape.”

–

BT and computers and information technology company Atos have launched Digital Vision, a new computer vision solution to help revoluntionise different industries.

Computer vision is part of artificial intelligence (AI) which enables computers and systems to translate information from visual feeds such as digital images, and take automated actions based on the information.

The solution combines BT’s digital connectivity with Atos’s Computer Vision Platform, a scalable end-to-end solution that provides pre-trained and customisable AI models.

Digital Vision will use BT’s 5G/FTTx multi-access connectivity and edge computing to ensure business customers can access a scalable, ready-to-deploy service with constant support and expertise. 

New visions

BT’s MD for Division X as part of its enterprise unit Marc Overton said: “This partnership with Atos gives us access to the Computer Vision market for the first time, providing us the opportunity to play an even bigger role in the digital transformation of businesses around the world. 

“Not only will businesses be able to better leverage their video stream data, improve their operational efficiency and enhance their monitoring, but they will also be able to mitigate risk, increase revenue through data monetisation, unlock new applications and open new channels to market.”

Atos global head of telecom, media and technology Jean-Claude Geha added: “Atos plays an essential role in co-developing innovative use cases with CSP (Communications Services Provider) for real-time businesses, thanks to its extensive knowledge of Edge and AI technologies and its deep expertise in system integration. 

“We are excited to work, once again, with BT to unlock new capabilities for the Enterprise market where BT is seeking to offer much needed Vertical Digital use cases to increase efficiency, boost productivity, and to improve business opportunities and customer experience.”

Likewize is using artificial intelligence (AI) developed by Synectics Solutions to help customers avoid the costs of fraudulent claims and ensure real claims are settled quicker.

Data insight specialist Synectics Solutions will provide its service Precision, a cloud-based, predictive analytics tool that rapidly investigates claims that pose risks and see patterns that may otherwise be missed.

Data is matched with National SIRA, the UK’s largest syndicated database of cross-sector customer risk intelligence as well as other data sources and machine-learning techniques.

Synectics Solutions has a database of a third of a billion records to help tackle organised financial crime, money laundering, and resolve customer ID matters. 

Likewize European VP Gerry O’Keefe said: “Our clients rely on us to deliver fast resolutions for their policy holders. 

“They also do not want to be paying for ineligible claims and sadly, tech policy fraud is a growing issue. 

“We are able to use real intelligence to quickly and accurately identify legitimate claims which we resolve at speed and then identify the cases where the data predicts there is fraud risk.”

Virgin Media O2 Business has switched on the UK’s first 5G-connected hospital with South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust at Bethlem Royal Hospital.

The switch on marks the start of new digital health and innovation trials at Maudsley Digital Lab funded by the NHS- using a private 5G network to produce connectivity for use cases for clinicians and patients. 

The Maudsley Smart Hospital and Maudsley Smart Pharmacy 5G trials are live across two wards at Bethlem Royal Hospital and will investigate the benefits of using 5G connected technologies. 

The e-Obs (e-Observations) app means clinicians monitor patients vital signs, as well as using handheld devices to update patients records.

An IoT innovation lab and platform will look at smart, connected use cases including tracking air quality inside wards and remotely monitoring fridges so medicine is stored at the correct temperature.

‘Remote Expert’, Virgin Media O2 Business’s AR connected headset will allow a specialist in another location to lead on-site workers when completing complex tasks.

Using Spatial Insights, AI will be used to create heat maps to identify movement patterns in the hospital so staff can get a better insight into waiting times and busy hotspots in the hospital.

Virgin Media O2 Business large enterprise and public sector director Mike Smith said: “We’re proud to announce the switch-on of the UK’s first 5G-connected hospital – showing how next-generation technology can help create a smarter, modern healthcare service for everyone. 

“Our aim is to map out the rollout of wireless and smart hospital connectivity across the NHS estate over the next three to five years. 

“Trials like this are the embodiment of our mission to upgrade the UK, and a clear sign of the role we can play in helping to shape the NHS of the future.”