SK Telecom from Korea and Singtel from Singapore have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing advanced telecommunications networks over the next two years. Under the terms of the deal, the partners will explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and orchestration tools, and deepen their expertise in network virtualization and other technologies essential for advancing towards future 6G systems.
The two Asian carriers announced their collaboration on developing innovative solutions to enhance their network capabilities, including edge-AI infrastructure. This initiative aims to improve connectivity, offer distinctive AI services to customers, and expedite service restoration, thereby enhancing overall customer experience.
Furthermore, SK Telecom and Singtel plan to produce a white paper detailing their progress in virtualization, network slicing, and network evolution. This document aims to assist global telecommunications companies in leveraging 5G technology and preparing for the future advancements of 6G.
SK Telecom’s head of ICT infra, Kang Jong-ryeol said, “By combining the strengths of both companies, we aim to achieve efficient high-performance network construction, enhance network stability and discover new network-based services. Additionally, we will strive to make significant advancements in next-generation communication technologies, including AI-powered wired and wireless infrastructure.”
Tay Yeow Lian, Singtel’s managing director of networks said, “As a global leader in 5G technology, we’re keen to capitalize on the myriad of capabilities this technology has to offer, especially in the areas of network slicing and with the inclusion of AI. With SK Telecom, we’re looking to not only enhance the experience of our customers but to also drive industry innovation and help us prepare for the evolution to 6G.” SK Telecom and Singtel, along with Deutsche Telekom, e&, and SoftBank Corp., are founding members of the Global Telco AI Alliance. This alliance aims to accelerate AI integration within the telecommunications sector and develop new business models powered by AI. In June 2024, the members entered a joint venture agreement to co-create and launch multilingual Large Language Models (LLMs) tailored specifically for telco needs.
As of the first quarter of this year, SK Telecom reported a total of 15.93 million subscribers in the 5G segment, marking a 12.6% increase from 14.14 million in the same period last year. During the first quarter of 2023, the company added approximately 530,000 new 5G subscribers. By the end of March, SK Telecom’s 5G subscribers constituted 70% of its overall handset subscribers, up from 61% in March 2023.