The convergence of 5.5G technology and artificial intelligence (AI) is paving the way for the next phase of innovation in mobile technology, especially in the context of smart cities. At the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024) in Istanbul, Türkiye, industry experts, telecom providers, and technology pioneers gathered to discuss how 5.5G and AI can be transformative in addressing urban challenges and enhancing the quality of life in metropolitan areas. The event, organized by Huawei in collaboration with GSMA and GTI, focused on the theme “5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era” and highlighted how intelligent connectivity can drive smart city growth and development.
The new 5.5G networks, known for their significant speed and bandwidth improvements over 5G, paired with AI’s real-time data processing capabilities, present a groundbreaking opportunity for urban development. Smart cities rely on vast amounts of data generated by IoT devices, sensors, and connected infrastructure to manage resources efficiently, reduce waste, improve security, and enhance public services. The fusion of 5.5G with AI allows cities to process this data in real-time, making it possible to implement responsive, data-driven solutions across various sectors.
At the forum, Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman, emphasized the importance of AI in future urban networks, stating, “In the future, AI will change everything, creating environments where cities are more responsive, efficient, and resilient.” With 5.5G networks, cities can support a larger number of connected devices while ensuring low-latency communication, which is essential for critical functions such as traffic management, public safety, and energy distribution.
MBBF 2024 showcased a range of smart city solutions, all built on the capabilities of 5.5G and AI. Among the highlights were AI-driven applications for traffic management, environmental monitoring, and public safety. For instance, real-time traffic analysis powered by 5.5G-enabled cameras and sensors can dynamically adjust traffic signals to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and promote efficient fuel usage. These technologies can also facilitate the management of autonomous vehicles, providing a seamless flow of information to ensure safe and efficient transport networks.
Moreover, intelligent connectivity allows cities to implement energy-efficient solutions. With AI algorithms analyzing energy use patterns, urban areas can optimize power distribution, reduce energy waste, and even predict outages before they occur. This can lead to significant cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint, contributing to a sustainable urban ecosystem.
One of the key areas where 5.5G and AI integration proves transformative is in public safety and emergency response. The enhanced bandwidth and low latency of 5.5G networks make it possible to stream high-definition video from surveillance cameras across cities, aiding law enforcement and emergency services in real-time threat assessment and response.
During MBBF 2024, a live demonstration showcased how AI-powered drones connected via 5.5G networks could assist in emergency situations by providing first responders with live video feeds and instant situational analysis. These technologies can help public safety officials monitor events more closely and dispatch resources more effectively, ultimately reducing response times and saving lives.
Smart city platforms powered by 5.5G and AI can also facilitate direct interaction between city governments and citizens, fostering a more inclusive urban environment. MBBF 2024 demonstrated how mobile AI applications could streamline services like waste management, public transport schedules, and community reporting systems, allowing residents to access city services from their mobile devices seamlessly.
Through AI-powered insights, cities can understand resident needs better, providing tailored solutions to common urban challenges. For example, real-time translation services offered via mobile AI can help cities support multicultural populations, improving accessibility to public services for non-native speakers and enhancing social inclusion.
Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President, highlighted that the potential of 5.5G and AI will only be fully realized if city infrastructure and policies are optimized to support intelligent connectivity. “The mobile AI era is here, and cities need to adapt to make the most of these opportunities,” said Peng. By investing in network infrastructure and embracing AI-driven solutions, urban areas can create an adaptable, sustainable, and people-centered future.
MBBF 2024 also underscored the need for strong partnerships among technology providers, local governments, and industry leaders to ensure a cohesive approach to smart city development. Through these collaborations, cities can build ecosystems that not only support current AI and 5.5G capabilities but are also adaptable to future advancements, ensuring that urban technology evolves alongside resident needs.
The discussions and demonstrations at MBBF 2024 highlighted a promising vision of the future—where cities are not only more connected but also more intelligent and responsive to the needs of their residents. By harnessing the combined power of 5.5G and AI, cities can unlock new efficiencies, create sustainable growth models, and enhance the quality of life for millions.
As the global push for smart city development continues, the convergence of 5.5G and AI stands as a foundational step. With collaborative innovation, cities worldwide can prepare for a future of connected, efficient, and resilient urban living, shaping the next generation of intelligent cities. For more information, please visit MBBF2024 at: https://www.huawei.com/en/events/mbbf2024.
