Nokia Announces Speech-Based AI Network Management Tools
Nokia Bell Labs has announced a new natural language processing (NLP) solution for configuring networks using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Developed by Nokia Bell Labs’ UNEXT research initiative, the company’s Natural-Language Network aims to transform the way networks operate. This announcement comes as Nokia expands its network infrastructure to keep up with the growing demand for connectivity in the industrial metaverse.
The new digital tools were unveiled at the Brooklyn 6G Summit in New York, where Nokia showcased the NLP solution’s ability to configure networks using prompts and speech. The solution will understand user intentions and autonomously operate using AI neural networking.
Using Natural-Language Networks, Nokia aims to streamline network management with AI, moving away from complex setups to more agile and responsive systems that cater to the end user’s needs. These intelligent systems will monitor and learn from previous prompts and responses to optimize networks after each successful request.
Operators will no longer need to refer to technical catalogues or complex API descriptions when configuring networks. Instead, simple statements like “Optimize the network at X location for Y service” will suffice. For example, these requests could be used to configure a wireless network in a factory for robot automation or optimize networks at a concert for a barrage of social media uploads.
The UNEXT research initiative was created by Nokia Bell Labs to support the company’s efforts to innovate its network infrastructure. Drawing inspiration from the groundbreaking UNIX operating system invented by Bell Labs in the 1960s, UNEXT aims to redefine network software and systems. The goal is to integrate various processes in the telecoms network, effectively evolving it into an operating system.
The announcement comes at a critical time for Nokia as it scales up its network capacities to meet the increasing demand for bandwidth, speed, and reliability. The rise of technologies like virtual, augmented, and mixed reality, along with the digital transformation of global enterprises, is putting immense pressure on 4G and 5G networks.
To ensure the safety and trustworthiness of AI, governments are also taking action. United States President Joe Biden recently signed an executive order on safe and secure AI, which includes requirements for developers to share safety test results and other data with the government. The Department of Homeland Security has also established an AI Safety and Security Board to address AI systems’ threats to critical infrastructure and cybersecurity risks.
The United Kingdom is hosting its AI Security Summit at Bletchley Park, known for its breakthroughs in computer science and World War II codebreaking. The summit aims to coordinate actions on mitigating AI risks and developing national and international frameworks for best practices.
Overall, Nokia’s speech-based AI network management tools have the potential to revolutionize network operations, allowing for more agile and responsive systems. As the demand for connectivity continues to grow, innovations in AI and machine learning will play a crucial role in ensuring efficient and reliable network management.
