The telecommunications sector plays a leading role in digitalisation and the application of data science. Telecommunications companies already have established data warehouses and a large amount of network operating data, which forms a solid basis for the effective use of advanced artificial intelligence (AI).
A short study carried out by WIK-Consult on behalf of RTR analyses how Austrian telecoms operators are already using AI, where they plan to use it and what challenges the sector sees at national and international level. In particular, the areas of customer management, customer services, network operation, network planning and network configuration were analysed. These areas offer considerable potential for the use of AI, be it to improve customer satisfaction, optimise network resources or efficiently plan and configure networks.
The study emphasises that regulation and standardisation play a central role in the successful use of AI in the telecommunications sector. Legal uncertainties can hinder the use of AI and the associated innovations. Therefore, regulation that ensures transparency and clarity is crucial in order to remove potential barriers and pave the way for technological progress.
Overall, the study shows that the telecommunications sector in Austria is already taking important steps towards the comprehensive use of AI, but also faces significant challenges. The combination of technological progress, smart regulation and clear standards will determine how successfully AI can be used in telecommunications. This will not only have an impact on the efficiency of networks and the quality of services, but also on the competitiveness of the sector in international comparison.
