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  • Netcracker Boosts AIS’s Digital Transformation with Major Cloud Deployment & Revenue Management Upgrade

    Netcracker Boosts AIS’s Digital Transformation with Major Cloud Deployment & Revenue Management Upgrade

    Netcracker Technology recently completed a significant cloud-native revenue management upgrade for Advanced Info Service (AIS), establishing one of the most substantial cloud deployments in Thailand and the wider Asia-Pacific region. This update signifies a critical progression in AIS’s digital transformation strategy, as the telecom operator enhances its converged mobile and broadband services for its customer base of over 45 million.

    AIS Adopts Netcracker’s Revenue Management Platform

    AIS transitioned to Netcracker’s Cloud-Native Revenue Management platform, a component of the Netcracker Digital BSS suite, to better cater to both B2C and B2B quad-play users. The platform can facilitate flexible subscription billing on monthly, quarterly, and yearly intervals, bolstering customer preference and streamlining billing processes.

    Netcracker has indicated that the launch provides significant operational and commercial advantages, such as increased scalability, cost-effectiveness, and an expedited time-to-market for novel offerings. These features are predicted to bolster AIS’s expanding 5G aspirations, especially in the realms of enterprise 5G and IoT services, as AIS gears up for future market growth.

    Words from the Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer

    AIS’s Chief Information Officer, Bharat Alva, announced that the successful full-circle delivery of the new cloud-native revenue management platform within strict timeframes has already demonstrated its stability and scalability by supporting significant launches and events, such as the most recent iPhone release, without interruption. As AIS continues to transfer customers to this new platform, it plans to capitalize on its momentum with Netcracker by introducing more features and improvements in the immediate future.

    Netcracker’s Chief Technology Officer, Bob Titus, expressed appreciation for their longstanding partnership with AIS, commending them as a genuinely advanced telecommunications operator in a region recognized for numerous innovations. He stated that this launch is the best endorsement of how their customers continue to benefit from their sustained investment in cloud and AI technologies.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the cloud-native revenue management platform do for AIS?
    The platform allows AIS to offer its customers flexible subscription billing on a monthly, quarterly, and yearly basis, enhancing customer choice and making the billing process more efficient.

    What are the benefits of this new deployment for AIS?
    The deployment offers several operational and commercial benefits, including increased scalability, cost optimization, and the ability to bring new offerings to the market at a faster pace.

    How will this upgrade support AIS’s future growth?
    The capabilities provided by this upgrade are expected to support AIS’s growing ambitions in enterprise 5G and IoT services, assisting the company in its preparations for future market expansion.

  • AIS and Thaicom Boost Border Connectivity, Navigating Thai-Cambodian Tensions with Strategic Collaboration

    AIS and Thaicom Boost Border Connectivity, Navigating Thai-Cambodian Tensions with Strategic Collaboration

    Amid escalating tensions at the Thai-Cambodian border, leading Thai telecom providers AIS and Thaicom are stepping up to bolster support for security forces by enhancing communication networks in critical areas. Aiming to improve border control measures, the two giants have ramped up connectivity in four strategically important provinces: Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Buriram.

    In a concerted effort to facilitate seamless operations, AIS and Thaicom have rolled out enhanced 4G and 5G networks alongside temporary mobile base stations. These upgrades are crucial for ensuring uninterrupted communication and effective situational coordination among military units ion the ground. It’s not every day you see telecom operators going toe-to-toe with geopolitical challenges, but in this case, they’re stepping up the plate.

    Advanced Info Service (AIS), recognized as Thailand’s leading mobile operator, is actively reinforcing digital infrastructure to enable real-time monitoring and accelerate response times in border operations. Its commitment not only solidifies its market position but also plays a pivotal role in national security.

    Complementing AIS’s efforts, Thaicom, the nation’s premier satellite communications provider, is enhancing its service by ensuring high-speed internet access through satellite systems—especially in remote areas where conventional networks falter. Their connectivity solutions utilize both fixed satellite terminals for command centers and mobile terminals for operational units, enabling reliable communication even in the most isolated corners.

    Questions & Answers

    How are AIS and Thaicom enhancing communication for security forces?
    AIS and Thaicom are improving connectivity by deploying 4G and 5G network enhancements and temporary mobile base stations across key provinces, thus ensuring uninterrupted communication for military operations.

    What specific areas are affected by these telecom improvements?
    The telecom enhancements are being implemented in four provinces: Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Buriram, all of which are vital for effective border control.

    Why is Thaicom’s satellite communication particularly important?
    Thaicom’s satellite communication is crucial for providing high-speed internet access in remote areas where traditional networks are unavailable, ensuring seamless communication for security forces operating in isolated regions.

  • AIS Unveils Nation’s First Homegrown Hyperscale Cloud Platform, Pioneering the Future of Digital Services

    AIS Unveils Nation’s First Homegrown Hyperscale Cloud Platform, Pioneering the Future of Digital Services

    Thailand is making waves in the digital landscape with AIS Business unveiling the country’s first hyperscale cloud infrastructure, entirely operated by a Thai company. This bold move comes as demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-ready platforms surges, underscoring an important step toward achieving digital sovereignty.

    Empowering Thailand’s Digital Future

    Dubbed ‘AIS Cloud powered by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure,’ this ambitious initiative involves an investment of THB 4 billion dedicated to locally governed data centers. As concerns over data security and compliance grow, this infrastructure aims to provide peace of mind in a rapidly changing digital environment.

    Phupa Akavipat, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at AIS, emphasized the importance of localized AI capabilities for Thailand’s future. “We firmly believe that Thailand must have its own AI capabilities to ensure long-term technological sovereignty and resilience. Digital infrastructure owned and operated by Thais is the cornerstone of national development in the digital era,” he stated, illustrating the initiative’s strategic importance.

    On-the-Ground Benefits Beyond Technology

    AIS Cloud promises a range of localized benefits, including Thai-language contracts and the ability to conduct transactions in Thai baht, effectively mitigating concerns surrounding currency fluctuations. Moreover, the platform is designed for high scalability, making it well-suited for handling large workloads while supporting cutting-edge technologies like machine learning (ML) and big data analytics. It’s as though the cloud just got a Thai twist!

    Government Support Fuels Innovation

    The launch has garnered strong endorsements from the Thai government, with Dr. Passakon Prathombutr of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) announcing that AIS Business has achieved the prestigious dSURE 3-Star certification. This accolade marks the highest national standard for cloud services, ensuring secure, local data storage without cross-border transfers—an essential alignment with Thailand’s digital economy ambitions.

    Wisit Wisitsora-at, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, hailed AIS Cloud as a crucial element in the national cloud policy. He highlighted the vital collaboration between government and industry to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure, bolster the talent pool, and update regulatory frameworks.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the primary goal of AIS Cloud powered by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure?
    The primary goal is to establish a robust, secure cloud infrastructure that supports Thailand’s digital sovereignty and AI capabilities, allowing for localized control over data and compliance.

    How does AIS Cloud cater to the specific needs of Thai users?
    The platform offers Thai-language contracts, transactions in Thai baht, and local expert support, ensuring that services are tailored to the needs of Thai businesses and consumers.

    What significance does the dSURE 3-Star certification hold for AIS Cloud?
    Achieving the dSURE 3-Star certification means AIS Cloud meets the highest national standards for security and data management, assuring users of safe, localized data storage without cross-border transfers.

  • AIS Unveils Groundbreaking Homegrown Hyperscale Cloud Platform, Revolutionizing Digital Infrastructure in Thailand

    AIS Unveils Groundbreaking Homegrown Hyperscale Cloud Platform, Revolutionizing Digital Infrastructure in Thailand

    Thailand is making waves in the tech world with the launch of its first hyperscale cloud infrastructure, developed entirely by a homegrown company. This bold step from AIS Business comes at a crucial time, as the demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-ready platforms continues to surge. The service, named ‘AIS Cloud powered by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure,’ is backed by a robust initial investment of THB 4 billion, aimed at establishing locally governed data centers across the nation.

    Building Digital Sovereignty

    In an age where digital identity is as valuable as gold, Phupa Akavipat, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at AIS, emphasized the necessity of nurturing Thailand’s own AI capabilities. “We firmly believe that Thailand must have its own AI capabilities to ensure long-term technological sovereignty and resilience,” he stated. Akavipat sees the new infrastructure as a cornerstone for national development, reinforcing Thailand’s place in the global digital landscape.

    A Localized Cloud Experience

    AIS Cloud is designed with local users in mind, offering Thai-language contracts and transactions in Thai baht, allowing businesses to sidestep potential currency fluctuations. It also promises enhanced support, featuring Thai-speaking experts ready to assist. The platform boasts advanced capabilities like auto-scaling for heavy workloads and full compatibility with emerging technologies such as machine learning (ML) and big data analytics, making it an appealing option for local enterprises eager to innovate.

    Government Backing and Certification

    The launch has garnered significant support from the Thai government. Dr. Passakon Prathombutr of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) highlighted a landmark achievement, announcing that AIS Business is the first Thai provider to receive the prestigious dSURE 3-Star certification. This accolade, the highest national standard for cloud services, guarantees secure, local data storage without cross-border transfers, aligning perfectly with Thailand’s ambitions for a thriving digital economy.

    Enhancing National Cloud Policy

    Wisit Wisitsora-at, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, expressed strong endorsement for the initiative, identifying it as a key element of the national cloud policy. He stressed that collaboration between government and industry is vital for enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure and developing a skilled talent pool that meets modern demands. In a landscape often fraught with uncertainty, this partnership could be the secret ingredient to a brighter digital future for Thailand.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of AIS Cloud in Thailand’s tech landscape?
    AIS Cloud represents a crucial advancement toward digital sovereignty, providing Thailand with independent AI capabilities and enhancing the country’s overall technological infrastructure.

    How does AIS Cloud address the needs of local businesses?
    The platform offers features like Thai-language contracts and transaction support in Thai baht, catering specifically to local companies and helping them navigate currency fluctuations.

    What role does the government play in supporting AIS Cloud’s launch?
    The Thai government has actively backed the initiative, with notable officials endorsing the project as a cornerstone of national digital policy and emphasizing the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors.

  • AIS’s Strategic Vision for Empowering 5G with Autonomous Networks

    AIS’s Strategic Vision for Empowering 5G with Autonomous Networks

    At the 2024 Mobile Broadband Forum, Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operations and Support Business Unit, AIS, presented the company’s vision for integrating AI and advanced network orchestration within 5G frameworks, setting the stage for seamless, intelligent, and highly scalable telecom infrastructure.

    AIS’s approach centers on transforming network layers, from service orchestration to integrating AI-driven insights. This architecture, designed to optimize performance, reliability, and adaptability, places AIS at the forefront of a 5G-driven, AI-enhanced telecom landscape.

    AIS is leveraging advanced cognitive technologies to lead the digital transformation in telecom, focusing on AI, machine learning (ML), 5G, and autonomous networks to enhance operational efficiency and create innovative customer experiences. The company’s strategy in the mobile segment revolves around 5G monetization, where AIS aims to generate new revenue streams by offering premium services, experiences, connected vehicles, and innovative city applications, fully utilizing the low-latency and high-speed capabilities of 5G. AIS is also focusing on digital differentiation, offering personalized mobile experiences through AI that provide dynamic services and tailored content recommendations, ensuring an engaging and relevant customer experience.

    The company has set its sights on quality acquisition in the fixed broadband space by using AI-driven analytics to optimize service delivery, ensuring high performance and a seamless user experience. This approach includes predictive maintenance and customized broadband solutions. AIS is also introducing innovative broadband products, such as smart home integrations, gigabit internet, and 5G fixed wireless access (FWA), providing flexibility and high-speed connectivity in areas lacking traditional broadband infrastructure.

    Moreover, AIS is supporting the digital transformation of enterprise solutions by enabling enterprises to modernize their operations with AI, IoT, and cloud-based services, helping businesses embrace Industry 4.0 technologies. To achieve this, AIS offers enhanced connectivity for enterprises, providing reliable, high-speed 5G solutions to support mission-critical applications and ensure seamless operation.

    The backbone of AIS’s strategy lies in its data insights and customer care. By applying advanced analytics, AIS can predict and resolve customer service issues before they arise, improving satisfaction. AI-driven interactions facilitate seamless engagement, whether it be through chatbots, apps, or virtual assistants, offering a personalized customer journey.

    AIS is also enhancing agility, stability, and security in its operations. AI-driven IT intelligence continuously monitors and optimizes network performance, allowing AIS to respond quickly to changing market conditions and customer needs. In terms of security, AIS employs AI to detect and neutralize threats in real time, ensuring a secure environment for both consumers and enterprise clients.

    With autonomous networks powered by AI and ML, AIS aims to improve network reliability by enabling self-healing and self-optimizing systems. These autonomous networks automate operational tasks such as network provisioning and fault resolution, reducing costs while ensuring high-quality service even during peak traffic

    In terms of generative AI (GenAI), AIS is exploring new business models and customer experiences. AIS remains ahead of the competition by using AI to generate new product designs, service packages, and predictive insights into customer behavior. Generative AI also enhances customer interactions by delivering personalized content and recommendations in real time.

    Leading Thailand’s 5G-Advanced Transformation

    Wattanasap’s presentation emphasized that AIS is leading the way in 5G-Advanced technology in Thailand. It aims to redefine connectivity with a robust, autonomous network that presents new business opportunities and enhances customer experiences. By shifting from traditional traffic monetization to experience-driven models, AIS uses 5G’s ultra-low latency, high speed, and massive connectivity to offer personalized services like VR/AR, gaming, and smart city solutions. This approach allows AIS to create dynamic, tiered service offerings and monetize 5G traffic based on customer behavior.

    AIS’s strategy also maximizes 5G coverage across all frequency bands, ensuring reliable service in urban and remote areas. With the evolution from L3 to L4 network automation, AIS integrates self-healing and AI-driven decision-making, providing excellent reliability and cost efficiency as it scales its 5G network.

    In 2024, AIS is leading the way in Thailand by introducing the country’s first 3CC carrier aggregation and repurposing the 2.1 GHz spectrum for 5G, enhancing network capacity, and boosting speeds. The successful completion of the mmWave Gbps trials further positions AIS to provide ultra-fast, high-bandwidth connectivity in high-demand areas, enabling innovative services like cloud gaming and intelligent manufacturing.

    AIS also enhances customer care by integrating AI solutions that proactively predict and resolve issues, improving service efficiency and satisfaction. The company is transforming its operations with predictive analytics and automation, ensuring seamless customer support as it scales its 5G network.

    Living Network: Real-Time, AI-Driven 5G Experiences

    AIS’s Care Growth strategy focuses on creating a “Living Network” that adapts in real time to customer needs, offering on-demand 5G services powered by AI and machine learning (ML). By analyzing user behavior, network conditions, and service quality in real time, the network can automatically adjust to optimize experiences, such as prioritizing bandwidth for high-value users or enhancing quality for streaming and gaming.

    AIS also uses AI to promote 5G acceleration packages tailored to users’ needs, offering relevant services, improving customer acquisition, and increasing 5G adoption. The network identifies high-value users and adjusts bandwidth allocation dynamically to ensure seamless service, even during peak times.

    Utilizing experience-driven marketing, AIS can offer 5G packages instantly, boosting penetration rates and enhancing ARPU through personalized add-on packages that address users’ real-time needs. The system ensures differentiated experiences, guaranteeing low latency, high speed, and secure customer connectivity.

    Care Strategy: Liquid Network for Enhanced User Experience

    AIS’s Liquid Network Experience enhances user satisfaction by leveraging dynamic network management practices at the L3 and L4 stages.

    At the L3 stage, AIS handles burst events, cell outages, and traffic surges by adjusting capacity in real time, ensuring seamless connectivity during peak periods. This proactive approach improves customer satisfaction by over 10% and reduces churn through intelligent traffic compensation.

    At the L4 stage, AIS predicts network demand using AI-driven analytics, optimizing coverage and capacity minutes in advance to maintain service quality during high-traffic events. This predictive approach boosts user experience by up to 20%, ensuring stable connections even during congestion.

    AIS also compensates users during traffic floods, such as those prevalent in Chiang Mai, by rerouting traffic and offering faster speeds or extra data. This flexibility strengthens customer trust and loyalty.

    L4 Architecture Evolution: AI, Automation, and Customer Focus

    AIS is transforming its network operations with a robust L4 architecture to integrate AI, automation, and advanced data management. This transformation enhances customer service, workforce efficiency, and network optimization across three core layers—business, service, and core data.

    In the business layer, AIS employs the 2C (customer-centric), 2H (human-centric), and 2B (business-centric) framework. Customer-focused improvements aim to enhance user satisfaction through real-time fault management and AI-powered responsive support. Workforce optimization tools streamline field operations while enhanced business service orchestration and API-driven monetization support business growth.

    The service layer focuses on real-time network and resource management. Key elements include AI-powered fault detection, automated service orchestration, and workforce management, ensuring optimal resource use and service continuity. An integrated API Gateway facilitates seamless communication across systems and departments, further boosting operational efficiency.

    Enhanced DevOps automation with AI-driven orchestration and open API integration supports efficient network management and faster service deployment. Digital Twin models and AI-powered applications, like the FME and Call Center Copilots, empower autonomous operations and proactive issue resolution. The architecture promotes single-domain autonomy, allowing segments of the network to self-manage and adapt to changing demands efficiently.

    Industry Engagement and Contribution 

    Since 2022, AIS has consistently positioned itself at the forefront of the telecom industry, as evident in the range of prestigious awards recognizing its innovations, quality, and forward-looking strategies. Through its achievements, AIS has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in 5G and autonomous network (AN) solutions, emphasizing the transformative impact of these technologies on the industry.

    The company is also deeply committed to collaboration, working closely with industry partners to expand AN practices, and co-create sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships. This collaborative approach enables AIS to foster innovation, build leadership, and drive digital transformation across multiple verticals. By joining forces with key stakeholders, AIS aims to empower diverse industries through cutting-edge digital solutions, cementing its leadership and contributing to the growth of a connected, resilient, digital future.

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  • AIS Leads the Way in Southern Thailand with SEA COVERAGE Network

    AIS Leads the Way in Southern Thailand with SEA COVERAGE Network

    The network is equipped to handle the anticipated increase in usage during the year-end and peak tourism season in the south. It incorporates advanced technology to enhance its digital infrastructure and serve various sectors, including government, services, fisheries, tourism, hospitality, restaurants, and both local and international tourists.

    Kitti Ngarmchatetanarom, Chief Technology Officer at AIS, expressed, “Our goal is to establish a comprehensive digital infrastructure in the southern region that is extensive, advanced, and well-connected to the Ecosystem Economy in all aspects. This means that every area covered by the AIS signal network not only facilitates digital communication but also promotes the growth of the southern economy, including tourism, services, tour operators, hotels, ferry services, yacht and speedboat businesses, restaurants, and even the coastal and deep-sea fisheries industries.”

    Paiboon Rinsakun, Head of Regional Operations, South, AIS, added, “AIS has significantly enhanced service quality, network reliability, and SEA COVERAGE (both the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman coasts), encompassing coastal regions, islands, and sea routes—by land, sea, and air. We have developed our network structure to continuously expand coverage while integrating signal transmission systems, technological advancements, and renewable energy to tackle the unique challenges posed by geographical features from coastal areas to the open sea.”

    Currently, AIS’s 5G and 4G networks blanket more than 95% of southern Thailand, focusing on prominent tourist spots recognized globally, such as Ratchaprapa Dam in Surat Thani, Maya Bay in Krabi, and Surin Islands National Park in Phang Nga. These initiatives aim to meet the demands of tourists who want to capture photos, videos, and create content to share instantly on social media.

    “To accommodate both Thai and international tourists exploring the natural wonders of southern Thailand during the peak season, we assure that AIS SEA COVERAGE will ensure optimal performance. We are confident that AIS’s robust digital infrastructure will play a crucial role in supporting the recovery and expansion of the tourism sector and contribute to the sustainable development of the ocean economy,” Ngarmchatetanarom concluded.

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  • Apple in talks to license Google’s Gemini AI to improve Siri, add new iOS features

    Apple in talks to license Google’s Gemini AI to improve Siri, add new iOS features

    The upcoming iOS 18 update is expected to be one of the biggest-if not the biggest-in iOS history. Part of that is due to the myriad AI features that Apple will be adding to the operating system including possible improvements to digital assistant Siri. While the date has not yet been announced, many iPhone users are looking forward to this June’s WWDC 2024 developer conference to see what changes Apple plans for its digital assistant.

    When Siri first hit the scene in 2011 with the introduction of the iPhone 4s, it appeared that Apple was on to something big. But eventually, Siri’s capabilities and performance were surpassed by Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa and a shot of AI could be the cure for what ails the old gal. Apple is talking with Google about licensing the latter’s Gemini AI. The talks between the two tech giants have progressed to the negotiating stage.

    Besides improving Siri, Apple hopes to use Gemini to add new AI-based features to iOS 18. Apple and Google already have an agreement to make Google the default search engine on Safari, a deal that reportedly pays Apple nearly $20 billion annually. Because the DOJ is investigating this deal, any deal involving Apple and Google, including one that would allow Apple to use Gemini, would probably have to be agreed to by the Justice Department or some other regulatory agency in the U.S.

    On Android, users can install the Gemini app and opt-in to have Gemini replace the Google Assistant although some features, such as reminders, controlling media, and routines will not work with Gemini. If you opted in to replace Google Assistant with Gemini and want to switch back, go to the Gemini app, tap the profile icon, go to settings, tap on “Digital assistants from Google” at the bottom, and select Google Assistant. On iOS, Gemini can be accessed from the Gemini tap in the top center of the Google app, right under the digital assistant.

    Should Apple and Google agree to license Gemini, we should see a greatly improved Siri, which is what all iPhone users have been hoping for.

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  • Nokia and AIS Fibre Trial Fastest Broadband in Asia

    Nokia and AIS Fibre Trial Fastest Broadband in Asia

    Nokia and AIS Fibre announced the first trial of their 25G PON solution in Asia. AIS Fibre in Thailand trialed the technology using its existing optical line terminals (OLT), which have already been rolled out nationwide. The OLT was connected simultaneously to three end-user devices with a combined speed of 37.5 Gb/s using a 25G PON optical network terminal (ONT) at 25 Gb/s, an XGS-PON ONT at 10 Gb/s and a GPON ONT at 2.5 Gb/s. All services can be served with the same single fiber at the same time.

    AIS Fibre was the first operator to offer 100% optical fiber broadband services in Thailand. With this successful trial concluded, the company is set to realize its ambition to build the most future-proofed fiber optic home Internet network in the country.

    As new applications like virtual reality gaming and hologram calls enter the mainstream, AIS Fibre will be able to offer the services with super high speeds and low latency. Since AIS Fibre will be able to run GPON, XGS-PON and 25G PON services on the same fiber line, it can offer customers a full choice of speeds up to 25 Gb/s on the existing platform and without the need for intrusive excavation and laying of new fiber.

    25G PON also gives AIS Fibre the opportunity to offer enterprises a 10G + and lower latency replacement to Point to Point (P2P) connections which can be costly and are less scalable. The operator will also be able to use the technology for 5G backhaul, which will become increasingly important as it builds more cell sites required for higher frequency 5G.

    Thanit Chaiyaboonthanit, acting managing director of Fixed Broadband at AIS, said, “AIS Fibre prioritizes innovation that will provide the best services to our customers and gives us network technology which meets users’ future needs in terms of both speed and flexibility. This partnership with Nokia to trial 25G PON technology has yielded favourable results, inspiring us to believe that we can deploy it in the future.”

    Ajay Sharma, head of Thailand and Cambodia at Nokia, noted, “With enhanced speeds provided by 25G PON, fiber networks are evolving into being able to connect everything, everywhere. They play an important role in delivering any service to any endpoint, including residences, businesses and cell sites. We are proud to have been part of this important milestone.”

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  • AIS and ZTE to Launch ‘5G A-Z Center’ in Thailand

    AIS and ZTE to Launch ‘5G A-Z Center’ in Thailand

    ZTE and AIS have jointly launched Thailand’s first 5G innovation hub, named “5G A-Z Center.” Both parties have signed an MOU of a strategic partnership to develop 5G tech and enhance the digital infrastructure construction, to bring excellent 5G experiences to Thailand, and strengthen the country’s competitiveness on 5G.

    “We are here because 5G is a technology to power the country,” said Somchai Lertsutiwong, CEO of AIS. “As the network service provider with the most frequency spectra and the best network coverage in Thailand, we prioritize sustainable innovation for the country.”

    Currently, AIS has strategically partnered with ZTE on three components. Firstly, they are upgrading Thailand’s 5G network, not only in terms of speed, but also intelligence, to make the network control itself in real-time. At the same time, both parties have jointly developed solutions for business sectors and enhanced competitive capabilities under Thailand 4.0. In addition, they have delivered a vast range of 5G services to improve the quality of people’s lives in Thailand.

    “Towards the well-being of individuals and industries, the value-based digital development provides Thailand with soil of innovation,” said Xu Ziyang, CEO of ZTE Corporation. “The center is a seed of hope, and the alphabet ranging from A to Z also represents the end-to-end coverage. We will be dedicated to satisfying the needs of people and industries and creating a 360-degree digital and intelligent world.”

    At the center, ZTE has released a series of next-generation RAN products. The AAU (Active Antenna Unit) for 5G mmWave bandwidth, first jointly developed by ZTE and AIS, can support 1.2GHz and increase data throughput by 50%. The power consumption of the next-gen sub-6GHz TDD massive MIMO has decreased by 25%, reflecting the demand of Thailand to provide excellent user experiences. Moreover, the next-generation FDD 3G/4G/5G multi-mode Massive MIMO, with its performance improved by 100% compared to the previous generation, is going to be verified in the center and will be deployed in the network of AIS.

    In terms of 5G industrial applications, ZTE and AIS, with the aim of empowering various industries and promoting digital transformation through 5G, have demonstrated several industry application scenarios at the “5G A-Z Center,” including 5G AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), 5G machine vision, 5G XR, 5G Holography and so on.

    In addition, both parties have launched the new 5G ZTE Blade A72 handset, which is expected to hit the market in October 2022, alongside other smart terminals such as 5G CPE and 5G Pocket Wifi.

    The cooperation between AIS and ZTE is a crucial step in achieving the goal of becoming a Cognitive Tech-Co by developing the 5G smart autonomous network. Moving forward, both AIS and ZTE will be committed to delivering better user experiences and bringing opportunities to the industries, thereby boosting the digital economy of Thailand.

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  • AIS To Purchase Triple T Broadband

    AIS To Purchase Triple T Broadband

    Thailand’s mobile service provider Advanced Info Service (AIS) announced that it is planning to invest 32.4 billion baht to buy out Triple T Broadband and to purchase units owned by JASIF infrastructure fund.

    In a stock exchange filing, AIS said that it intends to acquire Triple T Broadband for 19.5 billion baht and buy 19% of JASIF for 12.9 billion baht.

    The company’s chief financial officer said in the filing, “This acquisition will enhance consumer access to broader and better quality of service by improving broadband inclusion in new areas targeting the upcountry and non-city areas. This aligns with our business direction to grow the broadband business and effectively develop the nation’s fiber infrastructure. A combined fiber network will support effective sharing that reduces unnecessary fiber network duplication and its environmental impact.”

    The announcement comes as competitors True Corp. and DTAC have initiated partnership and are awaiting regulatory approval.

    AIS meanwhile said that the deal must still be approved by authorities and is likely to be finalized by the first quarter of 2023.

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  • AIS, Qualcomm and ZTE debut world’s first 5G NR-DC showcase with 2.6GHz and 26GHZ in Thailand

    AIS, Qualcomm and ZTE debut world’s first 5G NR-DC showcase with 2.6GHz and 26GHZ in Thailand

    AIS, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and ZTE have jointly announced the world’s first 5G NR-DC (new radio dual connectivity) showcase in the field with 2.6GHz and 26GHz, achieving 8.5Gbps peak downlink speed and 2.17Gbps peak uplink speed with a single mobile device. As part of the joint effort, this collaboration combines two major 5G frequency bands, sub-6 and 5G mmWave, to enhance the capabilities of Thailand’s 5G network and extend the 5G application landscape.

    The test was conducted at the AIS commercial 5G site in Korat, Thailand, using a smartphone form-factor test device powered by Snapdragon® X65 5G Modem-RF System, and ZTE’s latest mmWave AAU network infrastructure equipment.

    The NR-DC was implemented with one 100MHz carrier in 2.6GHz, and four 200MHz carriers in 26GHz. The test achieved 8.5Gbps peak downlink speed and 2.17Gbps peak uplink speed demonstrating the extraordinary capability and flexibility of NR-DC for diversified requirements from individual consumers and industry leaders.

    This NR-DC showcase drives the commercial progress of 5G mmWave into the fast lane in Thailand. AIS, Qualcomm Technologies and ZTE are together committed to accelerating and growing 5G for capability enhancement, efficiency improvement and application boundary extension.

    “AIS’s key goal is to develop the smart 5G network as a national infrastructure with investments of 30,000-35,000 MB,” Wasit Wattanasap, head of nationwide operation and support business unit at Advanced Info Service Pcl. (AIS), commented, “We are the licensee holding the most spectrum in low band, mid band and high band or mmWave, which has the outstanding feature of rapid data transmission with low latency. We have never stopped deploying innovations to level up the network, including 5G Non NSA/SA Voice over new radio (VoNR) and 5G carrier aggregation (CA), to provide increasingly improved experiences to Thai customers, which was our intention when we joined the auction for spectrum.”

    “Most recently, we have continued our collaboration with ZTE and Qualcomm Technologies, to jointly trial 5G NR-DC technology. It is a crucial step to combine different 5G spectrum, 2600 MHz (mid Band) and 26GHz (high Band) in a world-first. This enables downloads of up to 8.5 Gbps, and uplinks of up to 2.17 Gbps. This trial gave us a wider channel for the signal and extremely low latency. For instance, there could be streaming games online (cloud game), controlling driverless vehicles and commanding robots remotely in real-time. Moreover, the trial supports the development of new models of chipsets in the future, to speed up data transfer even more.”

    “This cooperation highlights how AIS is the only provider using its licensed spectrum of every waveband for development to support business growth in various dimensions. It is also continuous transformation and updates for Thai consumers. Taking this joint-trial as a good start, we are confident that AIS 5G network is ready to expand the use of mmWave technology and support growth of the business sector in various aspects,” concluded Wasit.

    “Our collaboration with AIS and ZTE proves the feasibility of deploying 5G mmWave in Thailand,” said ST Liew, vice president, Qualcomm CDMA Technologies Asia-Pacific Pte. Ltd. and president, Qualcomm South East Asia. “Qualcomm Technologies believes that 5G mmWave will be the key to unlocking the full potential of 5G. The possibility is endless and we are proud to take the first step in bringing the full benefits of 5G mmWave to the country.”

    “We’re pleased to work with AIS and Qualcomm Technologies to achieve this milestone, which lays a technology validation foundation for 5G mmWave commercialization,” said Mei Zhong Hua, senior vice president, ZTE Corporation. “With broader 5G opportunities enabled by mmWave, we will join hands with partners to continuously drive mmWave development, create ultimate experiences and usher in a wonderful 5G era.”

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  • Thailand’s AIS aims to educate people on importance of e-waste management through new campaign

    Thailand’s AIS aims to educate people on importance of e-waste management through new campaign

    The campaign encourages people to throw their electronic waste like old AC adaptors, old mobile phones, power banks, broken devices and others into e-waste bins which are equipped with IoT technology to collect and get rid of e-waste.

    The CEO of AIS, Somchai Lertsuitwong explained that the initiative is seeking to reduce carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to one million units and eradicate at least 100,000 pieces of e-waste by 2020.

    “AIS is heading towards its 30th year of operation and we take pride in being part of Thailand’s history. In the last three decades, especially in the continuous growth of the telecom industry contributing to a better quality of life among Thais nationwide,” Somchai said.

    He further added that “being No. 1 in the telecom industry is due to our dedication to the pursuit of creating innovative products and services for the benefit of society and the country.”

  • Thaicom to offer 5G satellite backhaul

    Thaicom to offer 5G satellite backhaul

    Thai satellite operator Thaicom aims to carve out a new revenue stream by offering satellite backhaul capacity to the nation’s operators for their upcoming 5G networks.

    Thaicom chief commercial officer Patompob Suwansiri said that satellite will be critical to the future of 5G networks.

    According to the executive, Thaicom is currently working with operator AIS, an affiliate of its parent company InTouch Holdings, to prepare for the transition. The company already provides transponder capacity for backhaul for AIS, as well as TrueMove and operators in several other Asian nations.

    The company is looking to replace the revenue that will be lost as a result of the exit of seven Thai digital TV channels in August.

    Thaicom’s concession to operate three of its five satellites will also expire in 2021, but the company is planning to bid to obtain the operating rights to the satellite under a public-private partnership model for after the rights expire.

    While satellite will not be able to deliver the low latencies expected for 5G networks, Patompob said around 80% of data traffic usage in the 5G era will be from applications that do not require low latency and will, therefore, be suited to satellite backhaul.

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  • NBTC finalizes terms of 700-MHz auction

    NBTC finalizes terms of 700-MHz auction

    Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission has finalized the proposed terms of next month’s 700-MHz auction, and has briefed the prime minister on the progress with the sale.

    The regulator plans to commence the sale of three slots of 700-MHz spectrum on June 19,.

    The three slots will each have a base price of 17.584 billion baht ($555.05 billion) for 10MHz of bandwidth, which can be payable in up to 10 installments.

    Last month the NBTC announced relief measures for the three owners of 900-MHz licenses by agreeing to split the license fees into 10 installments instead of the current four. But a condition of taking advantage of the larger number of installments will be purchasing one of the 700-MHz slots.

    According to the report, the three 900-MHz license holders – AIS, TrueMove and dtac – have expressed an interest in taking advantage of the relief measures, but are waiting on more terms of the 700-MHz allocation before making a decision.

    But True Move has previously indicated it does not plan to take part in the 700-MHz auction, although it has been pushing for an extension on its 900-MHz license payments.

    Proceeds from the sale will be used to compensate six digital TV broadcasters which have agreed to return their licenses to the regulator.

    A public hearing on the draft terms of the 700-MHz allocation will be held next week.

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  • Thai telcos fear excessive costs from new cable policy

    Thai telcos fear excessive costs from new cable policy

    The Telecommunications Association of Thailand (TCT), the industry body representing Thailand’s major operators, has argued that the policy will impose excessive costs on telecommunications service providers and may prove to be impractical.

    The association is urging the government to subsidize construction costs for the underground pipelines that would hold the currently overhead cables, and has suggested that operators would be willing to pay “reasonable” rental fees for this passive infrastructure.

    But as it stands, the association has stated that it is concerned that operators would be required to pay rental fees for underground pipelines that are up to 100 times higher than the current price paid for using overhead poles – nearly 20,000 baht per kilometer per month, compared to around 200 to 300 baht for per kilometer per month for overhead poles.

    Meanwhile the association has also proposed an alternative model involving using a combination of underground pipes and overhead poles that in some cases could use tubing that can group all cables together.

    This would help the government achieve its goal of helping to beautify the city while being a more affordable option to locating all cables underground.

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