AI computing moves into communications networks: how does the Internet of Things connect the physical world?
Nvidia is driving accelerated computing into telecom operators’ networks, with AI-RAN already used for a commercial call and trials underway; the Internet of Things supports applications such as robotics through sensing, connectivity and data.
Original source：财联社First published on Unhidea：Original source date：
Key takeaway
The Internet of Things provides sensing and connectivity for physical AI. As communications networks gain nearby AI computing capacity, they may also take on data-processing tasks; products from relevant equipment and module companies cover some parts of these applications.
Why is the Internet of Things a foundation for physical AI?
The Internet of Things provides AI with sensing, connectivity and data from real-world environments, while AI strengthens the Internet of Things’ ability to understand information, reason and make decisions. Together, they are extending into applications such as robots, autonomous systems and smart devices.
This combination allows AI to acquire and process information from the physical environment, while communications networks provide connectivity and transmission.
What changes when communications networks gain AI computing capacity?
Nvidia is driving accelerated computing from data centers into communications networks. AI-RAN enables base stations and nearby nodes to process AI tasks locally while transmitting signals.
Nvidia says major telecommunications operators worldwide are extending its accelerated computing technology into communications networks to provide services closer to users and businesses, improve the wireless experience and automate network operations and maintenance.
T-Mobile has completed an AI-RAN call on a commercial network; Deutsche Telekom, BT and Elisa have announced trials. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang believes telecom base stations could develop into a distributed AI network.
What capabilities can 6G add to this direction?
Guotai Haitong Securities believes 6G will drive mobile communications to evolve from a connectivity network into a platform combining communications, sensing, computing power and intelligence, adding capabilities such as sensing, artificial intelligence and high-precision positioning to support scenarios including AI, the low-altitude economy and digital twins.
The firm expects candidate solutions to be evaluated and standards to be developed intensively during 2027–2029, with commercial deployment expected to begin around 2030. Subsequent priorities for China include improving patent quality, achieving domestic control of key components and gaining a stronger voice in setting rules.
What products do the relevant companies offer?
Quectel offers cellular, smart, positioning and satellite communications modules, as well as AI and industrial intelligence solutions. Its standard satellite IoT modules cover three technical approaches: 3GPP NTN, proprietary protocols and direct satellite-to-cellular connectivity.
Tongyu Communication offers products including spaceborne satellite communications antennas, ground station equipment and antennas, and application terminals. It is also developing satellite, ground and terminal application scenarios for satellite internet as 5G upgrades to 6G.
