Global MBBF 2024: Turkey hosts the rise of 5.5G and AI at the forefront of the mobile AI era

The 15th Global Mobile Broadband Forum (MBBF 2024) in Istanbul has brought together top industry leaders to explore the transformative potential of 5.5G and artificial intelligence (AI). Under the theme “5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era,” this year’s forum focuses on the rapid convergence of 5.5G infrastructure and AI-powered applications. More than 1,000 participants, including mobile network carriers, ecosystem innovators, and technology leaders, gathered to share insights on how these advances will impact industries and individuals.

Dr. Ömer Fatih Sayan, Türkiye’s Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, gave the event a powerful message on the nation’s commitment to innovation. “AI is ushering in a new era of mobile technology, transforming human-machine interaction in ways that will benefit everyone,” said Dr. Sayan. He emphasized Turkey’s aim to lead in adopting cutting-edge technologies, stating, “Turkey is determined to be at the forefront of delivering innovative products powered by new technologies.”

Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman, echoed this sentiment in his keynote.  “In the future, AI will change everything. Everyone will be able to use it, anytime and anywhere,” said Hu, underscoring the industry’s role in bringing AI to the masses. He emphasized how 2024 is a landmark year, with the commercial rollout of 5.5G setting the stage for the Mobile AI era.

In addition, GSMA Chief Technology Officer Alex Sinclair highlighted the remarkable evolution of mobile technology. “In 1973, we made the first mobile call. By 1992, the first GSM call was made, and in 2023, we reached 5.6 billion unique connections,” he said. Sinclair described 5G as a game-changer for connectivity, with even faster growth on the horizon and increased efficiency and performance across industries. “5G, together with AI, will fuel unparalleled growth, as AI depends on robust 5G infrastructure to realize its full potential,” he added.

The event also spotlighted Türkiye’s advancements toward the Mobile AI era, particularly the country’s efforts to accelerate 5G adoption. Engin Aksoy, CEO of Vodafone Türkiye, discussed the nation’s vision for digital transformation and Vodafone’s leadership role in advancing 5G. “5G will drive significant growth in mobile traffic and bring about new business models. It is expected to contribute over 930 USD billion to the global economy by 2030,” he said. 

Aksoy highlighted Vodafone’s recent innovations in Türkiye, including a groundbreaking partnership with the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in Antalya, where Vodafone’s advanced 5G network enabled real-time transmission of match statistics to broadcasters worldwide. “Our digitalization vision for Türkiye spans across citizens, companies, and the government, investing in digital infrastructure to ensure ubiquitous, high-capacity connectivity,” said Aksoy.

Forum attendees explored various 5.5G and AI applications, including AI-powered glasses, intelligent vehicle cockpits, digital human interaction, and real-time translation for mobile calls. With continuous 5.5G coverage throughout the forum’s venues, participants experienced the reliability and capabilities of next-generation networks in real-time.

As the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 continues, it reflects the shared commitment of telecom operators, technology leaders, and government officials to advance 5.5G and AI, enabling a future of intelligent, high-speed, and accessible connectivity for all. With Türkiye hosting this year’s milestone event, the country is poised to take a leading role in the ongoing evolution of mobile technology.