Vodafone and Swedish network equipment provider Ericsson have successfully tested new AI services directly within the mobile network. In a joint trial setup, phone calls were translated in real time between two languages and distracting background noise was filtered out. The crucial advantage for users: these features require neither dedicated smartphones nor additional apps, as all processing takes place entirely across the network infrastructure.
Connecting Core Networks and AI Systems
For the laboratory test, the two companies linked an application server and an AI platform from Vodafone with an AI gateway and core network components from Ericsson. Application programming interfaces (APIs)—standardized interfaces for data exchange between software components—ensure that telecommunications systems and AI platforms communicate directly with one another during an ongoing phone call.
As part of the trial, the partners evaluated two core voice services: live translation between two languages during a call and real-time noise cancellation. The latter is designed to ensure callers remain clearly intelligible even in acoustically challenging environments, such as noisy construction sites, busy streets, or on public transit.
Network-Level Features Instead of Expensive Devices
Until now, many AI translation features have required either modern high-end smartphones with dedicated processing units or separately installed apps used by both participants. By offering such capabilities at the network level, mobile operators could introduce future innovations to all customers on their network—regardless of the device being used. In addition, this allows operators to manage service quality for voice calls more precisely.
The trial is part of the joint project “Core Network of the Future,” in which Vodafone and Ericsson are exploring new approaches to intelligent communication networks. Among other goals, the initiative aims to determine how AI services can be deeply embedded into existing network architectures.
Real-World Deployment and Timeline Still Open
For consumers and businesses, the successful lab trial provides an initial glimpse into future convenience features for voice calling. Neither company has commented on how close the trial is to a scalable solution ready for prompt rollout. Following successful evaluation, however, Vodafone could gradually introduce such capabilities for both consumer and enterprise customers.
Quellen: Computerbase.de/news
