Report: Scaling for Success: How Telcos are Seizing (Gen)AI Opportunities in Asia Pacific

As more companies across a vast swathe of industries adopt AI, telcos around the world are certainly not resting idle. In fact, most have been early adopters of AI-powered models to support their businesses and have deployed predictive AI and machine learning initiatives such as churn prevention programs and “next best offer” upselling for well over a decade now.

The latest technologies advancements, such as machine learning, natural language processing, GenAI, and advanced data analytics, propelled by vast increase in GPU power performance over the past year and substantial investments in key enablers such as talent, storage, and computing resources, are giving a renewed boost to such initiatives and fostering an environment that is ripe for much wider AI adoption.

However, significant questions remain regarding the return on investment of certain initiatives and their scalability, particularly in the context of single-market deployments, and especially in smaller markets. Additionally, some Asia Pacific (APAC) telcos are facing unique challenges because of local market specificities, such as unique local languages and scripts, small market size, and lack of available talent.

In this paper, a collaboration between Kearney and Bridge Alliance, we shed light on how APAC telcos are grappling with these challenges, drawing from Kearney’s Artificial Intelligence Assessment (AIA) survey and from detailed discussions with more than 10 APAC telcos—all Bridge Alliance member operators (BMOs). The paper focuses on what it will take to generate impact from AI with the telco organization.

The stage is set for AI to uplift the way telcos are operating in APAC, helping to transform how they use AI at scale and creating opportunities for immense economic value in the coming years. Telcos that swiftly implement the approaches outlined in this paper can optimize their market position and cement their leadership position within the dynamic AI ecosystem.

This white paper is a collaboration between Bridge Alliance and Kearney. The insights provided are based on input from selected Bridge Alliance member operators.