GSMA and Partners Launch AI Challenges to Enhance Telecom Network Automation and Standards

Image: GSMA · Source

GSMA, ETSI, IEEE, and ITU have launched competitions aimed at advancing AI systems to tackle radio network engineering challenges and improve adherence to telecom standards.

On November 10, 2026, GSMA, in collaboration with ETSI, the IEEE, and ITU, announced the launch of two new AI challenge competitions focused on advancing artificial intelligence applications within the telecommunications sector. These challenges invite telecom operators, AI researchers, developers, and startups to participate in developing innovative AI systems that specifically address complex radio network engineering problems. The core goal is to create AI solutions that not only improve network automation but also provide reliable, standards-based answers consistent with established telecom protocols.

This initiative falls under the GSMA’s Open Telco AI program, which seeks to foster collaboration between the telecommunications industry and AI experts to accelerate the digital transformation of networks. By encouraging the development of AI tools that can interpret and apply telecom standards accurately, participants can help streamline network operations and improve service reliability.

The competitions aim to push the boundaries of how AI can be integrated into managing and optimizing radio networks, which are critical components of modern mobile communication infrastructures. Entrants will develop AI methodologies capable of solving real-world network engineering challenges while adhering to stringent industry standards.

This cross-industry partnership highlights the increasing importance of AI in managing complex telecom environments and aligns with ongoing efforts to automate network functions for greater efficiency. The precise details of the challenge themes, submission guidelines, and evaluation metrics are being provided by the organizers to ensure broad participation and innovation.

By focusing on standard-compliant AI solutions, these competitions will potentially accelerate the deployment of automated network management technologies, ultimately benefiting operators and consumers through enhanced network performance and reliability. The GSMA and its partners have positioned this initiative as a strategic step toward the future of AI-powered telecommunications.

Release Status: upcoming Release Date: null Product Name: Open Telco AI Challenges