AI-Native Networks and 6G to Shape Future Telecom
Global leaders at IMC 2026 discuss how AI-native networks and 6G will redefine digital infrastructure, connectivity, and the future of the telecom sector.
The global telecommunications landscape is on the brink of a massive transformation, moving from simple connectivity to the era of intelligent, self-sustaining systems. At the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026, industry titans and technology leaders gathered to outline a future where AI-native networks and 6G technology serve as the backbone of the global digital economy.
The discussion centered on a fundamental shift: the industry is no longer just about connecting people; it is about building programmable, secure, and highly intelligent infrastructures that can think and adapt in real-time.
The Shift from Connectivity to Intelligence
As India continues its rapid ascent in the digital space, the focus is pivoting toward more sophisticated network architectures. Andres Vicente, Ericsson’s CEO for South-East Asia, Oceania, and India, noted that India's aggressive 5G adoption has laid the groundwork for this next leap. He emphasized that the transition to 5G Standalone (SA) is critical, as it will allow networks to become more programmable, paving the way for AI-powered use cases and the eventual arrival of 6G.
Vivek Badrinath, Director General of GSMA, reinforced this sentiment by stating that the industry's mission has evolved. The goal is no longer just to connect a billion people, but to empower them with what they can actually achieve using that digital infrastructure. According to Badrinath, "AI will be a major part of what comes next," requiring a massive scale-up in computing power, sophisticated models, data management, and specialized skills.
AI as the New User Interface and Infrastructure
The integration of Artificial Intelligence is expected to change how humans interact with technology. Etienne Chaponniere, Qualcomm ISAG Chair, suggested a radical shift where AI could become the primary user interface. As devices become more capable of understanding their surroundings and processing information locally, the need to constantly transmit data back to central networks will decrease.
This move toward "on-device processing" will have profound implications for how future networks are designed and standardized. Furthermore, Giacomo Robustelli, TIM Head of European Affairs and Economic Studies, described AI as an "infrastructure revolution." He pointed out that every new AI application creates a ripple effect, driving up the demand for connectivity, storage, computing, and heightened security measures.
India's Mission Mode for 6G
India is not just a consumer in this revolution but a key player in shaping global standards. N.G. Subramaniam, Chairman of the Bharat 6G Alliance, highlighted that 6G will transcend mere speed increases. Instead, it will focus on making networks inherently intelligent, where communication protocols and AI evolve in tandem.
Subramaniam noted that India is pursuing 6G development in "mission mode," backed by significant government support and deep industry involvement in research and innovation. This proactive stance aims to position the country at the forefront of the next generation of wireless technology.
Building a Domestic Manufacturing Powerhouse
While the technological roadmap is clear, the focus on manufacturing and intellectual property remains a priority for India's long-term success. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO of C-DOT, urged the domestic telecom manufacturing ecosystem to evolve. He argued that the industry must move beyond simple production and focus on high-value creation, including:
- Design and Intellectual Property: Moving from assembly to original creation.
- Domestically Developed Equipment: Reducing reliance on foreign hardware.
- Security and Quality: Increasing investment in cybersecurity and AI-driven safety protocols.