AI-Native Telcos: Verizon & Telecom Argentina Drive 6G Shift
The telecommunications industry is undergoing a revolutionary change as leading telcos embed AI deeply into their network infrastructure, evolving towards truly AI-native networks.
The transformation integrates intelligence from the core of the network to the edge, enabling autonomous, optimised and adaptable connectivity that meets the demands of next-generation services.
Verizon’s AI-driven network transformation
Verizon leads the charge with its multi-pronged AI strategy, designed to turn its nationwide infrastructure into a distributed computing platform essential for the AI era.
Kyle Malady, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Verizon Business Group, highlights how the carrier’s AI Connect suite supports enterprises running resource-intensive AI workloads across multi-cloud environments and edge nodes.
By allowing customers to program network resources dynamically, Verizon optimises AI application performance in real time.
Kyle says: “Customers want to control where and when AI workloads are running and to that we are building new capabilities to give users more insight and control via new tools... Verizon’s ability to be a foundational player in the AI ecosystem is clear.”
Verizon leverages AI-powered automation extensively to optimise 5G networks.
Machine learning algorithms dynamically manage spectrum allocation to meet variable demand and reduce congestion, enabling improved speeds, lower latency and increased reliability.
Furthermore, AI predicts network issues before they impact customers and enhances energy efficiency by putting infrastructure into low-power modes during off-peak times. It enables network slicing, creating virtual networks tailored to different use cases, such as dedicated high-performance slices for enterprises alongside standard consumer connectivity.
AI integration not only boosts network performance but also improves cybersecurity by spotting and reacting to threats in real time.
Verizon’s investments in AI have established it as a leader in both operational excellence and end-customer experience.
Evolving towards fully AI-native networks
The future vision for telecom, notably in 6G, positions AI as a native element embedded directly within the network fabric rather than an added application layer.
The approach facilitates advanced capabilities such as real-time radio propagation modelling, predictive beam management, end-to-end automation, proactive cybersecurity and energy optimisation.
Recent research showcased at technical forums like the IEEE International Conference on Communications (ICC) 2025 demonstrates pioneering AI applications such as neuromorphic receivers and machine learning, driven beam steering, which promise fully autonomous, self-optimising networks.
Organisational readiness and knowledge development
Industry leaders highlight the need not only for technology investment but for developing AI expertise internally.
Miguel Fernandez, CTO of Telecom Argentina, observes: “A structured program is needed to standardise AI knowledge across the organisation, fostering curiosity and readiness for technological evolution.”
The development ensures telecom operators align human capital with AI advancements to unlock the potential of AI-native networks fully.
Unlocking significant economic value with responsible AI
Consultants highlight AI’s transformative economic potential. McKinsey & Company estimates that telecom companies could unlock up to US$250bn in value by 2040 through responsible AI adoption.
It includes automation-driven cost savings, network optimisation and enhanced customer service. Achieving the potential means responsible deployment practices addressing transparency, bias and data governance to mitigate risks and comply with evolving regulations.
Strategic implications for telcos
Adopting AI natively from the core to the edge transitions telcos from traditional network providers into intelligent service platforms.
The evolution demands new business models, talent strategies and partnerships, particularly as Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) integrate into unified 6G architectures, blurring lines between terrestrial and satellite operators.
