NVIDIA and SoftBank Revolutionize Telecom with World's First AI-5G Network Trial
1min read NVIDIA and SoftBank have embarked on a pioneering venture to trial the world's first artificial intelligence (AI) and 5G telecommunications network, announced at the NVIDIA AI summit in Tokyo. This collaboration between NVIDIA, a leader in AI and computing, and SoftBank, a major telecommunications entity, signals a substantial step forward in advancing AI and telecommunications integration, promising lucrative opportunities in AI revenues for global telecom providers.
At the heart of this breakthrough is NVIDIA's innovative Blackwell chip design, which SoftBank has been first to integrate into its AI-supercomputing initiatives. The partnership aims to create generative AI models, underscoring the significance of Blackwell chips in enhancing AI capabilities globally. SoftBank's telecom division is poised to construct Japan's most formidable AI supercomputer, using NVIDIA's DGX B200 line. These machines marry computing processors with AI-specific accelerator chips, a combination that sets new industry standards.
The AI and 5G network trial, known as the AI Radio Access Network (AI-RAN), offers the ability to handle simultaneous AI and 5G workloads. This technological leap is especially advantageous for applications such as remote robotic operations and autonomous vehicle support. CEO Jensen Huang's vision for AI-RAN includes powering diverse services while minimizing power consumption, providing an AI lattice across Japan.
SoftBank's telecom subsidiary plans to employ NVIDIA's computing devices across its cellular network, facilitating AI services that traditional equipment struggles to support. The specialized chips are designed to enhance mobile data flow, catering to the increasing data demands spurred by cutting-edge AI services. The collaboration reflects Japan's growing appetite for AI advancements as the country seeks to keep pace with global innovation trends.
NVIDIA's chips, desired by the world's tech giants, are instrumental in the formation and operation of AI models, benefiting from the exceptional capabilities of accelerator chips in processing vast data volumes. This development positions SoftBank favorably with priority access to the Blackwell line amid noted production delays, as customers eagerly await the rollout of these powerful new chips.