Digital call for smart networks

As 4G technology grows and adoption increases, there will be a convergence of technologies, which the operators need to expertly deal with

The way we live is about to change if telecom and tech companies are to be believed. This, they say, opens up many opportunities for telecom operators, but their challenge would be to ensure the network is omnipresent and agile.

India is transforming by going digital and the enablers would be platforms, services and applications, said Udit Bajpayi, chief technology officer and senior vice-president of Reliance Jio at a conference on LTE (long-term evolution) innovation in Mumbai. But this isn’t easy, as different kinds of legacy networks exist alongside smart networks.

As 4G technology grows and adoption increases, there will be a convergence of technologies. Despite multiple technologies, the back haul will support the growth of the ecosystem. The future is not just about 4G, but smart cities, smart networks and smart services, he added.

Pankaj Kitchlu of Juniper Networks called this the golden age for India as telecom operators look at a host of services to keep the customer engaged. This trend is playing out as operators look at integrating content and services with their business.

There are 2G, 3G and 4G networks but nobody has any idea on how to monetise them. One way to achieve economies of scale would need bringing all these together. Aggregation of carriers is a big theme, claim experts. Combining multiple interfaces and unification will help make better networks. Over time operators and their networks will have to have an ability to cater to multiple screens.