Netcracker, Virgin Media O2, and NEC Showcase AI-Driven Telco Transformation
Event summary
- Netcracker, Virgin Media O2, and NEC are co-presenting at the TM Forum Tour in Tokyo on January 28, 2026.
- Eva Slattery (Virgin Media O2) will discuss Netcracker’s role in the operator’s transformation.
- Akio Yamada (NEC) will detail how NEC and Netcracker are operationalizing AI for telco growth.
- A panel featuring Rakuten Mobile will focus on leveraging networks and AI for new revenue streams.
The big picture
Telcos are increasingly reliant on AI and automation to navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape and unlock new revenue streams. This event highlights a growing trend of telcos partnering with specialized technology providers like Netcracker to accelerate their digital transformation, moving beyond traditional connectivity services. The involvement of NEC underscores the importance of broader technology ecosystems in driving telco innovation, particularly in the context of 5G monetization and vertical industry expansion.
What we're watching
- Execution Risk
- The success of Netcracker’s AI solutions hinges on Virgin Media O2 and Rakuten Mobile’s ability to integrate and scale these technologies effectively, a process that often encounters unforeseen operational hurdles.
- Competitive Landscape
- The increased focus on AI-driven services will likely intensify competition among telco infrastructure providers, potentially pressuring Netcracker's margins and requiring continuous innovation.
- Partner Alignment
- NEC’s role as both parent company and strategic partner to Netcracker creates a complex dynamic; the alignment of these entities’ objectives will be crucial for sustained success and avoiding conflicts of interest.
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