As telecom operators invest billions in next-generation networks, many are racing to deploy AI to cut costs and unlock new revenue. But beneath the push for automation and smarter infrastructure lies the deeper challenge of rethinking how connectivity itself should be trusted. In this episode of The AI Forecast, Mike O’Sullivan, Head of Member Solutions at TM Forum, joins host Paul Muller to explore how autonomous networks could reshape customer experience and retention. Mike breaks down the financial pressure facing the industry from soaring network build costs, costly legacy systems, and flat revenues, and why cost reduction is only the first step in telecom’s AI journey. Drawing on decades in the industry, Mike paints a clear picture: reactive telecom is out and self-optimizing, AI-powered networks are in. The future of telecom is adaptive and intelligent, and it depends on turning vast amounts of data into immediate, informed action. If you enjoyed this conversation, check out Episode 56: When AI Moves Fast, Security Can’t Lag Behind with Jessica Hammond for more on real-time decisioning and regulated industry AI. Stay in touch with Mike:  Mike O’Sullivan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-o-sullivan-35845b/ +++ Follow and subscribe to The AI Forecast for more conversations with the innovators shaping the future of enterprise AI.

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