SK Telecom and Nokia have partnered to deploy fibre sensing technology, an advanced method for detecting environmental changes that could affect optical cables in fixed networks.
The collaboration is designed to strengthen network safety and reduce the risk of damage by monitoring earthquakes, extreme weather, and construction activity near fixed-network infrastructure.
Using machine learning to process and analyse data from commercial networks, the partners plan to introduce fibre sensing in South Korea before the end of the year. If the initial rollout succeeds, SK Telecom intends to apply the system across its national fixed network. The goal is to establish a proactive response capability that reduces line failures caused by nearby construction and limits unexpected service interruptions.
Ryu Jeong-hwan, head of infrastructure strategy technology at SK Telecom, said the partnership will accelerate the adoption of diverse new AI technologies and become a core component of the company’s AI strategy. John Harrington, president of Nokia Asia Pacific, noted that Nokia is pleased its sensing solutions will be integrated into AI-enabled networks through the agreement.
The primary objective of the partnership is to detect and predict most network problems before they occur, improving service reliability. Fibre sensing offers a way to increase network resilience and operational efficiency by providing continuous, automated environmental monitoring along fibre routes.
This initiative builds on an existing relationship between SK Telecom and Nokia. Recently the two companies joined other industry players to form a quantum alliance aimed at advancing the quantum ecosystem. Members include Xgate, KCS, IDQ Korea, SOS Lab, and Wooriro, alongside SK Telecom and Nokia. The alliance is focused on exploring joint investment opportunities and creating a consultative body to oversee its activities.
The quantum alliance’s key objectives are:
- Exploring joint business opportunities in quantum technology.
- Encouraging investment across companies involved in quantum research and development.
- Establishing a consultative body to guide and monitor the alliance’s progress.
The SK Telecom–Nokia fibre sensing partnership marks a meaningful advance in network management and safety. By combining telecommunications expertise with sensing and AI capabilities, the two firms aim to create more intelligent, responsive, and reliable network infrastructures that adapt to environmental risks and minimise service disruption.
As the telecommunications industry evolves, collaborations of this kind will be important in shaping future network technologies and ensuring continuous, reliable service for both consumers and businesses.
(Photo by Shefali Lincoln)
See also: Singtel and SK Telecom forge partnership to pioneer 6G development
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