Discover the future of telecom with exciting trends set to reshape the VoIP landscape by 2026. From AI-driven automation enhancing customer interactions to the integration of MVNOs and Travel eSIMs boosting global connectivity, these innovations promise to revolutionize the industry. Operators, vendors, and investors must embrace these transformative forces for growth.
Cisco’s recent integration of AI with telecommunications introduces the N9100 series switch, incorporating NVIDIA Spectrum-X technology. This innovation signals a shift in AI-ready data centers, notably enhancing VOIP infrastructure. By leveraging flexible operating models, Cisco empowers enterprises and telecom providers to scale their AI networks efficiently, addressing emerging connectivity challenges.
Ericsson, Nokia, and Fraunhofer HHI are pioneering advances in video coding for the 6G era, focusing on enhancing media experiences and mobile video efficiency. Aimed at revolutionizing digital media, their new codec provides superior compression, energy efficiency, and scalability, setting the stage for high-efficiency streaming and immersive formats.
Samsung and SoftBank have joined forces to pioneer next-generation communications technology research, focusing on 6G and AI-driven Radio Access Networks (RAN). This strategic collaboration aims to revolutionize telecom technology by leveraging Samsung’s research expertise and SoftBank’s network deployment prowess. As the industry progresses towards 6G, integrating AI in telecom systems promises enhanced efficiency, user experience, and network optimization.
Verizon is leading an initiative to establish a 6G alliance with major telecom influencers. This aims to strategically define 6G capabilities and innovative applications, avoiding chaotic development. Key players like Ericsson, Samsung, and Nokia join forces with Verizon to shape the future, ensuring 6G networks power real-time AI and smart city solutions.
The United Kingdom is set to supercharge its computing capabilities with a target of 6 gigawatts of AI-capable data center capacity by 2030. The ambitious Compute Roadmap aims to redefine current infrastructures, heavily focused on general workloads, to support cutting-edge AI applications.
Softbank and Nokia are trialing 6G in Tokyo using the 7GHz spectrum, marking a first for Japan. The tests aim to boost bandwidth and urban coverage. Meanwhile, Softbank is also advancing in AI, planning major investments in artificial super intelligence and U.S. data centers.
The UK government and NVIDIA have partnered to boost AI research in UK universities. Through new programs and a dedicated AI Technology Center, the collaboration aims to advance AI and 6G innovation, provide researchers with critical tools.
Twelve major European mobile operators urge regulators to allocate the upper 6GHz band for mobile use, warning that delays could hinder Europe’s 6G future. They argue the spectrum is vital for innovation and say Wi-Fi already has enough capacity, stressing the need to secure Europe’s technological edge.
Digital Catapult joins a major Horizon Europe-backed 6G initiative to advance smarter, faster, and sustainable networks. Collaborating with global leaders like Samsung and Nokia, the project explores AI integration and Open RAN technologies.


