Gartner forecasts a huge 20.4% increase in public cloud services expenditure by 2024, hitting an astounding $679 billion. This surge in spending could be primarily driven by business needs and innovative technologies like generative AI. Interestingly, all cloud market segments Gartner monitors are set to grow, with Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) leading the pack at 26.6%. That said, as the cloud market evolves in response to business outcomes, non-technical issues such as cost, privacy, and sustainability are crucial considerations for an effective GenAI deployment.
Telecom operators are transforming into key players in AI services, appealing to enterprises seeking seamless AI solutions. Historically focused on connectivity, telcos are now diversifying with AI infrastructure and tools. This shift, prompted by corporate demand, offers substantial growth potential as traditional revenue streams decline. Successful operators harness AI infrastructure, collaborating with platform developers to offer customized solutions and productivity tools. Their strategic advantage includes expansive networks and data centers, enabling competitive pricing and data sovereignty. However, to capitalize effectively, they need to overcome internal challenges and navigate competition from hyperscale cloud providers like AWS and Google Cloud.
AWS and Saudi AI firm HUMAIN are launching a $5 billion initiative to develop an AI Zone in Saudi Arabia. The project supports Vision 2030, boosts innovation across key sectors, and includes training for 100,000 Saudis. By 2030, AI could add $130 billion to the economy.
Cerillion 25.1 transforms telecom operations with its advanced Promotions Engine and AI-powered assistants, enabling personalized, real time campaigns and intuitive customer experiences. Designed for agility and ease, the suite empowers communications providers to boost engagement, streamline sales, and maximize revenue without heavy technical effort.
Comcast is expanding its Janus initiative, transforming network architecture through virtualization and AI, impacting 64 million locations. In collaboration with DriveNets, this move enhances network management, reduces costs, and improves service flexibility.
O2 is combating scam calls with AI-powered detection, flagging 150 million suspicious calls since partnering with Hiya. Common scams involve fraudsters posing as HMRC, Amazon, or banks. AI-driven efforts have reduced answered spam calls by 42%
Cohesity has completed its acquisition of Veritas’ enterprise data protection business, solidifying its position as a global leader in data security. With over 12,000 customers, including 85 Fortune 100 companies, the move boosts Cohesity’s revenue to $1.7 billion and strengthens its AI-powered, multi-cloud data protection solutions.
Gartner predicts AI data centers may hit operational limits by 2027 due to power shortages, driven by surging AI and GenAI energy demands. As electricity needs rise, organizations must adapt by securing long-term power contracts and exploring efficient alternatives.
NetApp, renowned for intelligent data infrastructure, partners with NVIDIA to enhance generative AI. This synergy accelerates agentic AI development by integrating NVIDIA’s AI software and NetApp’s infrastructure. The unified NetApp ONTAP system manages exabytes of data, enabling rapid AI-powered insights, discovery, and governance across cloud and on-premises environments.
Vodafone has expanded its strategic partnership with Microsoft, integrating Microsoft 365 Copilot AI across 68,000 employees to boost productivity and digital efficiency. Incorporating generative AI into various business areas will streamline tasks, allowing employees to focus on more creative endeavors.


