The launch of the Zong and ZTE AIR RAN solution marks a groundbreaking step in Pakistan’s telecom sector. By introducing the industry’s first native-AI BBU (Baseband Unit) alongside ZTE’s intelligent big data platform VMAX, this partnership is transforming how mobile networks operate. The initiative not only boosts performance but also sets the foundation for Pakistan’s first autonomous network — a leap toward intelligent connectivity and smarter digital infrastructure.
Zong and ZTE AIR RAN Solution: Meeting the Demands of a Data-Hungry Nation
Pakistan’s digital ecosystem has rapidly expanded in recent years. According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the country has over 130 million broadband subscribers, with mobile data usage rising at double-digit rates annually. This surge, fueled by short videos, social media, and mobile gaming, has placed enormous pressure on network infrastructure.
The Zong and ZTE AIR RAN solution directly addresses these challenges. AI integration in the RAN (Radio Access Network) allows operators to dynamically optimize network resources, ensuring smooth video streaming, seamless gaming, and minimal buffering. With online services becoming central to daily life, AI-driven networks are no longer a luxury — they are essential for user satisfaction and economic growth.
How the Zong and ZTE AIR RAN Solution Works
At its core, the AIR RAN solution leverages native AI and big data analytics to transform network operations. Some of its key features include:
- Dynamic User Optimization – The system can intelligently recognize different user scenarios, such as streaming or gaming, and adjust network strategies in real time.
- Energy Efficiency – Smart scheduling powered by AI reduces RAN energy consumption, supporting greener network operations.
- Improved O&M Efficiency – AI automates fault detection, field testing, and security analysis, significantly reducing labor costs and response times.
- Performance Gains – Early field tests showed an 8.2% boost in average cell downlink throughput and a 9.1% increase in site traffic, proving tangible benefits for both users and operators.
These results demonstrate that the Zong and ZTE AIR RAN solution is not just a theoretical concept but a practical, high-performance system already delivering measurable improvements.
A Milestone Toward Pakistan’s First Autonomous Network
The introduction of the Zong and ZTE AIR RAN solution signals a shift toward autonomous networks in Pakistan. Autonomous networks, powered by AI and big data, have the ability to self-optimize, self-heal, and self-manage without requiring constant human intervention.
This approach not only improves user experience but also reduces operational costs for telecom operators. For example, AI-driven fault tracing can cut troubleshooting time by more than half, while predictive analysis can prevent outages before they occur. These capabilities are essential in a country like Pakistan, where digital transformation is accelerating across all sectors, from e-commerce and fintech to e-learning and telemedicine.
Unlocking New Business Models Through AI
The partnership is also expected to unlock new business models in Pakistan’s telecom sector. With an intelligent RAN powered by AI, operators can deliver premium services such as:
- Ultra-low-latency gaming memberships
- Enhanced video streaming packages
- Smart IoT connectivity for businesses
As Pakistan’s digital economy expands — projected to reach $60 billion by 2030, according to World Bank estimates — these AI-driven services could play a central role in shaping consumer behavior and industry growth.
Greener and Smarter Connectivity
Another standout feature of the Zong and ZTE AIR RAN solution is its contribution to sustainable technology. By reducing energy consumption through AI-optimized scheduling, the solution supports Pakistan’s push toward greener telecom operations. This aligns with global trends, where telecom operators are increasingly committed to lowering their carbon footprints while scaling capacity.
Zong and ZTE Leading Pakistan Into the Future
The collaboration between Zong and ZTE is more than a technological upgrade — it’s a strategic step that positions Pakistan at the forefront of telecom innovation. By deploying the Zong and ZTE AIR RAN solution, the country is laying the groundwork for its first autonomous network, ensuring smarter connectivity, greater efficiency, and sustainable growth.
As digital demand continues to rise, AI-powered networks like AIR RAN will become the backbone of intelligent connectivity. With this partnership, Zong and ZTE are not only setting a new industry benchmark but also shaping the future of Pakistan’s digital economy.
