Toward a people-centered digital world

As we look to the future, it's clear that artificial intelligence will play a central role in shaping our lives and driving economic growth. McKinsey and Company, a global management consulting firm, estimates that AI could generate up to $680 billion for the telecom sector over the next 15 to 20 years, and a recent GSMA Intelligence research indicates that 81 percent of surveyed operators are testing generative AI solutions.

Arguably the most disruptive technology since the dawn of the internet, AI holds the promise of significantly transforming the world, with both opportunities and risks. That's why the theme of this year's World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, "Embracing a People-Centered and AI-for-Good Digital Future — Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace", is critical. The summit will be held from Nov 19 to 22.

Taking a sustainable and ethical approach toward the technology is crucial given understandable concerns around bias and privacy issues, with AI advancing rapidly across sectors like healthcare, education and environment. The summit provides an essential platform for discussions around the importance of setting a foundation of trust with responsible AI.

With these considerations in mind, GSMA, a nonprofit industry organization headquartered in London that represents the interests of mobile network operators worldwide, created the Responsible AI Maturity Roadmap. The roadmap aims to guide the telecom sector on the path to adopting AI ethically, prioritizing fairness, transparency and inclusivity, so that operators can use AI responsibly and build public trust while unleashing innovation.

China has emerged as a major player in AI, thanks to big investments, strong government support and a booming tech landscape. China's New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan, unveiled by the State Council in 2017, aims to position the country at the forefront of AI innovation by 2030, focusing on areas like smart cities and healthcare.

Companies like China Mobile, China Telecom and China Unicom are making huge strides in AI research and applications, investing significantly in computing and other latest technologies. These advancements are transforming public services, supply chains and healthcare delivery.

China's collaborative approach between universities and businesses is fostering a dynamic environment for AI innovation, resulting in breakthroughs with global implications.

At the WIC Wuzhen Summit, regulators and experts from China and around the world are expected to discuss how AI and digital tools can enhance productivity and connect markets. Initiatives should be put in place to help enterprises adopt advanced digital tools, paving the way for an inclusive, people-centered digital economy that can support all businesses, and creating a more connected world, where digital innovation translates into real economic growth and opportunity.

AI large language models offer substantial potential for Chinese mobile operators, transforming sectors such as government, customer and healthcare services. Operators can drive efficiencies by enhancing personalization of customer services and optimizing government services with data-driven insights. AI is not only enhancing user experience but also creating new revenue streams, positioning mobile operators as key players in this intelligent transformation.

For example, in manufacturing, AI combined with 5G improves safety management, while in healthcare, it enables faster diagnostics. Moreover, education and tourism stand to benefit as well, with personalized learning and smart visitor experiences.

China's rapid development in AI highlights the potential impact of well-integrated innovation on communities. From urban planning to rural health, AI solutions are making a meaningful difference.

The path to a people-centered digital future requires cooperation across borders and sectors, and addressing challenges like the digital divide. Responsible AI requires collective action.

The author is CEO of GSMA Limited, a telecom industry group. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.