Core Insights - The mobile core network (MCN) market experienced a year-on-year growth of 19% in Q2, with the 5G segment growing by 31% and the voice core segment by 18% [2] - The growth of 5G standalone (5G SA) networks is driven by an increase in the number of users and mobile network operators (MNOs) launching more 5G SA services, with 71 MNOs confirmed to have launched 5G SA services for consumers [2][5] - The adoption of new technologies such as NR RedCap and dynamic network slicing is expected to enhance the performance and reduce costs for IoT devices connected to 5G networks [2][8] Market Growth and Projections - The growth rate for the MCN market is projected to double to 10% by 2025 due to strong performance in the first two quarters of the year [2] - Despite only 10% of MNOs having launched 5G SA, the core space is accelerating due to the low penetration rate of 5G SA users, with only 14% of mobile users expected to have 5G SA services by the end of 2024 [5] - The revenue for 5G MCN is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2024 to 2029 [7] Technological Advancements - The introduction of NR RedCap is anticipated to lower costs and improve performance for IoT devices, with new 5G smartwatches expected to launch soon [8] - Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is also seeing significant growth, with a 32% year-on-year increase in Q2 2025 and an expected 44% growth for the year [11] - The integration of new voice technologies such as VoNR with cloud-native IMS Core is enhancing user experience and driving growth in voice core and 5G packet core markets [9] Industry Trends - MNOs are increasingly recognizing the potential of cloud-native networks, leading to upgrades in voice core systems, which is contributing to market growth [2][9] - The trend of migrating 5G core workloads to public cloud options is re-emerging, allowing MNOs to evaluate the best solutions for their markets [10] - The use of artificial intelligence in network operations is expected to drive demand for more core capacity as MNOs offer advanced AI tools to customers [9][10]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a significant wave of innovation across various sectors, highlighting both opportunities and challenges that arise from this technological evolution [1][12]. Group 1: Artificial Intelligence Developments - AI is transitioning from being "ubiquitous" to "omnipotent," with advancements in large language models (LLMs) and AI agents, indicating a shift towards more practical and responsible applications [1][2]. - The research focus on LLMs remains high, with reports indicating a desire for AI to not only understand language but also to interpret images and sound, enhancing its logical reasoning and information processing capabilities [2]. - AI agents and embodied AI are emerging, suggesting that AI is moving beyond the digital realm to interact with the physical world, which is a crucial step towards achieving general artificial intelligence (AGI) [3]. Group 2: AI Applications Across Industries - AI is penetrating various industries, with significant potential in research, education, healthcare, and biotechnology, as evidenced by reports on AI's role in accelerating scientific discovery and transforming educational models [4]. - In the industrial and manufacturing sectors, AI is facilitating a transition towards smarter and more flexible operations, as highlighted in the 2025 Industrial Large Model White Paper [4]. - The military and defense sectors are increasingly focusing on AI applications, reflecting a competitive landscape among major powers in military intelligence [4]. Group 3: Energy Revolution - The energy sector is undergoing a transformation with a focus on renewable energy expansion and optimization, indicating a systemic approach to energy development [7]. - Reports emphasize the importance of energy diversification and security, highlighting the roles of nuclear energy and biofuels alongside renewable sources [7]. - The integration of AI into energy systems is enhancing management and operational efficiency, as seen in various reports on smart energy technologies [7]. Group 4: Robotics and Automation - The rise of humanoid robots is gaining attention, with multiple reports indicating optimism about their potential and the need for a comprehensive ecosystem [8]. - Specialized robots are being increasingly utilized in fields such as surgery and agriculture, showcasing the expanding applications of robotics [8]. - Drone technology is evolving, with applications in agriculture and military sectors, indicating its significance in future interconnected networks [8]. Group 5: Underlying Technologies - The semiconductor industry is crucial in the global tech competition, with reports highlighting the urgency for countries to reshape their semiconductor landscapes [9]. - Quantum computing is moving from theoretical exploration to practical applications, with increasing investments and patent activities indicating its potential [9]. - Connectivity technologies are advancing, with the evolution from 5G to 5G-A and the integration of AI, which is essential for building a faster and smarter digital infrastructure [9]. Group 6: Digital Society and Governance - The rise of digital society necessitates a reevaluation of security and trust, with reports indicating growing concerns over cybersecurity and data protection [11]. - The impact of AI on the workforce is significant, with a focus on human-machine collaboration and the importance of lifelong learning and skill updates [11]. - The dual-edged nature of technology highlights the need for proactive governance and responsible innovation to address emerging challenges [12].