India Mobile Congress 2024: A Glimpse into the Future of Technology

The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, held from October 15 to 18 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, has emerged as a pivotal platform for global leaders, visionaries, and innovators to converge and discuss the future of telecommunications, media, and technology. This year marks the 8th edition of the event, which is jointly organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). With over 400 exhibitors, approximately 900 startups, and participation from more than 120 countries, IMC 2024 is the largest telecom, media, and technology forum in Asia.

A Showcase of Innovation

The IMC 2024 is not just a gathering; it is a showcase of innovation and technological advancements. Attendees can explore over 900 technology use case scenarios and participate in more than 100 sessions featuring over 600 global and Indian speakers. This year’s event highlights the rapid evolution of technology and its implications for society, particularly in the realm of 5G and artificial intelligence (AI).

Mats Granryd, Director General of the GSMA, emphasized India’s remarkable progress in the rollout of 5G technology, stating, "India is doing absolutely phenomenal… with India leading in 5G downloads." His remarks underscore the significance of 5G as a transformative force in the telecommunications landscape, enabling faster connectivity and a plethora of new applications.

The Importance of Cybersecurity

As the telecommunications landscape evolves, so do the challenges associated with it. Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, Director General of COAI, highlighted the critical role of cybersecurity in the age of 5G. He noted that cybersecurity is no longer an optional layer but an integral part of the digital infrastructure. With the increasing interconnectivity of machines, sensors, and networks, securing telecom networks is vital for national security and economic stability. He called for a convergence of policy, regulation, and technology to address the evolving threat landscape, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to safeguard digital assets.

The 5G Revolution

Andres Vicente, Head of MA Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India at Ericsson, painted a picture of India as a leader in the 5G revolution. He reported that India has deployed half a billion base stations in just 22 months, providing coverage to 90% of the population. Vicente explained that 5G is not just about connecting people; it is about connecting everything—from vehicles and wearables to critical industries. With ten times the capacity of 4G and 30% less energy consumption, 5G is poised to become the backbone of modern society.

AI’s Transformative Role

Artificial intelligence is another focal point of discussion at IMC 2024. Udayan Mukherjee, Intel Senior Fellow and Chief Architect of Network and Communications Products, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in telecommunications. He noted that AI is enhancing traditional processes and is becoming integral to the development of 6G technologies. The collaboration between the Indian government and industry leaders in AI-driven telecom innovation is paving the way for smarter, more efficient networks capable of predictive maintenance and real-time problem-solving.

Alex Rogers, President of Qualcomm Technology Licensing, echoed these sentiments, stating that the rise of 5G has driven significant growth in data consumption in India, making it the second-largest smartphone market. He pointed out the challenges posed by the increasing power demands of data centers, projecting that they could consume 50% of their capacity by 2035. Rogers proposed shifting AI workloads to edge devices, such as smartphones and vehicles, to achieve power-efficient computing and sustainability.

Overcoming Geographical Challenges

Vito Di Maria, Vice President of APAC Optical Networks Business Centre at Nokia, addressed the geographical challenges that India faces in its journey toward becoming a digitally connected nation. He acknowledged that while digitalization is generating massive amounts of data, laying cables in certain regions remains a challenge. However, he emphasized that India is well-positioned to overcome these obstacles, given its young population and high usage of digital applications.

The Future of Device Manufacturing

A. Gururaj, Managing Director of Optiemus Electronics Ltd., spoke about the need for affordable devices in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision. He highlighted the revolutionary concept of modular smartphones and the importance of evolving battery technology to meet the energy demands of new technologies. Gururaj emphasized that manufacturers must work towards creating devices that are accessible to all, ensuring that technological advancements benefit the entire population.

Conclusion

The India Mobile Congress 2024 serves as a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in telecommunications and technology. With discussions centered around 5G, AI, cybersecurity, and the future of device manufacturing, the event showcases the collaborative efforts of government, industry, and academia to drive innovation and address the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. As India continues to pave the way for technological advancements, the insights shared at IMC 2024 will undoubtedly shape the future of the telecom industry and beyond.