Edge computing is revolutionizing the way telecoms companies like Deutsche Telekom deliver their services to customers. In a recent interview at the Edge Computing Expo Europe, Yamina Kelm, Product Manager for Edge Computing at Deutsche Telekom, discussed how edge computing is transforming the company’s approach to providing faster and more reliable services.
Deutsche Telekom’s edge computing offering allows customers to leverage their edge data centers, effectively offloading processing power. This approach has created a new ecosystem of use cases characterized by low latency, high security, and scalability, all supported by the company’s core strengths in connectivity and network infrastructure.
One of the key benefits of edge computing for telecoms companies like Deutsche Telekom is the transition from being pure connectivity providers to becoming platforms for digital transformation. This transition allows companies to maintain vital relationships with customers while driving innovation and digitization.
The integration of edge computing also opens doors to new possibilities that were previously unattainable. Lower latency, a hallmark of edge computing, enables applications like video analytics and machine-to-machine communication to thrive. These advancements, although not entirely new, gain new dimensions and scalability through edge computing.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is another area where edge computing plays a crucial role. By offloading AI processing to the edge cloud, Deutsche Telekom positions itself as a critical enabler in the growth of the AI industry.
Deutsche Telekom is exploring a range of use cases driven by customer demand. One notable example is the automated checkout process in retail stores, where customers can enter and exit without physical contact, using smartphones for item scanning and payment.
While these advancements represent significant steps toward digital transformation, Kelm acknowledges the need for a gradual transition to ensure that no one is left behind.
Looking ahead, Kelm sees emerging trends in edge computing, particularly the rise of federated edges. Telcos are increasingly exploring ways to collaborate with other operators to create international edge footprints, enhancing the overall network’s capabilities while optimizing costs.
Security is paramount in the age of edge computing. Deutsche Telekom is dedicated to safeguarding both the network and the platforms it offers. Kelm emphasizes the importance of partnerships with security and application layer experts, recognizing that telcos cannot excel in every domain and must collaborate to ensure comprehensive protection.
As Deutsche Telekom continues to evolve into a telco-as-a-platform, the synergy between connectivity and edge computing demonstrates the company’s commitment to delivering innovative, secure, and reliable services to its customers.