Telus, Samsung launch software platform amid shift to AI-powered networks

Telus Corp. is partnering with Samsung to deploy what it calls Canada’s first commercial radio access network intelligent controller, a software platform that will help eventually deliver networks fully powered by artificial intelligence.

Samsung said its technology will enable automation, enhanced energy efficiency and optimized performance across Telus’ wireless network.

Telus said this will enable it to use AI “throughout network operations and management.”

“What it’ll allow Telus ultimately to do is basically run a more robust, high-performing network, reduce their energy consumption and also allow them to automate certain tasks,” Stephen Wiktorski, head of networks at Samsung Canada, said in an interview.

He said Telus is one of the first companies worldwide to announce such a move — one he predicts “every operator around the world will deploy over the next four to five years.”

For Telus, it will also mean reduced costs in running its cellular network, he said.

“Telus is a very complex network. It’s got a lot of radios,” said Wiktorski.

“By using AI and predictive analysis, we can start to look at traffic patterns, at usage, and we can start to turn off different cells and only use them when we need them. So instead of having a cell that is operating 24/7, we can turn it on just in the peak times when you need it and then put it back to sleep when you don’t need it.”

The launch is the latest step in an ongoing collaboration between the two companies.

In February 2024, Telus and Samsung announced they would build the country’s first commercial virtualized and open radio access network, saying the technology would offer enhanced performance, flexibility, energy efficiency and automation.

They called it a “revolutionary approach to infrastructure deployment” when it comes to building wireless networks.

With an open radio access network, Telus is able to use components from different manufacturers to deliver service, while the virtualized aspect relies on software instead of hardware. Telus said this provides it with faster access to the latest technologies as they become available.

“We are excited to broaden our collaboration with Samsung to transform our network and enhance the customer experience using AI,” said Telus vice-president of wireless strategy and services Bernard Bureau in a press release.

“This partnership … will enable us to provide more personalized, efficient and sustainable services.”

Wiktorski said Telus customers should notice faster speeds and reduced network performance issues over time. That could mean fewer dropped calls or stalled data connectivity, along with clearer voice quality.

“The end user will really see more things around just generally a better quality network, a faster network,” he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 18, 2025.

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