Jakarta, INTI - At the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison showcased an artificial intelligence powered 5G call demonstration. Through the concept of AI-RAN (Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network), the company integrates AI capabilities directly into its network infrastructure. 

In Indonesia, the AI-RAN capability was demonstrated through a robotic dog operating in Surabaya, which could be controlled remotely by a user located in Barcelona with almost no delay. For some observers, the demonstration may appear to be a typical technology showcase. However, for Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, it represents a glimpse into the future of Indonesia’s digital ecosystem. The test marks an important milestone in the development of AI-powered networks designed to be not only faster but also more adaptive and responsive.

During the demonstration, artificial intelligence and network intelligence operated simultaneously. Commands, data, and video streams were transmitted instantly across countries while maintaining secure connectivity. The technology highlights a broader shift, AI is no longer merely an additional feature but is now embedded directly within the network infrastructure.

President Director and CEO of Indosat, Vikram Sinha, emphasized that the achievement goes beyond technical validation and reflects the company’s commitment to ensuring that everyone can benefit from AI.

“This achievement not only proves that the technology works, but also ensures that every Indonesian, wherever they are, can experience the benefits of digitalization and AI. Our commitment is simple, no one should be left behind,” he said.

With the AI-RAN approach, Indosat’s network is designed to reduce latency, improve energy efficiency, and optimize spectrum utilization. Beyond faster download and upload speeds, embedding AI into network infrastructure is expected to create tangible benefits in everyday life.

For instance, farmers could operate smart agricultural tools in real time. Healthcare professionals may rely on AI-driven diagnostics to assist with medical analysis. Teachers could also personalize learning experiences for students, including those in remote areas located far from major data centers.

Chief Technology and AI Officer of Indosat, Pallavi Mahajan, described the collaboration as a transformation in how networks function.

“This first AI-powered 5G call in Southeast Asia demonstrates what is possible when leading innovators focus on delivering smarter connectivity. IOH, NVIDIA, and Nokia are reshaping how networks operate while accelerating Indonesia’s digital ambitions,” she said.

From the technology partner side, Senior Vice President of NVIDIA, Ronnie Vasishta, described AI-RAN as a platform that distributes intelligence across network infrastructure.

“Indosat’s vision to drive local innovation, supported by Nokia’s 5G software and NVIDIA’s accelerated computing, is creating a blueprint for network development that strengthens the national ecosystem, drives economic growth, and develops local talent,” he said.

The initiative does not stop at the stage of Mobile World Congress 2026. Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison plans to establish four AI-RAN clusters across different regions in Indonesia as part of the transition toward real-world implementation. Strengthening network intelligence is expected to improve service quality while also encouraging the growth of AI-based applications within the country.

At the same time, the company is developing an AI-RAN Research Center in Surabaya in collaboration with Nokia and NVIDIA. The research facility aims to enhance the capabilities of local engineers through immersive learning programs connected to global innovation laboratories.

Indosat’s role as a telecommunications operator, data center provider, and GPU-as-a-Service platform enables the integration of networks, cloud infrastructure, and artificial intelligence within a single ecosystem. This integrated approach is expected to accelerate the development of digital services while maintaining long-term sustainability and resilience.

AI-RAN Implementation 

At the AI-RAN Research Center in Surabaya, Indosat showcased its AI-powered 5G technology through a robotic dog demonstration, where the robot could be controlled directly by a user located in Barcelona. The robodog was designed to function as a home security assistant capable of monitoring indoor conditions when residents are away. Equipped with cameras, the robot allows owners to observe their homes remotely through their devices.

Through a high-speed and intelligent network, the robotic dog was able to receive commands from thousands of kilometers away with almost no delay. It could be instructed to check and receive packages, monitor the home environment for potential risks, and even locate misplaced items. Interestingly, Indosat collaborated with students from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember in developing the robodog’s intelligence capabilities.

“The future is no longer just about network speed, but about intelligence, and that is where AI-RAN plays its role. This means Indosat will build networks that are not only fast, as commonly offered in the telecom industry, but also provide added value by delivering intelligent networks,” said Irwan Radius, VP Head of Technology Strategy Partnership Management at Indosat.

With Indonesia’s vast geography and diverse population, inclusive innovation is considered essential. Embedding AI directly into network infrastructure opens opportunities for the development of smart city services, digital public services, and technology-driven economic initiatives, both in urban centers and remote regions.

Through AI-RAN and distributed AI infrastructure, Indosat aims to strengthen a national AI ecosystem that is inclusive, resilient, and sovereign. This vision goes beyond simply connecting devices; it focuses on connecting opportunities.

The achievement in Barcelona symbolizes that Indonesia is no longer merely a technology market but is increasingly becoming part of the global innovation landscape. For Indosat, the ambition is clear: ensuring that Indonesians are not only users of AI but also creators and leaders shaping its future.

Conclusion 

The AI-RAN demonstration highlights how intelligent network infrastructure can transform connectivity into a platform for innovation. By integrating AI directly into its network, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison aims to accelerate Indonesia’s digital transformation while strengthening the country’s position within the global AI and telecommunications ecosystem.

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