Latest News

Ericsson, the telecommunication giant experimenting on developing the next-gen automated network infrastructure

Published

6 years ago

March 9, 2018

Athira A

Ericsson Completes 5G Platform For Operators — Leadership Nigeria Newspapers. Photo credits: Leadership Newspaper

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Ericsson, the multinational networking and telecommunications company which has been shaping the future of mobile broadband internet communications through its continuous technology leadership, is now in the act of experimenting with a host of machine learning and predictive intelligence algorithms to develop the next-gen automated network infrastructure.

The age of 5G is very much at hand. For service providers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and the networking hardware and software vendors supplying them, it means preparing next-gen networks with the tools required to adapt to a new set of data, device, and connectivity challenges.

Cisco and Nokia, the Software-defined networking companies are building more autonomous networks infused with machine learning and predictive analytics. But it is likely that any telecommunications giant is exploring network-based artificial intelligence (AI) in as many fascinating ways as Ericsson.

Across autonomous infrastructure, managed services, and even virtual assistants deployed in customer and field scenarios, Ericsson is embedding machine learning algorithms and data-driven AI in its entire end-to-end telecommunications pipeline. PCMag spoke to Ulrika Jagare, Ericsson’s Director of Analytics and Machine Intelligence, about the company’s years of R&D efforts and how she envisions Ericsson’s intelligent networks analysing and evolving to scale along with 5G.

“We’re looking at and exploring a lot of different potentials AI scenarios, mainly using network data,” said Jagare. “In managed networks, this means combining machine intelligence at the edge, from the base station to the Internet of Things. We’ve come up with a lot of different cases we want to try out in 2018.”

Feeding Data to Autonomous Networks

Much like Google and other Silicon Valley tech giants, Ericsson has spent the last several years rewriting how its software works with AI. Jagare said Ericsson’s network infrastructure has been overhauled to help combine its vast network data with machine intelligence. This is not only to feed the machine learning algorithms more data but to prepare the infrastructure for high-performance edge computing.

“We’re investing a lot in infrastructure. We’re building up a globally distributed pipeline to make sure we can get hold of data in a smarter way, but also with the option to compute the data locally if needed,” said Jagare. “We need to make sure we can deliver services with high speed and quality without having to drag everything to a central point. So that’s where the edge comes into play.”

Creating this kind of end-to-end data pipeline isn’t easy. Through initiatives like the 5G Transformer Project, Ericsson is working with local operators applying machine learning to create smarter networks. Jagare said the company has done one successful trial with a European operator over the last 10 months, applying what she described as “the first advanced machine learning algorithm for load balancing in the network.”

Companies like Cisco have launched similar pilots, like working with Vodafone in Ireland using ML algorithms to process network data and identify predictive traffic patterns. Jagare said the idea is to start with these small-scale pilots with local operators to show the value of AI-enhanced telco infrastructure.

“It’s a big challenge, but we have a lot of experience working with and correlating network data in localized sectors,” said Jagare. “Most research is happening in the lab because of the complexity of self-learning networks. I was talking to one of our major customers in the U.S. recently and they were impressed with how far we’ve been able to go with getting algorithms running on live networks.”

Voice Assistants and Digital Twins

Ultimately the goal is to create self-learning, self-healing networks. In the meantime, Ericsson is also experimenting with voice assistants and natural language processing (NLP) to help technicians who are in the field fixing physical infrastructure.

Jagare said Ericsson is equipping technicians with a mobile app a la Google Assistant or Cortana to decrease time spent on site visits. One of the first use cases is focused on troubleshooting. Using open-source machine learning and NLP frameworks, Ericsson lets the voice assistant soak up an entire product knowledge base of vast document libraries and technical manuals, then speak back to the technician in natural language to answer queries. The app can also perform image recognition and computer vision through the smartphone camera.

“We’re reducing the number of site visits [through automation] but we want to make sure that when we do visit a site, it’s done as efficiently as possible. So if a virtual assistant is assisting the technician on a field operation, it can act as a service layer; an application on the phone using natural language processing and image recognition to aid the worker. If it detects from an image that there’s a problem, it can tell the technician to ‘fix it in this place’ and so on,” said Jagare.”

The AI can also create digital twins, be it of a particular base station or a virtualized view of the entire network. At the moment these assistive capabilities are only available to site technicians via smartphone, but Ericsson is testing out other applications in its lab. Jagare said a “natural step” would be to make virtual assistants and digital twin schematics available through hands-free augmented reality glasses. Manufacturers like Boeing and GE are already doing this.

Using all the network data combined with machine intelligence, Jagare said Ericsson aims to predict and prevent network problems before they happen, ultimately turning predominately to remote fixes in place of human technicians.

“The other service perspective we’re working on is a managed services solution called Intelligent Site. We’re trying to combine user data and algorithms to detect deviations and patterns,” said Jagare. “Not only with network data, but incorporating things like weather and other data types to help profile each site.”

The 5G Evolution

5G will usher in a new era of telecommunications where everything from AR/VR headsets to self-driving cars will be connecting and interacting with network infrastructure. Ericsson’s focus on machine intelligence, Jagare explained, is meant to tackle the complexity wrought by a new generation of IoT devices while allowing for the flexibility to evolve naturally, as devices and experiences do.

“From a technology and 5G perspective, automation and machine intelligence can help us take the functionality to the next level, but also helps us realize a selective push toward different technology choices,” said Jagare. “It’s not about data scientists driving this. In the future, we will probably have more self-learning software in our networks than not.”

Ericsson is putting intelligence algorithms to work in base stations and broadband networks, both on the edge and as-a-service. As a result, Jagare said the company has seen 25 percent performance improvements in core system optimization to help lower overall system management costs.

She said the idea is to continue expanding these self-optimizing network features and then feed that learning back into development. Ultimately, however, Ericsson knows that machine learning algorithms will then start to learn on their own. As 5G networks create new challenges and opportunities that telcos haven’t even fathomed yet, AI conceivably offers a way for networks to keep pace.

“It’s up to the algorithm to learn and optimise itself from base station to base station. Depending on the traffic patterns and user behaviour with people using different apps in different ways, we can adjust the cells connected to that site throughout the network,” said Jagare. “It’s a holistic, data-enabled approach. We can’t be too specific. We have to think about these needs and solutions to prepare for what’s coming, but we’ve only started scratching the surface. That’s how we try to embrace AI.”

Source: pcmag.com

Balkans

Expanse Studios Launches in Bulgaria with Inbet

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Alan Campbell

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Expanse Studios, a leader in online gaming innovation, has secured a Bulgarian iGaming license and is now live on Inbet’s website. This expansion brings Expanse Studios’ popular game offerings including turn-based strategies gamified for iGaming, classic slots, traditional card games and the highly-acclaimed ones like Titan Roulette, Clown Fever Deluxe, Wild Icy Fruits, White Wild Whale and Joker Poker to Bulgarian players.

Diverse Gaming Portfolio Now Available to Bulgarian Players

With the Bulgarian market entry, Expanse Studios introduces a versatile gaming experience to Inbet’s platform. The offerings include a dynamic range of games tailored to diverse player preferences:

Turn-based strategy games: Leveraging gamification, these games transform traditional strategy gameplay into engaging iGaming experiences, suitable for both novice and experienced players.
Classic slots: Players will enjoy a variety of themed slots that combine traditional gameplay with modern graphics and sound.
Traditional card games: A selection of popular card games offer something for every card game enthusiast.
Titan Roulette: This standout feature, known for its immersive experience and innovative design, continues to be a favorite among roulette players.

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

Expanse Studios not only cultivates a diverse gaming library but also adheres to stringent regulatory standards to ensure a secure and fair gaming environment. The acquisition of the Bulgarian iGaming license is a testament to Expanse Studios’ commitment to compliance and excellence in the gaming industry.

The partnership between Expanse Studios and Inbet marks a significant milestone in Expanse Studios’ expansion efforts. By combining Expanse Studios’ innovative gaming solutions with Inbet’s established market presence, both entities are set to offer a superior gaming experience to players in Bulgaria and potentially beyond. As Expanse Studios continues to develop and release new games monthly, Bulgarian players can look forward to a continually evolving and enriching gaming landscape.

Latest News

Week 17/2024 slot games releases

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

George Miller

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, is on point with its latest sharply designed game, Golden øks. This Norse-inspired adventure carries on from the popular Axe of Fortune title that hit the market at the turn of the year. Golden øks is set against a 5×3 layout and is brought to life with a powerful soundtrack to heighten the atmosphere.

Belatra grows games portfolio with Golden øks title

Endorphina, has announced the release of its brand-new title, Jolly Queen, which will join its portfolio on April 27th. Jolly Queen is a 5-reel, 5-row fruit slot with 50 fixed paylines, introducing players to the lifestyle of the nobles. On top of the aristocratic ambiance, Jolly Queen provides players with Free Games, allowing them to master the reels.

Endorphina releases its newest title - Jolly Queen!

Evoplay has released Candy Craze, a vibrant slot stacked with features and modifiers, including the powerful Gum Drop Multiplier which boosts win potential. Set amidst the backdrop of sumptuous sweets within a cloudy landscape, the 5×5 cascading reels title gives players a sugary rush when the Gum Drop Multiplier activates, revealing a mystery value at the end of each winning spin up to x100, enhancing the chance for wins during the main game and Free Spins.

Yggdrasil, a leading iGaming publisher, has revived the gold rush in a jackpot-filled game that embodies the spirit of old west prospecting in Gold Frontier Jackpots FastPot5™. Fans of lower volatility slots with straightforward mechanics that get fortune seekers right to the heart of the action are tasked with gathering keys to enter the treasure bonus game.

Relax Gaming is offering players some opulence in its latest release Sultan Spins. This high volatility slot sees its gold-trimmed reels set against a sprawling desert metropolis. Players have the chance to rack up riches via an entertaining free spins feature and lucrative local jackpot.

Greentube has introduced its latest title in the popular Diamond Link ™ series, Diamond Link ™: Mighty Dwarves Inc. Set deep in underground mines, this adventurous 5×3 slot is packed with innovative features for ample chance to win across its 25 paylines when players spin the reels adorned with hammers, hard hats and laser symbols.

Get your eyes ready because it’s time to take a trip to the pet centre to meet the ugliest, quirkiest, wildest-looking pets you’ve ever seen in the brand new slot, Fugly Pets, from Stakelogic. Fugly Pets takes players to a banged-up old pet store to explore its collection of weird and charming, downright ugly pets. Meet a scruffy parrot, a catnip crazed kitty, and an unfortunate-looking little dog.

Load your tackle box, bait your hook and get ready to reel in the catch of the day in Fishin’ The Biggest from Apparat Gaming, the in-demand German software provider’s latest splash hit slot that sees players trawl the sea for free spins and massively multiplied prizes. Played over five reels, three rows and ten fixed paylines, Fishin’ The Biggest is a highly-volatile title with an outdoor angling theme.

Thunderkick has announced the launch of Midas Golden Touch 2, the highly-anticipated sequel to the acclaimed 2019 original. This latest release invites players to rediscover an enchanted realm where everything King Midas touches turns to gold. The 3×5 video slot boasts 15 paylines and showcases Thunderkick’s signature high-quality design and innovative features.

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, has served up another classic with its tasty Chef’s Sticky Fruits slot. This latest release from Belatra’s studio is a vibrant and juicy addition to its renowned catalogue of slots. It’s a 5×4 slot game bursting with colour that’s heightened with an upbeat, retro soundtrack that perfectly captures the essence of fun at the heart of every play.

Belatra serves up tasty Chef’s Sticky Fruits slot

3 Oaks Gaming has launched 3 China Pots: Hold and Win, the first time the company has integrated the popular 3 Pots mechanic within a Far East-themed title. The latest instalment from 3 Oaks to incorporate the 3 Pots functionality sees players transported to the allure of the Orient, where the Extra, Double and Multi modifiers influence the Bonus Game once activated.

3 Oaks Gaming presents a feature-rich trip to the Far East in 3 China Pots: Hold and Win

Pragmatic Play has unleashed roaming wild re-spins and random guaranteed wins in Release the Bison. Symbols of the American frontier abound in this 5×4 slot, where hitting four or more rampaging bison triggers the wild re-spin feature, during which all wilds roam the reels to boost win potential.

Blueprint Gaming’s latest slot release tasks players to look for the leprechaun’s pot of gold under the water rather than at the end of the rainbow in Plenty O’ Fish, a 6×4 hybrid of sea creatures and shimmering rewards. Players must look to unlock a tackle box of treasure with a jaunty leprechaun being the key to wins, lurking behind a dynamically coloured underwater background that changes when the bonus game is triggered.

Booming Games has launched its latest sweet sensation to its collection of engaging slot games – Fruit Heaven Hold and Win™. This is a deliciously designed 5×3 slot game with 25 paylines, which promises players an exciting experience full of fantastic fruity features and Stacked Wilds.

Wazdan is multiplying jackpots in the follow-up to its top-performing game Mighty Wild™: Panther Grand Gold Edition. Venturing to the depths of the jungle where a black panther rules the reels on a 5×3 gameboard, the new edition provides even larger win potential. With the increased value of the Cash symbols and Cash Infinity™ symbols, there is also a more lucrative Grand Jackpot of 1500x the base bet.

Conferences in Europe

CasinoBeats Summit 2024: Providing the Tools to Balance Innovation and Regulation in the Digital Age

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Alan Campbell

Reading Time: 2 minutes

As the industry seeks optimal methods to responsibly integrate innovative technology, the upcoming CasinoBeats Summit will provide delegates with an exploration of the latest emerging technologies, regulatory frameworks and future trends to ensure a safe yet immersive gaming experience for players.

The Industry and Leadership track will take place across both core days of the CasinoBeats Summit, May 22 to 23 at the InterContinental Malta. Panel sessions will delve into key topics such as global gaming regulations, the evolving digital payment landscape and an in-depth exploration of the world of M&A.

The panel entitled Responsible Gambling in the Digital Age will delve into the latest responsible gambling initiatives influencing the digital landscape. Expert speakers Pedro Romero (RG Consultant and psychologist, University of Gibraltar), Matthew Curtis (Head of Responsible Gaming, L&L), Georgia Wise (Head of Responsible Gaming, PlayNorth), Eduards Jakubovs (Head of Responsible Gaming, Betsson) and panel moderator Maris Catania (Senior SG Consultant, SG: Certified) will analyse the impact of landmark regulatory guidelines such as the 3.4.3 regulation on remote customer interaction and the United Kingdom’s ‘white paper’ as well as discuss the latest distinctions between regulated, grey and black markets.

The Industry Trends and Future Predictions panel will look at the future of the casino sector, examining upcoming industry trends and their potential impact. Industry leaders Itai Zak (Executive Director, Digicode, and former/ex-Chief Executive Officer, SBTech), Matthew D’Emanuele (Chief Executive Officer, Yolo Entertainment), Alexander Martin (Chief Executive Officer, SKS365), Inesa Glazaite (Chief Commercial Officer, iGaming Platform), Dmitry Starostenkov (Chief Executive Officer, EvenBet) alongside panel moderator Martyn Elliott (Project Director, SBC Media) will offer insights into key emerging markets, innovative game formats and strategies to effectively cater to evolving player needs.

Commencing the second day is the panel entitled The Evolving Landscape of Gaming Sector Payments, which will explore the current state of the industry’s payment sector. Expert speakers Sean Spiteri (Head of Payment Solutions, PressEnter), Enrico Giancaterina (Managing Director, Funtech) and Ian Perrygrove (Chief Risk Officer, Kwiff) will discuss the current payment innovations driven by the casino sector, analyse the future of digital payment methods and the potential risks of such rapid innovations.

The Navigating the Future: Global Gaming Regulations panel will explore strategies to effectively address the challenges posed by current and future global regulations. Regulator representatives Aideen Shortt, (Advisor to the Minister, Curacao), Andrew Lyman (Gambling Commissioner and Executive Director, Gibraltar), Andrew Rhodes (Chief Executive, Gambling Commission) and Brandon Debattista (Deputy Chief Regulatory Officer, Malta Gaming Authority) will provide insights into their respective markets whilst assessing the possibility of a unified global regulatory standard and the importance of cross-market collaboration.

Additionally, track attendees will have the opportunity to garner insights into the world of acquisition and investment during an exclusive IMGL-led masterclass, Acquisition Strategy: Gearing up for Investment, which is set to take place on Thursday, May 23, the second core day of the event.

For groups of three or more, you can purchase the Group Pass Ticket and gain access to all three days of the CasinoBeats Summit for the discounted price of €400 per person (a saving of €200 per ticket). Additionally, operators and affiliates can apply for a free pass to the event.

You can keep up-to-date with the latest news, speakers and exhibitor additions and conference content by subscribing to the bi-weekly CasinoBeats Summit LinkedIn newsletter.