ZTE at MWC Shanghai 2025: From 5G-A to 6G, the Road to Intelligent Connectivity Runs Through AI
At this year’s MWC Shanghai 2025, ZTE Corporation took the stage with a vision that goes beyond connectivity. With two major keynotes delivered by Cui Li, ZTE’s Chief Development Officer, the company set out its agenda for a digital future powered by AI, intelligent computing, and sustainable infrastructure. The focus? Turning buzzwords like “AI for All” and “6G” into blueprints for cross-industry transformation.
In a keynote titled “Digital and Intelligent Evolution: Usher in a New Era of AI Civilization,” Cui Li underscored what ZTE sees as the foundational pillars of the next tech era: efficient infrastructure, optimized algorithms, and practical applications. These aren’t just abstract principles—they’re ZTE’s core engineering agenda.
“Large AI models have ignited a new wave of intelligent transformation,” said Cui. “To keep pace, we’re evolving on multiple fronts—from networks and edge devices to full-stack computing.”
AI Meets ICT: Full-Stack Innovation at Scale
ZTE’s strategy is ambitious yet surgical: build an intelligent foundation that integrates network, computing, and energy systems, then weave in AI across every layer—from cloud to terminal. According to Cui, the company’s “AI for All” philosophy isn’t just branding—it’s an operational priority. Whether it’s consumer devices, industrial IoT, or smart homes, ZTE wants AI to be as embedded and invisible as electricity.
Their approach hinges on three focus areas:
- Advanced Connectivity:
ZTE is betting big on the evolution from 5G to 5G-A (Advanced) and laying the groundwork for 6G. Working closely with China Mobile and other ecosystem partners, the company sees the next-gen network as the neural fabric for intelligent systems. - Intelligent Computing for All:
From hardware acceleration to edge-native AI algorithms, ZTE is targeting computing democratization. The aim is to make AI not only scalable but accessible—optimizing performance while slashing energy costs. - Edge & Terminal Deployment:
Whether it’s AI-enhanced base stations or edge-ready chips, ZTE’s full-stack, full-scenario solutions are designed to shrink latency, reduce carbon emissions, and bring AI closer to where data is generated.
A Shared Vision for a Trusted Ecosystem
Cui Li also addressed the more delicate side of AI: privacy, security, and ethics. She emphasized that building trust in intelligent systems is as critical as technical sophistication.
“This isn’t a solo performance by technology,” she said. “It’s a symphony of ecosystem collaboration.”
That includes active participation in cross-industry initiatives like China Mobile’s 5G-A Enablement White Paper, released at the GTI Summit during MWC. ZTE is aligning with both public and private stakeholders to make sure the benefits of AI and connectivity don’t just scale—they scale responsibly.
Why It Matters
ZTE’s 2025 messaging signals an important shift in how major ICT players are positioning themselves: from product vendors to transformation partners. The company’s evolution from 5G leader to AI ecosystem orchestrator echoes broader industry trends seen from firms like Huawei, Ericsson, and Nokia—except ZTE is anchoring its push in AI democratization and multi-domain integration.
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