The AI language model could significantly help the South Korean mobile carrier compete with the United States-based technology firms such as OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. One of the most widely used large language model (LLM)-based chatbot services is OpenAI's ChatGPT. While an LLM is normally based on about one billion parameters, ChatGPT is known to have some 100 billion parameters. Parameters are the numerical values that determine how a model behaves and functions.
During a conference led by SK Group chairman Chey Tae-won, the four telecom companies agreed to develop a new model called "Telco AI Platform." The platform will be used to create a new LLM that can provide various types of AI services. "Through collaborative efforts, we will accelerate AI transformation of all industries, provide new value and experience to our customers, and lead the growth of the global AI ecosystem," SKT CEO Ryu Young-sang said in a statement on July 27.
"In order to make the most of the possibilities of generative AI for our customers and our industry, we want to develop industry-specific applications in the Telco AI Alliance," said Claudia Nemat, a board member for Deutsche Telekom's technology and innovation division. The German company operates its services in 12 countries including the U.S. and Germany.
e& provides telecommunications services in 16 countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Singtel has more than 770 million consumers in 21 countries including India, Indonesia, and Thailand.