AI helps the company assess the large number of variables to be considered before installing a transmitter.

Verizon (NYSE: VZ) is going to spend billions of dollars over the coming years on its 5G rollout. Apart from the cost of airwaves and related expenses, the telecom major will install network equipment across the US to build out its national 5G service. Literally, thousands of 5G wireless transmitters would have to be placed, and according to Shankar Arumugavelu, senior vice president and global chief information officer of Verizon, the company is looking to maximize service coverage with the least number of transmitters. (WSJ)

AI models to optimize placement of transmitters

Verizon’s data scientists and other employees have created AI models to take into account the large number of variables that can affect the strength and quality of 5G signals from the transmitters. These include trees, buildings, bridges, terrain, the position of the transmitter, even other transmitters nearby.

Indeed, Verizon has already been using AI since 2018 for the placement of transmitters for its ultra-wideband spectrum. Now, for the mid-band spectrum rollout, which will cover 100 million people by March 2022, Verizon is taking recourse again to AI-based technology.

Verizon’s AI models use computer vision to capture and assess the surrounding area within the target ZIP code. The models then pinpoint the best locations to mount the backpack-sized transmitters – usually on tall structures such as buildings or utility poles.

Apart from placement, the AI models also determine the optimum positioning of the antenna to obtain the best signal and without interference.

With billions of dollars at stake, and customers, particularly enterprise ones, hungry for 5G, Verizon has to get it right the first time with its network rollout.

“Without AI, we would not be able to do this. Period,” says Mr. Arumugavelu.

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