This is expected to prevent service failures due to unexpected accidents and ensure uninterrupted services.

SK Telecom and Nokia have signed an MOU to commercialise fiber sensing technology in Korea.

Fiber sensing technology uses AI to monitor phase changes in data transmission, detecting potential environmental threats to optical networks.

The technology can be integrated with existing wired networks and applied to large-scale backbone systems.

SK Telecom (SKT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nokia to demonstrate and commercialise "fiber sensing," an AI technology for fixed-line networks that monitors the environment around optical cables. SKT and Nokia will gather empirical data through machine learning on SKT's commercial network, aiming to commercialise "fiber sensing" for the first time in Korea by the end of the year.

Fiber Sensing Technology

In a joint statement, the companies explained that fiber sensing is a technology that detects various environmental factors that can affect wired network optical cables. When data is transmitted through fiber optic cables, the phase of the light can change depending on the surrounding environment of the cable, and these phase changes can be monitored to detect damage to the wired network or the impact of environmental conditions.

Detects Threats to Optical Networks

Fiber sensing technology monitors phase changes in data transmission through fiber optic cables, detecting environmental factors such as earthquakes, climate changes, and construction activities that could impact the network. This proactive approach allows for the early detection of potential threats, reducing the risk of service interruptions.

The technology can be integrated with existing wired network equipment and applied to large-scale backbone networks without distance limitations, the joint statement said.

Nokia said, "Starting with this MOU, we hope to apply Nokia's sensing technology to an AI-based automated network. We will work together to proactively detect and respond to on-site situations and provide stable services."

Enhancing Network Stability Nationwide

SKT plans to introduce "fiber sensing" to the nationwide wired network and prepare an intelligent pre-response system to minimise the damage caused by line disconnections at construction sites. This is expected to prevent service failures due to unexpected accidents and ensure uninterrupted services.