Riyadh – October 19, 2026 -- stc group has published its AI Native Core Network White Paper at Network X 2026, setting 2030 as the target for evolving into an AI-native telecom network. The paper explains how the Saudi operator plans to embed AI directly into network design and operations to support emerging digital services and improve reliability.
stc group is upgrading its core network to resolve issues with less manual intervention
The group is upgrading its core network, which manages user connections and delivers communications services. Integrating AI deeply into that layer is meant to help the network adapt to changing service requirements and resolve issues with less manual intervention.
5G-Advanced and AI agents raise network complexity
The white paper says advances in AI and 5G-Advanced, the next stage of 5G, are increasing network complexity. Services such as AI-enabled calling and immersive communications require faster, more responsive connectivity.
AI agents, which are software systems that carry out tasks on users' behalf, also need networks to coordinate communications and computing resources around each task.
stc group's plan spans AI infrastructure, network functions and autonomous operations
The paper details plans to develop the infrastructure needed to run AI, embed intelligence within network functions and automate more operations. According to the group, these capabilities would help the network allocate resources more efficiently and recover from faults faster. Engineers would then focus on service improvement and oversight.
Existing investments anchor the path to 5G-A and 6G services
stc group describes the release as a milestone in its network evolution, building a scalable foundation for future AI services, AI agents, intelligent interaction scenarios and next-generation 5G-A and 6G applications. The group also aims to accelerate the industry's transition from Cloud Native to AI Native networks.