An in-depth Q&A with Net AI
Since re-joining Head Resourcing this year, I’ve been reflecting on the key areas where we’re likely to see real growth in the Scottish tech landscape over the next few years and it’s clear that AI start-ups are set to play a huge part in that evolution. One company that’s leading the change is Net AI, an innovative Edinburgh-based business looking to transform the telecoms industry by making networks greener and smarter with AI-driven solutions.
I recently met with Paul Patras, CEO and Co-Founder of Net AI, at The Source Coffee Co on Spittal Street in Edinburgh (great coffee), to learn more about what they’re building, the challenges they’re tackling, and how synthetic data is helping them bring cutting-edge AI to a traditionally risk-averse sector. Following that conversation, I thought it would be great to delve further into who Net AI are, read on to find out what makes their approach unique, and why their work matters.
This is not just for the telecoms industry as it shows what is possible when AI is put to work solving meaningful, real-world problems.
Using AI and synthetic data to make mobile networks greener
What problem are you solving?
We're addressing the growing energy consumption problem in mobile networks, particularly within Radio Access Networks (RANs), which make up for over 75% of a telecom operator’s energy footprint. With rising traffic demands and the need for uninterrupted service, the profit margins are getting smaller, and the energy costs are becoming unsustainable for operators. Our mission is to help mobile network operators reduce their energy costs by up to 60% without compromising service quality.
How exactly are you using AI?
We have developed a software solution that intelligently switches off/on radio-frequency carriers and cells based on real-time predictive insights into traffic demands obtained with our AI-driven forecasting engine. This approach enables mobile operators to significantly reduce the energy consumption of their infrastructure while being confident that quality of service is maintained.
Click here to access your free copy of the EnergAIze White Paper
How does synthetic data help?
Synthetic data plays a crucial role in overcoming the data-sharing challenges that arise when developing AI solutions. By using AI to generate realistic, simulated datasets that mimic real-world network conditions, we can train and test models without needing access to sensitive or proprietary data. This allows us to create energy-saving solutions while preserving the privacy and confidentiality of telecom operators’ data.
Net AI’s CEO, Paul Patras, discussing synthetic data on Sparring Partners podcast
What makes this project unique?
What sets this project apart is its innovative use of synthetic data to address one of the critical issues in the telecom industry, reducing energy consumption. We’ve developed AI models that can work within a simulated environment, allowing telecom operators to test energy-saving strategies before deployment, without sharing sensitive data. Beyond this, our aim is to create robust safety measures to ensure AI systems are safe, transparent, and trustworthy before they are adopted in the real world.
Read more about the Safeguarded AI Programme Thesis here
What’s the end goal?
The ultimate goal is to revolutionise mobile network management, enabling telecom operators to cut energy consumption across their networks and meet net-zero targets while maintaining customer experience. By leveraging AI and synthetic data, we aim to help the industry become more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly without compromising on performance.
Read more about the Net AI X ARIA Collaboration
Where can people learn more?
People can learn more about our work by visiting our website, LinkedIn page or blog, where we share insights and updates on our latest advancements in AI and machine learning.
A big thank you to Paul from Net AI for his time answering all of my questions! If you’d like to share your AI case studies with us and our community please get in touch (details are at the end of the blog).
At Head Resourcing, we work closely with start-ups to map out what skills they’ll need as they grow, share up-to-date salary insights, and give a real view of the local talent landscape so you can hire smarter and scale confidently. If you’re an AI start-up, or any early-stage tech company, figuring out who to hire next please get in touch. We’re always happy to share what we’re seeing in the market and help bring your team’s vision to life.
Get in touch!
Senior Consultant | Head Resourcing
cbeveridge@headresourcing.com | 07875373884
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