ZTE outlines its strategy to help CSPs achieve L4 autonomous networks

ZTE’s General Manager, Service and Data Intelligence, Peng Zheng, discusses ZTE’s technical advancements in the field of autonomous networks, agentic AI and multi-agent collaboration, and how it is helping CSPs to move towards Level 4 (L4) network autonomy.

TM Forum: How do you see your L4 autonomous networks strategy evolving?

Zheng: Our L4 autonomous network strategy is evolving from traditional automation to intrinsic intelligence and value-driven operations. We build a solid AI foundation with the Nebula Communication Large Model, prioritize large-scale deployment of high-value scenarios such as operation and maintenance (O&M) and user experience optimization, and realize end-to-end intent-driven autonomy.

Architecturally, ZTE is advancing the evolution of network architecture and operational models, led by agentic AI. We have shifted from partial intelligence to full-stack AI integration, with intelligent agents as the core carrier of L4 capabilities. Meanwhile, we have moved from single-vendor closed-loop operations to open ecosystem collaboration.

In 2026, we plan to implement more than 30 benchmark commercial scenarios, helping operators achieve zero-wait, zero-touch network operations, and advancing the industry’s shift from “network-centric” to “user-experience-centric” operations.

TM Forum: What are the advantages to operators of agentic AI and multi-agent collaboration?

Zheng: Agentic AI and multi-agent collaboration are key to delivering L4 autonomous networks, bringing three key advantages to operators.

First, they enable full-process autonomous closed-loop operations, reducing manual workload and operational costs while ensuring consistent service quality.

Second, supported by the A2A-T protocol — a telecom extension of the agent2agent protocol — multi-agent collaboration breaks down cross-domain and cross-vendor barriers, achieving seamless coordination across different systems and realizing global synergy.

Third, they support flexible expansion of application scenarios, allowing operators to quickly adapt to new business needs such as industrial internet and enterprise-level services without reconstructing the core system. This not only improves operational efficiency but also creates new revenue streams through differentiated services.

TM Forum: Can you describe how you are collaborating with mobile operators to help them achieve autonomous network goals more rapidly than before?

Zheng: We work closely with operators through joint innovation and value co-creation. We build joint labs and demonstration areas for replicable use cases, support smooth L3-to-L4 upgrade to protect existing network investments, contribute to global standards, and open up the core capabilities of large models and agents, jointly incubate high-value scenarios, and significantly shorten the cycle from pilot to large-scale commercial use.

Meanwhile, we conduct direct trials, rapid deployment and large-scale promotion of mature standardized scenarios, and realize rapid result replication in line with TM Forum Solution Package specifications.

TM Forum: How does ZTE's autonomous network solution support the end-to-end L4 evolution and large-scale commercial deployment of the entire network?

Zheng: ZTE’s AIR Net autonomous network solution fully aligns with TM Forum’s autonomous network standards and adopts a modular, open architecture to support end-to-end L4 evolution and large-scale commercialization.

It integrates AI large models, digital twins, and multi-agent collaboration technologies, building a complete closed-loop system from perception, decision-making to execution. The solution provides a smooth evolution path from L3 to L4, ensuring that operators can gradually upgrade their capabilities without disrupting existing services.

Meanwhile, we have accumulated rich practical experience in large-scale deployment, with standardized solution packages and mature implementation methodologies that can be quickly replicated across different operator networks, helping operators achieve large-scale L4 autonomous network deployment efficiently and cost-effectively.

TM Forum: What should operators be prioritising to achieve autonomous networks at scale?

Zheng: To scale up autonomous network deployment effectively, operators need to focus on core priorities.

First, set clear strategic goals and adopt a unified end-to-end technical architecture. Second, prioritize high-value scenarios, validate practical results, and conduct phased rollout under rigorous security governance. Third, invest steadily in talent development and core technology accumulation. Fourth, take an active part in global standard development and industry benchmarking, and deepen ecosystem collaboration to strengthen industrial influence.

Ultimately, autonomous networks will help operators elevate O&M service quality, cut operational costs, and drive sustainable business growth and overall operational efficiency.