Nokia and stc Group Optimize Network with AI-powered MantaRay Cognitive SON Solution in Saudi Arabia

• Nokia implements customized AI-powered Cognitive SON solution making autonomous RAN operations a reality in stc’s commercial network 
• Supports stc Group’s ambition to add range of AI-driven capabilities to its network to drive digital transformation and sustainable growth

ESPOO - Nokia announced that it has successfully deployed its MantaRay Cognitive SON, the AI-powered self-organizing networks solution, in stc Group’s (stc) commercial network for the first time. MantaRay SON is an industry-leading network optimization and automation platform that uses self-configuring modules to boost network performance and efficiency. It can be tailored and deployed to optimize specific software applications and to address unique operational challenges. Cognitive SON is an AI-powered software feature of MantaRay SON that enables autonomous RAN operations. Nokia created a customized solution for stc, according to the official website of Nokia. 

Cognitive SON was implemented in a period of high traffic, during which it processed over 10,000 actions, resulting in an increased utilization rate of approximately 30 percent on loaded cells and 10 percent average improvement on user throughput. Despite traffic increasing by 40 percent during this period, stc’s network successfully maintained consistent connectivity. Autonomous RAN operations also reduced manual work and improved network quality.

The development of an AI-powered network module expands stc’s suite of advanced AI solutions. It offers a wide range of AI-driven capabilities that help accelerate digital transformation and enable sustainable growth, including enhancing radio network energy efficiency, which resulted in a 13 percent reduction in energy consumption across stc’s 4G and 5G networks in 2023. By 2025, stc’s AI-powered products will cover over 200 systems, enabling further cost efficiencies.

Haithem Al Faraj, Chief Technology Officer at stc Group said: “stc and Nokia are pioneering a new era where Artificial Intelligence revolutionizes the telecom industry. This technology not only minimizes human error and improves quality but also allows networks to operate autonomously and efficiently, while humans remain essential in guiding and maximizing the outcomes from machine learning."

Mikko Lavanti, Head of MEA at Nokia commented: “Through our collaboration with stc Group, Nokia is transforming the optimization of radio networks with the integration of Artificial Intelligence. Our MantaRay Cognitive SON solution, equipped with sophisticated AI algorithms, represents a quantum leap in autonomous network operations – a global first in its deployment by stc Group.

This AI-driven innovation has redefined standards for network performance, ensuring robust and consistent service for customers even during peak usage periods. Together with stc, we will continue exploring new use cases for Cognitive SON to achieve further efficiency enhancements.”