Charting AI Monetisation: The telco landscape report 2026 - External Affairs
Thursday January 22, 2026

Charting AI Monetisation: The telco landscape report 2026

Resource thumbnail

Telcos are already utilising and embedding AI across their operations, yet the industry remains at an inflection point. While operators have made progress with machine learning and automation, the rapid evolution of generative AI and large language models is exposing structural gaps in scale, capability and pace. At the same time, persistent growth challenges are sharpening the focus on how AI can move beyond efficiency gains to support sustainable revenue generation. This report examines the realistic monetisation pathways available to operators, grounding the discussion in current deployments, emerging models and the strategic choices facing the industry.