2026 Whitepapers

AI discourse today is fragmented—predictions range from a $4.8 trillion market by 2033 to warnings that 95% of enterprise GenAI projects fail to deliver ROI. Headlines swing between existential threats and spectacular failures: Zuckerberg's demo glitches, AI mistaking potato chips for weapons, and dangerous hallucinations recommending glue on pizza.

This report cuts through the noise by focusing on what matters for network operators: traffic, not intelligence. Whether AI is simple or sophisticated, trained rather than coded, the network challenge remains consistent—supporting inputs and outputs as AI systems learn and scale.

By measuring AI through network demand rather than debating its capabilities, we build on proven traffic growth patterns. Intelligence level is irrelevant; even basic algorithms can generate traffic rivalling leading large language models. The critical question isn't AI's potential—it's capacity and performance to meet surging demand.

This analysis projects AI's network impact from a practical infrastructure perspective, providing operators with actionable insights for the AI-driven future ahead.

Gigabit broadband is the foundation for next-generation Internet and AI applications, but fiber alone isn't enough. True gigabit experiences demand comprehensive infrastructure investment—from Wi-Fi 6 or above in local networks to next-generation PON access and 400/800G core transport systems. Policymakers must move beyond basic fiber mandates to incentivize continuous network evolution.

While universal advanced fiber deployment maximizes socioeconomic impact, strategic prioritization accelerates progress. Major cities serve as critical testbeds, enabling innovation that scales nationally. This is the vision behind gigacities.

Omdia's Gigacity Index, now in its second edition, evaluates 50 cities across multiple countries and regions, measuring their readiness to deliver transformative digital experiences. As the Index expands to include more cities, it provides a vital benchmark for network operators, policymakers, and investors committed to building the infrastructure that powers tomorrow's applications. Discover which cities are leading the gigabit revolution and what it takes to join them.