Microsoft has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Korea’s largest mobile operator SK Telecom for the digital transformation of the telecom industry.
In February this year, the companies collaborated for promotion of smart factory IoT business operations. As part of this, Azure was launched with Metatron, a self-developed big data solution by SK Telecom. Now, they will also upgrade this service and build marketing strategies together.
As part of the newly signed MoU, the companies will bring together their expertise in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud to jointly promote information and communication technology (ICT) business. This business includes the internet of things (IoT), AI technologies and services, media and entertainment services.
Microsoft will integrate the capabilities of SK Telcom’s AI platform called NUGU into its digital assistant Cortana. The aim of this integration is to provide new AI-based products and services, like smart speakers and other enterprise solutions.
“Through the strategic partnership with SK Telecom, we will play a key role in shaping the future and accelerating the digital transformation of the telecommunications industry with our world-class network and technology,” said Jason Zander, executive vice president, Azure, Microsoft.
“This will be a deep and multifaceted partnership that strengthens the power of cloud and AI to deliver innovative new services to customers.”
SK Telecom is going to use Microsoft 365 for building a modern workplace and empower its employees. Further, the company will expand the adoption of Microsoft 365 to other ICT companies that come under the SK Group Umbrella.
Additionally, Microsoft mentioned that it will combine its modern workplace devices and solutions like Surface and Office 365 with SK Telecom’s products and services. This move is aimed to offer new value to customers.
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“SK Telecom is pleased to join hands with Microsoft as collaboration with global leading companies like Microsoft is essential to gain leadership in the 5G market, where competition is already fierce,” said Park Jung-ho, President and CEO of SK Telecom.
“SK Telecom will work closely with Microsoft to create an unprecedented value by combining the strengths and capabilities of the two companies.”
