Claro pushes AI development with US$200mn fiber optics investment

This is an automated translation of the original release published in Spanish. 

From Claro Colombia

Cartagena, September 5, 2024. Claro Colombia announces a historic investment of more than US$200 million to strengthen its fiber optic network, consolidating the infrastructure that is key to the development and adoption of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence. This project, presented within the framework of Andicom, will not only improve the experience of more than 1.5 million homes, but will also lay the foundations for a robust technological ecosystem in the country.

“With this investment, we are modernizing our network and creating the foundation on which artificial intelligence can be strengthened in Colombia,” said Rodrigo de Gusmao, President of Claro Colombia, who added that “the infrastructure we are developing is essential for vertical AI solutions – from telemedicine to industrial automation – to be deployed effectively, benefiting both companies and citizens.”

Optical fiber is the backbone of robust and efficient connectivity. This massive deployment will enable data transmission at unprecedented speeds, an essential requirement for AI applications that require processing large volumes of information in real time. From predictive analysis in agriculture to the personalization of educational and health services, AI can transform key sectors of the Colombian economy, and this transformation begins with first-class infrastructure.

“AI adoption in Colombia has the potential to increase the country’s GDP by up to 10% over the next 15 years. This investment is the first step to ensure that the country is prepared to take advantage of this opportunity,” added De Gusmao.

Claro's commitment is not limited to urban areas. This investment also includes strengthening infrastructure in rural areas, helping to close the digital divide and making AI an accessible tool for everyone. High-speed connectivity means more than internet access, it is opportunities for education, remote work and digital inclusion, fundamental elements for social and economic development.

“Our infrastructure will not only connect Colombians with each other, but also with the future. By promoting the adoption of AI, we are creating the conditions for sustainable and equitable economic growth throughout the country,” concluded the President of Claro Colombia.

About Claro Colombia :

Claro is the mobile telecommunications operator with the largest coverage in Colombia. It provides its 2G, 3G and 4G signal to 1,102 municipalities in the country with a network of more than 10,003 towers, 5G service in six cities and has more than 37 million users who have chosen it as their mobile voice and data services operator. It also offers fixed telephone services, broadband Internet and closed television to more than 3 million homes.

About America Movil:

América Móvil is the leading company in integrated telecommunications services in Latin America. The deployment of its world-class communications platform allows it to offer its customers a portfolio of value-added services and enhanced communication solutions in 22 countries in the Americas and Europe. As of June 30, 2024, the company had 388,363 thousand access lines, including 313,995 thousand mobile subscribers and 74,368 thousand fixed-line accesses. Learn more at www.americamovil.com.