Colombia assessing use cases for AI in spectrum management

Colombian national spectrum agency ANE is assessing 15 proposals submitted by its experts as part of a project to apply artificial intelligence in frequency band management.

The projects focus on frequency planning and assignment, technical analysis, and spectrum monitoring and control, the entity said on social media.

However, ANE did not provide details of the fields in which AI could be applied.

In recent months, the potential for the use of AI-driven solutions for spectrum practices has become an active topic among experts and telecom regulators.

Watchdogs in the US (FCC) and UK (Ofcom) launched studies and or/calls in 2023 around AI and other technologies in managing use of spectrum. 

The FCC in particular is assessing whether AI techniques might assist in balancing spectrum between government and non-government use. 

Among the possibilities being looked into is AI support in the shared use of spectrum or for dynamic access to spectrum – meaning devices that use spectrum in a given location when those frequencies are not required by incumbent services.

"Leveraging AI technology capabilities to improve dynamic and/or opportunistic spectrum access could transform how spectrum is shared, and may allow regulators to avoid making complex choices between competing uses in some frequency bands," consultancy Analysys Mason said in a January report on the topic.

Despite that, Analysys cited "practical, technical and commercial challenges" related to it.

REGULATION

In parallel to the internal project, ANE is engaged in discussions on an AI framework in Colombia.

In August, the agency participated in Colombian congress’ launch of a special commission on artificial intelligence bills.

The commission was created to unify criteria and build consensus around the different bills related to AI that are being debated in congress.

ANE said at the time it seeks to “actively collaborate in the creation of a solid legislative framework that guides technological advancement, underlining the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the formulation of laws that address both the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.”