Vodafone Idea and IBM Launch AI Innovation Hub to Transform Telecom Operations and Accelerate Digital Delivery

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has made a strategic collaboration with IBM to revolutionize its telecom operations through artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Vi’s digital transformation journey, aimed at streamlining operations, enhancing service reliability, and accelerating the delivery of next-generation digital services.

AI Innovation Hub: The Core of the Transformation

At the heart of this initiative is the newly launched AI Innovation Hub, a joint endeavor between Vi and IBM Consulting. The Hub is designed to continuously modernize Vi’s IT and business processes by co-creating:

• AI-powered automation tools
• Digital accelerators for faster service deployment
• Advanced DevOps solutions infused with AI

The Innovation Hub will serve as a collaborative space where experts from both organizations will develop and deploy cutting-edge technologies to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.

Unified DevOps Execution Model

Vi is also implementing a unified DevOps execution model, powered by automation and AI. This model aims to:

• Accelerate software development cycles
• Improve service reliability and uptime
• Enhance agility across IT and network operations

By integrating AI into its DevOps workflows, Vi seeks to create a more responsive and resilient digital infrastructure—critical for supporting India’s rapidly evolving telecom landscape and the rollout of 5G services.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer at Vi, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership:

This marks a pivotal milestone in Vi’s digital journey. The AI Innovation Hub will set new benchmarks for the telecom industry and help us deliver superior customer experiences.

Juhi McClelland, Managing Partner of IBM Consulting, Asia Pacific, added:

Vi’s AI Innovation Hub is a testament to the power of co-creation. Together, we’re building a future-ready digital foundation that leverages IBM’s industry-leading AI capabilities.

Long-Term Vision

The collaboration builds on a 17-year relationship between Vi and IBM, now evolving into a managed services model focused on AI, automation, and digital resilience. The initiative aligns with broader industry trends, as telecom providers increasingly adopt AI to manage surging data volumes, optimize networks, and personalize customer engagement.

Industry Context

India’s telecom sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by rising data consumption, 5G deployment, and digital inclusion efforts. Strategic partnerships like Vi–IBM are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of telecom innovation.