The Critical Role of Device Analytics in Mobile Networks

The Critical Role of Device Analytics in Mobile Networks

In today’s digital age, mobile networks are the backbone of the burgeoning digital ecosystem, powering everything from basic communication to advanced Internet of Things (IoT) applications. As these networks become increasingly complex and saturated with devices, the importance of device analytics becomes increasingly important. Device analytics, the process of collecting and analyzing data from mobile devices, offers invaluable insights into device performance, user behavior, and network efficiency. This article delves into the multifaceted benefits of device analytics in mobile networks, underscoring its critical role in driving innovation, efficiency, and user satisfaction.

Ensuring Optimal Device Performance

One of the primary benefits of device analytics is its ability to evaluate device performance across multiple devices on the network. By analyzing data from devices connected to the network, mobile network operators can identify and address device issues potentially even before being reported by end users. This proactive approach not only ensures stable and reliable devices but also aids in improving customer satisfaction. Various metrics can be measured from devices such as RF Signal Quality and Location Accuracy (for example when locating a device for Emergency Services or Value Added Services). Many other Key Performance Indicators can be measured and tracked/reported on as well.

The chart below illustrates an example of different location accuracies measured across top deployed devices in a Mobile Network. As shown in the example below, device A would be flagged as problematic in providing an accurate location as most location results are more than 1km inaccurate.

Note this is accuracy of device locates as measured in meters.

Another example of device analytics is to measure the RF Signal Quality. The chart below illustrates an example of RF Signal Quality measured across top deployed devices in a Mobile Network. As shown in the example below, devices A and B are getting fair to excellent signal quality most of the time. However, devices C thru F are problematic in providing good RF Signal Quality to the users and getting poor signal quality much of the time.

Driving Operational efficiencies

Device analytics also offers operational benefits for mobile network operators. By automating the collection and analysis of device data, operators can reduce the time and resources required for manual network monitoring and troubleshooting. Additionally, predictive analytics can forecast future network demands based on device usage patterns, allowing operators to plan infrastructure investments more effectively.

Enhancing security measures

As mobile networks become increasingly integral to daily life, they also become more attractive targets for cyberattacks. Device analytics can bolster network security by detecting unusual device behavior that may indicate a security threat, such as malware infections or unauthorized access attempts. By identifying and mitigating these threats early, device analytics helps protect user data and maintain the integrity of mobile networks.

Device Analytics can Facilitate Advanced Network FeaTures

The advent of 5G and beyond networks has ushered in a new era of mobile connectivity, with capabilities such as ultra-low latency and massive device connectivity. Device analytics plays a crucial role in realizing these features by providing the data necessary to manage the complex dynamics of modern networks. For example, location aware device analytics can help optimize network slicing, a key 5G feature, by analyzing device demand patterns and adjusting resources accordingly to meet the needs of diverse applications, from high-definition streaming to critical IoT services.

Conclusion

As mobile networks evolve to meet the demands of a digital-first world, the role of device analytics in ensuring the devices that run on these networks are efficient, secure, and capable of delivering personalized user experiences cannot be overstated. By harnessing the power of device data, mobile network operators can not only navigate the complexities of modern telecommunications but also drive innovation that keeps them at the forefront of the industry. In the coming years, as networks continue to expand and diversify, the strategic importance of device analytics is set to grow, making it a key pillar in the future of mobile connectivity.

Wireless Network Digital Twins: Trust and Verification

By Greg Burdett

The concept of a digital twin for a Wireless Network is simple, it is a digital representation of the Wireless Network that can be used to enable better decision making. As described in the article https://www.informationweek.com/it-leadership/boost-your-business-with-digital-twin-technology#close-modal, a Digital Twin of a Wireless Network can help Wireless Operators solve issues faster by detecting them sooner, predict outcomes with a high degree of accuracy, and to design and build better Wireless networks.

However, the article described above concludes with a warning to proceed with caution when building a Digital Twin. This is because the digital twin quality is directly related to the accuracy of the information received, or in other words, garbage in, garbage out. It specifically states, “All digital twin data must be trusted and actionable or else it just becomes a lot of noise”.

This article explores the concept of how to make a Digital Twin of a Wireless Network high quality such that its’ output, which is critical for advanced decision making, is also high quality.

Making a high quality digital twin of a Wireless Network requires the following;

1. Use input data that is as close to the source as possible

2. Verify data through analytical methods

3. Report findings of potentially incorrect data for correction

Let’s explore these points in a bit more detail.

The first item, “Use input data that is as close to the source as possible” is the first step in building a high quality digital twin. Using data that has gone through many levels of conversion, modification, communication, etc. adds risk to the quality of the data. Often data is improperly relayed or converted into another form impacting the quality of the data. If a critical field is incorrectly reset to a default value, this can fundamentally change the Digital Twin representation of the Wireless Network, and more importantly impact the decision making resulting from using the Digital Twin.

The second item, “Verify data through analytical methods”, is critical. Often data can be verified through analytical techniques when multiple sources of data is used. These don’t have to be different sources of the same data, but rather different types of data that should be consistent with each other, and definitely not contradictory, when used by the Digital Twin to build a representation of the Wireless Network.

Finally the third item, “Report findings of potentially incorrect data for correction“ closes the circle to ensure a continuous improvement cycle for the Digital Twin. If the Digital Twin analytics find potentially incorrect data but does nothing to try and correct the source data, not only will the Digital Twin be left using questionable data, but the benefit of correcting the data across the entire organization will be lost. If a key setting of a network element is improperly being communicated to many downstream users this can impact Maintenance and Support, Network Planning, Network Operations, and other critical functions. This is actually one of the key outputs of the Wireless Network Digital Twin in that by detecting and correcting inconsistent data many job functions are improved, in addition to creating a very high quality Digital Twin of the Wireless Network that can be used for advanced decision making.

By implementing the above recommendations the Wireless Network Digital Twin is not just a separate tool used by a decision making or strategy group, but rather an important and critical part of the overall process of building, monitoring, and maintaining a high quality Wireless Network.

JaggedXY is a Wireless Network Digital Twin pioneer and has built a Digital Twin in use by many Mobile Network Operators. The JaggedXY Digital Twin has been built to follow the methodology described to ensure accurate Cell Site and other network data used by the JaggedXY Digital Twin.

Announcing JaggedXY’s First 5G Location Analytics Deployment

by Lindsay McLaughlin

We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone for JaggedXY as we have delivered our first-ever Location Analytics solution for deployment on the cutting-edge 5G network of a Tier 1 Mobile Network Operator.

This deployment marks a significant step forward in our mission to revolutionize Location Analytics and empower Mobile Network Operators with actionable insights. With this 5G release, we aim to improve accuracy in locating devices for Emergency Services and Commercial Services on 5G, provide comprehensive reporting to regulators, and unlock the full potential enhanced Location Analytics can enable by leveraging the precise location capabilities available on 5G.

At JaggedXY, we understand the criticality of accurate device locations for numerous applications and services. Our advanced algorithms and technologies enhance the precision and reliability of locating devices on 5G networks. Specifically, to be able to attain the accuracy possible on 5G, which in many cases is <10 meter accuracy, the Mobile Operator requires extremely accurate data both in terms of Neighbor lists and Cell geometry settings, specifically Azimuth. JaggedXY optimizes all these parameters to be able to achieve the accuracy promised with 5G as illustrated below.

JaggedXY’s Location Analytics deployment on 5G goes beyond traditional location analytics. By leveraging the rich data provided by 5G networks, our platform enables Mobile Operators to analyze and improve network coverage, quality, and efficiency. This, in turn, enhances user experience and enables the service providers to unlock the full potential of their 5G infrastructure. This includes optimizing Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) deployments and the ability to harness the power of enhanced Location Analytics and Services for various Enterprise applications such as IoT.

Should 911 Operators be replaced by AI?

By Greg Burdett

A recent article (https://studyfinds.org/911-ai-tool-stroke-victims-phone/) asks the question “Should artificial intelligence handle emergency calls from humans dialing 911?”. The study claims the AI tool proved up to 10 percent more accurate than human experts at diagnosing the signs of a stroke over the phone.

While likely meant to be controversial, the title does seem to take an extreme position of replacing vs complementing or enhancing human 911 Operators. Intuitively I knew this claim was ridiculous for what I think are pretty obvious reasons. The main concerns I personally would have are:

• Can an AI system truly understand the emergency situation I am in and who to send to provide emergency assistance?

• What about providing verbal assistance? I personally have been in a situation where I called 911 relating to a scary situation I was witnessing that seemed to be escalating and expanded to include myself when I called 911. The 911 Operator provided me with verbal assistance to help de-escalate the situation.

• What about providing a caring / comforting voice in a stressful situation? Anyone who is calling 911 is clearly in a stressful and potentially life threatening situation and may want a calm human voice to re-assure them and help calm them to deal with the situation.

• How about complex situations or emergencies where mixed messages are received? Sometimes it may not be clear to the Operator what is happening, and if it is really even an emergency. For example abuse or assault where someone may call 911 and either change their mind about reporting the incident, or may still be under threat and are afraid to say anything to the Operator and just want to hang up. A well trained Operator can look for clues as to what is really happening and make the appropriate judgement calls. It is unclear to me how an AI system would handle these types of situations.

I thought about this and wondered, how would an AI system answer the question “Should AI replace 911 Operators when answering 911 calls”, so I asked ChatGPT to write me a blog post on if AI should replace 911 Operators when answering 911 calls. This is what ChatGPT wrote:

Title: The Role of AI in Emergency Response: Should 911 Operators Be Replaced?

Introduction

In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has made remarkable strides in various sectors. The field of emergency response, including 911 call centers, is not exempt from this progress. As the concept of AI becomes more pervasive, a question arises: should AI replace human 911 operators when answering emergency calls? While there are merits to leveraging AI technology, it is essential to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision that directly affects public safety.

The Advantages of AI in Emergency Response

1. Improved Response Times: AI systems have the potential to process and analyze incoming emergency calls at a faster rate than human operators. They can rapidly extract critical information, such as location, nature of the emergency, and relevant details, enabling them to dispatch appropriate help more efficiently. This accelerated response time could potentially save lives in situations where every second counts.

2. Consistency and Accuracy: Human operators, despite their training and experience, can sometimes be subject to human error. AI, on the other hand, operates consistently and impartially, ensuring that all emergency calls receive equal attention. AI systems can accurately assess situations, eliminating the risk of subjective judgments that humans might unintentionally introduce.

3. Multilingual Capabilities: Language barriers can hinder effective communication between callers and operators, especially in diverse communities. AI technology can integrate language translation capabilities, allowing emergency calls to be answered promptly and accurately, regardless of the caller's language proficiency. This feature has the potential to save crucial time in emergencies where effective communication is critical.

The Human Touch and Limitations of AI

1. Empathy and Emotional Connection: In emergency situations, callers often experience heightened emotions and require emotional support. Human operators are trained to provide reassurance, empathy, and calmness during distressing situations. AI, although capable of detecting emotions through voice analysis, cannot replicate the nuanced understanding and compassionate response that a human operator can provide.

2. Complex Situational Judgment: Emergency calls can present intricate and nuanced situations that require human judgment, discretion, and decision-making. Humans possess the ability to assess subtle cues, ask clarifying questions, and adapt to unique scenarios. AI, as advanced as it may be, still struggles with context-dependent decision-making, and its responses might not always align with the complexity of the situation at hand.

3. Unpredictable Circumstances: Emergency calls can be unpredictable, and the information provided by callers may vary in accuracy and clarity. Humans possess the ability to adapt, think critically, and extract relevant details in ambiguous situations. AI, though efficient in processing data, may encounter challenges when faced with incomplete or conflicting information, potentially leading to suboptimal emergency responses.

Finding a Balance

Rather than replacing human 911 operators entirely, a more prudent approach might involve integrating AI technology to enhance their capabilities. By leveraging AI as a supportive tool, operators can benefit from its real-time information analysis, translation services, and data management, allowing them to focus more on empathetic communication and critical decision-making.

Additionally, ongoing investment in training programs for 911 operators can ensure that they remain up-to-date with the latest technological advancements. This approach would empower operators to better utilize AI tools while retaining their invaluable skills in emotional support, judgment, and adaptability.

Conclusion

While AI has the potential to enhance emergency response systems, completely replacing human 911 operators with AI technology raises significant concerns regarding the emotional and empathetic aspects of emergency calls, complex situational judgment, and adaptability in unpredictable circumstances. Striking the right balance between AI and human involvement seems to be the most promising path forward, allowing operators to harness the benefits of AI while maintaining the critical human touch that is essential in emergency response. Ultimately, the goal should always be to prioritize public safety, ensuring that every emergency call receives the most efficient and compassionate response possible.

JaggedXY 4.0 Generally Available for Deployment

JaggedXY 4.0 is now Generally Available and deployed at major Mobile Network Operators globally. This release is an important milestone in the evolution of the JaggedXY Location Analytics Platform. It specifically provides a fully Carrier Grade and scalable solution that is deployable in the largest Mobile Network Operator Networks to enhance their Location Quality and Accuracy for 4G and 5G networks. Many new features and enhancements have been added as described in the link above to support advanced Operations processes and enhanced capabilities required to meet stringent accuracy requirements for Emergency Services, Lawful Intercept and Precise Location Based Services.

Ensuring acceptable FWA service quality

As described in the article https://www.telecomtv.com/content/access-evolution/5g-fwa-is-on-the-rise-but-could-lead-to-network-resource-issues-report-47063/, 5G FWA is on the rise but could lead to network resource issues. This reality is mocked in a recent commercial claiming cell phones going by a house with FWA can negatively impact FWA service quality - see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gYOqQPxznE. While exaggerating the issue somewhat, this commercial does illustrate the concern with sharing valuable spectrum between mobile devices and FWA deployments. This concern is more real if there are multiple FWA deployments within the same cell site.

The report specifically recommends that operators use artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled monitoring and management tools to assess their network resources, capacity and spectrum to ensure a steady 5G FWA growth.

JaggedXY provides a solution to address these concerns. Specific capabilities the JaggedXY FWA Deployment Planning and Performance Monitoring solution supports are:  

FWA Prequalification Tool: Determines if a subscriber is eligible for FWA service based on their home location as compared to observed coverage applicable to FWA.

FWA Deployment Manager: Finds the best regions/neighborhoods to target FWA deployments to based on observed coverage of target frequencies and mobile subscriber base. 

FWA Visualization & Analytics: Displays all current deployed FWA systems on a map and their cell site association and provides analytics based on cell sites they are deployed off. 

FWA Performance Dashboard: Tracks the historical performance of deployed FWA systems in a simple to use Dashboard. 

To find out more information on these FWA capabilities or to talk with a JaggedXY representative contact us at info@jaggedxy.com.

JaggedXY Awarded Location Analytics Contract in Asia Pacific

JaggedXY has been awarded a contract to install a Location Analytics Solution for deployment in the Asia Pacific region. This deployment advances the company's drive to be the world's preferred Location Analytics provider for Mobile Network Operators. This will be the first deployment outside of North America where JaggedXY is used by Tier 1 Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) as well as a number of smaller MNOs.

The solution to be deployed will enhance Emergency Services capabilities primarily by enabling more accurate locations to be provided for people calling for help in Emergency situations.

JaggedXY consolidates multiple silos of real-world and configuration data into one powerful advanced analytics engine providing unrivalled abilities to deliver new insights into the mobile network and its users. JaggedXY optimizes network settings to improve location accuracy for 4G/5G networks, creates regulatory and performance reports, can save lives and make our world more secure.

As MNOs continue to enable services on 5G networks, JaggedXY’s solution will play a critical role in providing advanced Location Analytics necessary for the emerging 5G ecosystem. This includes the ability for MNOs to sustainably grow service revenue for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). JaggedXY supports the deployment of FWA from prequalification through deployment and ongoing performance monitoring of the deployed FWA systems.

To find out more about JaggedXY’s Location Analytics solutions for Mobile Operators contact us at info@jaggedxy.com.

Emergency Services Everywhere

The era of Emergency Services Everywhere

For those people old enough to remember traveling without a mobile phone, you may remember occasionally calling family collect from a pay phone to let them know you were okay and where you were. Otherwise, you were literally off the grid, and no one could get hold of you or know if you were ok except when you called home. This would be especially true for the backpacker set or international traveller moving frequently between cities and Countries. Since this was the norm and had been literally forever, no one thought twice about the risks associated with traveling, especially alone, without having a lifeline for people to reach you, or more importantly for you to easily reach others or Emergency Services if needed.

This all changed when mobile phones became pervasive over the last 20+ years. Now it is virtually unheard of to travel without your mobile. Roaming fees aside, it is technically easy to keep in touch with friends and family at the touch of a button. In case of an emergency help can be reached from the mobile, so long as you are in an area of cellular coverage.

Today most people don’t think twice about going on a road trip where there is no Cellular coverage, let alone a hike or canoeing trip outside of coverage zones. It is the risk associated with taking such an endeavour that you may not be in a Cellular Coverage area all the time and if you need to reach anyone, including help in case of an Emergency, would require getting back inside a Cellular coverage zone.

We are now at an inflection point where cellular coverage will largely become irrelevant to be able to get help in times of trouble. This is beginning to change given the recent announcements and launches by Apple and Google adding the ability to contact Emergency Services over Satellite as described in the referenced articles below. Once you own a mobile that supports this capability, Emergency Services can be contacted if you are in an accident on a rural road with no Cellular coverage, or if you have a medical emergency when on a canoeing, hiking, or camping trip in the woods.

Given the importance to society and benefit to everyone it makes sense to make this a mandatory service to be offered for any device that supports satellite connectivity. It is literally a win-win-win for everyone – the Cellular Carriers can position this as a value-added capability their devices support, the device vendors that support satellite connectivity benefit by becoming a preferred device by consumers, and society benefits by being able to reach Emergency Services no matter where they may be, regardless of Cellular coverage.

Let’s hope sometime in the not too distant future no one has to worry about their ability to be able to contact Emergency Services if something bad were to happen when on a road trip, hiking or camping trip given these capabilities being introduced now.   

References:

https://support.apple.com/en-ca/HT213426

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/01/qualcomm-says-it-built-a-better-satellite-messaging-system-than-apple/