SET-listed Advanced Info Service (AIS) has partnered with Microsoft Thailand on 5G-driven cloud innovation as part of its strategy to capitalise on burgeoning demand in the segment, driven by a push for digital transformation by enterprises.
The full-scale partnership was announced by both companies in a statement yesterday.
"With many organisations increasing their focus on digital strategies for the future, Thailand as a country has a huge opportunity for cloud-based innovations," said Jean-Philippe Courtois, executive vice-president and president of global sales, marketing and operations at Microsoft.
"Our strategic partnership with AIS will help the country realise its full potential by combining Thailand's best network and connectivity capabilities with world-class, trusted Microsoft cloud to bring each organisation's digital ambitions to life."
AIS chief executive Somchai Lertsutiwong said cooperation will help drive digital transformation in every industry and allow corporate management to effectively deal with a changing world.
"I am confident that Microsoft's world-class cloud technology, when integrated with the best AIS 5G and AIS Fibre networks, will produce new kinds of services for Thai corporations at reasonable costs and be the foundation that allows smart tech such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to be rapidly deployed in new business models."
Three initiatives have been planned as part of the joint venture, according to the statement.
The first concerns a willingness of both companies to cooperate to stimulate demand for solutions and services across the cloud, data, cybersecurity, and Internet of Things (IoT), which is projected to support the growth of organisations of all sizes and contribute to the growing digital economy in Thailand.
The second involves advancing digital skills in which AIS, supported by Microsoft's expertise and resources, will enable its staff to effectively use technology.
Moreover, AIS staff will be able to obtain cloud technology-related certificates following learning sessions. Hackathons will also be organised to bring out ideas that could turn into services for AIS customers. AIS also aims to share deep technical knowledge with its customers.
The final agreement involves the offering of digital solutions backed by 5G, cloud, AI and IoT technologies to business operators.
Advanced data analytics services and 5G technology can handle various tasks such as robotics in medical services, smart manufacturing, smart buildings, retail, transportation and logistics.
The services are meant to broaden AIS's digital ecosystem to cover more businesses and support businesses through solutions in both ready-made and customised products.