TOKYO, JAPAN, March 2, 2026 — NTT DOCOMO, INC. and NTT, Inc. have achieved a significant milestone in low-latency AI video analysis through the use of In-Network Computing (INC) paired with INC Edge, a technology that links remotely distributed GPU resources with 5G networks via the IOWN APN. This notable demonstration, conducted on the 5G core network, showcased AI inference management directly from the network, allowing video data transmitted from devices to be analyzed with minimal delay by utilizing these remote GPU resources.
The successful results of this initiative will be presented at MWC Barcelona 2026, marking a further step in the companies’ ongoing efforts to test and standardize INC technology. Their aim is to facilitate the widespread adoption of simplified devices, which could enable AI and robotics to reach their full potential in the anticipated 6G era. This undertaking is pivotal as it aligns with global trends towards enhanced connectivity and smarter technologies.
The INC Edge functions as an edge solution within the 5G core network, integrating the 5G infrastructure with IOWN APN and enabling network-controlled AI inference. It comprises a DPU-offloaded distributed User Plane Function (dUPF) and an AI Proxy, which is designed to segment AI inference into pre-processing and execution phases. This architecture allows for the efficient transfer of pre-processed data to remote GPU resources, enabling distributed inference with high stability and low latency.
IOWN, or Innovative Optical and Wireless Network, is an optical network infrastructure designed to support ultra-low latency, high bandwidth, and low power consumption. By connecting distributed remote GPU resources to the 5G network, IOWN APN enhances the overall performance of AI applications, making this demonstration particularly noteworthy.
The completed demonstration adhered to specified latency thresholds under defined conditions, such as the distance between collaborative robots and humans, as well as the speed at which humans move. These standards comply with ISO/TS 15066, which outlines safety requirements for collaborative robotics, underscoring the initiative’s commitment to safety and reliability in advanced technology scenarios.
NTT DOCOMO, recognized as Japan’s leading mobile operator with over 91 million subscribers, continues to be a global leader in 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies. With the slogan “Bridging Worlds for Wonder & Happiness,” the company is actively pursuing collaborations with global partners to broaden its offerings beyond mobile services, seeking to provide comprehensive solutions that enhance technological advancement and positively impact society.
NTT, the parent company of DOCOMO, is dedicated to fostering a sustainable society through innovation. As a global technology leader, NTT provides a wide range of services encompassing mobile operations, infrastructure, networks, applications, and consulting. With over $90 billion in revenue and a workforce of 340,000, the company invests a notable 30% of its profits annually into fundamental research and development. Its extensive operations span more than 70 countries, servicing clients in over 190 locations, including 75% of Fortune Global 100 companies.
The developments in AI video analysis and In-Network Computing could represent a transformative shift in how networks handle data processing and AI applications, particularly as the industry progresses towards 6G. As NTT DOCOMO and NTT continue to refine their technologies, the implications for sectors such as robotics, smart cities, and autonomous systems could be profound, advancing the possibilities of real-time AI interaction and collaboration.
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