NEWS · COMPANIES · #855
AT&T automates operations with AI, cuts jobs and retires copper network
AT&T is accelerating workforce reductions while automating internal processes with AI—using tools like a generative system called GeoModeler for network adjustments and deploying DriveNets cloud software to replace hardware at thousands of central hubs starting next year. The company is also retiring much of its copper landline/DSL network (saving energy) as it refocuses on fiber and wireless; a source said AT&T could target about 85,000 employees by 2030 if cuts continue, a figure the company disputed.
KEY POINTS
- AT&T is accelerating workforce reductions while automating internal processes with AI—using tools like a generative system called GeoModeler for network adjustments and deploying DriveNets cloud software to replace hardware at thousands of central hubs starting next year.
- The company is also retiring much of its copper landline/DSL network (saving energy) as it refocuses on fiber and wireless; a source said AT&T could target about 85,000 employees by 2030 if cuts continue, a figure the company disputed.
- It illustrates how a major legacy telecom is using AI and cloud networking to cut costs and reshape infrastructure, with broad implications for jobs, energy use, and competitive dynamics.
WHY IT MATTERS
It illustrates how a major legacy telecom is using AI and cloud networking to cut costs and reshape infrastructure, with broad implications for jobs, energy use, and competitive dynamics.