NTT DATA and Schneider Electric have announced a groundbreaking co-innovation. This partnership enables enterprises to leverage the capabilities of Edge computing effectively. The collaboration introduces an integrated solution that combines Edge, Private 5G, IoT, and Modular Data Centres, offering unparalleled connectivity and supporting the computational needs of Generative AI applications at the Edge.
The combined solution integrates NTT DATA’s Edge as a Service, which includes fully managed Edge to Cloud, Private 5G, and IoT capabilities, with Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure, a modular data centre solution that blends OT solutions with the latest IT technologies. This synergy allows companies to optimise energy efficiency and address the computational demands of Edge-based tasks such as machine vision, predictive maintenance, and AI inferencing applications.
Shahid Ahmed, EVP New Ventures and Innovation at NTT Ltd., expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We’ve listened to our customers and recognise that processing the vast amount of data generated by Edge devices represents the future of digital transformation. We are excited to introduce a solution that meets these challenges and to lead the journey towards a more connected and efficient digital world. Our continued collaboration with Schneider Electric is poised to benefit the industrial sector and beyond.”
This collaboration enables the deployment of complete solutions for digital transformation in remote and brownfield sites, where high computational demands require critical infrastructure such as power, cooling, racks, and specialised IoT and AI management systems.
The partnership aims to address the needs of joint customers, responding to the increasing demand from organisations looking to utilise Edge computing for automation and data-driven decision-making. According to NTT DATA’s Edge Advantage report, nearly 70% of enterprises are accelerating Edge adoption to tackle critical business challenges.
In a significant development, NTT DATA and Schneider Electric have implemented the first Private 5G-enabled deployment of an EcoStruxure Data Centre at Marienpark Berlin, a historic site being transformed into a leading innovation park. Spanning over 30 hectares, the site aims to provide enhanced connectivity and computing experiences for users.
Guido Schütte, Managing Director of Marienpark Berlin, highlighted the importance of technological infrastructure in innovation ecosystems, stating: “Today’s innovation ecosystems in Marienpark increasingly rely on specific technological infrastructures. We need an innovative environment with such infrastructure to meet future demands of our community.”
Initially, NTT DATA and Schneider Electric co-innovated at Schneider Electric’s Lexington Smart Factory, showcasing the potential of Private 5G, IoT connectivity, Edge analytics, and predictive analytics to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.
Rob McKernan, President, Cloud & Service Provider Segment at Schneider Electric, emphasised the goal of expanding collaboration to assist global clients in adopting connected devices, specialised industrial solutions, and the right Edge computing infrastructure to gain valuable data insights, especially in the IoT and emerging AI contexts.
The collaboration aims to overcome the challenges of Industry 4.0 applications, ensuring seamless connectivity, high bandwidth, and secure, low-latency connections through Edge data centres.
Camille Mendler, Chief Analyst, Enterprise Services at Omdia, commented on the importance of real-time, data-driven intelligence for Industry 4.0, predicting that AI-enriched data will dominate digital interactions by 2030. Enterprises must invest in Edge digital resources and the technology infrastructure to harness AI insights effectively.
The innovations resulting from this partnership will be showcased at the Mobile World Congress on 26th February between 13:00 and 14:00 at the NTT DATA booth in Hall 4 – Stand 4A20.
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