The project team meticulously crafted an award submission that showcased how the project is revolutionising network capabilities through cutting-edge AI applications, setting new standards for efficiency and performance in the sector.
Realising Enabling Architectures and Solutions for Open Networks (REASON) is the UK's 6G flagship project, supported by a £12M DSIT grant. Led by the University of Bristol, it unites a diverse telecommunication R&D ecosystem, including major vendors, service providers, top universities, and startups, to research and develop technologies for future open communication networks. REASON leverages strong academic-industry collaboration to pioneer ‘intelligent-by-design’ end-to-end network solutions, featuring AI integration, network monitoring, multi-access convergence, infrastructure analytics, connectivity-compute convergence, and a strong emphasis on security and sustainability.
Competing in various categories alongside some of the biggest names in AI —including DeepMind, The Alan Turing Institute, and Cisco—this award validates the hard work, dedication, and visionary leadership behind REASON. It also underscores the critical role that AI is playing in shaping the future of telecommunications.
Winning this award not only shines a spotlight on our project but also aligns with Bristol University’s strategic objectives, further solidifying the partnership and innovation emerging from this collaboration. This recognition has positioned REASON as a leader in the rapidly evolving AI and telecom landscape, we are immensely proud of this achievement and look forward to continuing our work at the forefront of AI and telecommunications.
Professor Dimitra Simeonidou, Director of the Smart Internet Lab, said: “AI will revolutionise future networks design, operations and service delivery.
"The DSIT funded REASON project is pioneering AI solutions for future networks and particularly 6G.
"Working in partnership across academia and industry we have demonstrated considerable leadership in the field.
"We are delighted and honoured that this leadership has been recognised with this National AI Award”
Recently Bristol emerged as the fifth most AI-ready city in the UK, according to the SAS AI Cities Index 2024, which annually reveals the cities that are most likely to benefit from the growing appetite for AI.
The National AI Awards was launched to spotlight the remarkable advances and contributions in the field of artificial intelligence. Their mission is to honour the brilliant minds and innovative companies driving AI technology forward, making a profound impact across private and public sectors.