Recently, Australian telecommunications company Telstra and tech giant Microsoft announced an expansion of their strategic partnership, marking a significant milestone in Australian AI innovation. The two companies will combine Microsoft's leading AI technologies with Telstra's ultra-fast intercity fiber optic network project to drive digital transformation and support the development of Australia's AI ecosystem.
Image Source Note: Image generated by AI, provided by Midjourney
Under the new agreement, Microsoft has selected Telstra as its strategic partner for expanding AI infrastructure in Australia. Telstra's new intercity fiber optic network will serve as the infrastructure backbone for Microsoft in Australia, with Microsoft having signed a contract for the first fiber network and collaborating with Telstra InfraCo to enhance nationwide connectivity solutions and further drive the growth of AI capabilities.
Notably, Telstra will also invest in 21,000 Microsoft365 Copilot licenses to help employees adapt and thrive in this AI-driven future, making Telstra one of the largest generative AI service deployment companies in Australia.
Telstra CEO Vicki Brady highlighted the importance of robust connectivity infrastructure in driving AI advancements. "As we move towards a new era of AI, connectivity becomes paramount. Whether it's generative AI tools or other applications, all technologies rely on secure and reliable connectivity foundations," she said.
Judson Althoff, Microsoft's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, also expressed that the partnership with Telstra demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to advancing AI transformation in a responsible and secure manner. "By expanding our AI infrastructure, we can continue to support our customers and partners, helping them uncover new opportunities and realize the business value brought by AI."
To meet the demands of AI technology for fast, reliable, secure, and scalable connectivity, Telstra is investing in its intercity fiber networks. These networks will connect Australia and the globe, ensuring that Microsoft's AI infrastructure can operate effectively.
Telstra plans to gradually roll out Copilot to regular Microsoft365 users after consulting with employees and unions. Following a successful pilot with 300 early adopters, most users reported that Copilot saved them 1 to 2 hours per week and enhanced their work experience.
"We are committed to providing our employees with the best AI technology and cultivating their capabilities in the future work environment," Brady said.
This expanded partnership builds on the five-year strategic agreement between Telstra and Microsoft signed in July 2022, aimed at jointly supporting Australia's digital growth.
Key Points:
🌟 Telstra and Microsoft expand cooperation to drive the development of Australia's AI ecosystem.
🚀 Telstra invests in 21,000 Copilot licenses to help employees adapt and grow in the AI era.
🔗 The new intercity fiber network will provide fast and reliable connectivity to meet the needs of AI technology.