AI Radar: Telecom Sector Expected to Reach US$1.1 Trillion by 2030 and Apple Renews iPads with Focus on AI

The combination of the Internet and artificial intelligence (AI) is creating a true revolution in the global technological and economic landscape. Every day, we see new developments that confirm this trend. The last 24 hours have been particularly intense in terms of news, with important announcements regarding the telecommunications market, Apple launches and advances in regulation.

The AI-Driven Telecom Boom

One of the most significant highlights comes from the telecommunications sector. According to a new study by GSMA (global association of operators), the combination of internet and AI should significantly boost global business in the coming years. According to the survey, in 2024, the sector already accounts for an impressive 5.8% of global GDP, generating US$$ 6.5 trillion. The forecast is that by 2030, this share will jump to 8.4%, which would represent around US$$ 11 trillion.

This growth is no coincidence. The demand for connectivity combined with artificial intelligence will come mainly from the industrial sector, with the advancement of private networks, the use of sensors, cameras, drones, robots and automated equipment. We are talking about an unprecedented leap in productivity.

In my work with technology startups, I have noticed a growing movement of entrepreneurs seeking opportunities at the intersection of telecommunications and AI. And it is no wonder: the numbers show that this is a path with enormous potential.

Apple and the Strategic Move with AI-Powered iPads

Another significant move in the last few hours came from Apple, which announced its new line of iPads. The highlight is the iPad Air equipped with the M3 chip, specially designed to support AI applications. According to the announcement, the new models offer up to twice the performance compared to the previous generation with M1 chip.

In Brazil, prices range from R$4,499 for the basic model with A16 chip to R$15,999 for the most advanced versions. It's a considerable investment, but it shows how much Apple is betting on AI as a competitive differentiator for its devices.

This brings us to an interesting point: even with all its market strength, Apple is having a hard time hiring AI talent. According to a report by InfoMoney, the company plans to hire 20,000 employees in the coming years, but is encountering barriers due to a shortage of qualified professionals, especially in areas such as research and development, silicon engineering and AI.

This scenario reinforces something I have been saying for years: we need to accelerate the training of technology talent in Brazil. The demand for qualified AI professionals is only set to increase, and those who prepare now will be in a privileged position in the market.

The Regulatory Race: 2025 Will Be Decisive for AI in Brazil

As companies move quickly, the regulatory landscape struggles to keep pace. According to Valor Econômico, 2025 promises to be a decisive year for AI regulation in Brazil. Bill No. 2,338/2023, which proposes the AI Legal Framework and is currently being processed in the Chamber of Deputies, will be a key piece in this discussion.

One of the central questions of the debate is: how to reconcile copyright protection with the development of AI? This is a critical point that will need to be carefully evaluated, involving the technical community in the regulatory construction process.

I have been following these discussions closely, and I realize that we are at a delicate moment. On the one hand, we need clear rules that protect rights and prevent abuse. On the other, we cannot stifle innovation with excessive regulations. Balance is essential.

The Risks of Unchecked AI: Lessons from the US

Speaking of regulation, a recent case in the United States shows the risks of irresponsible use of AI. According to the Legal Consultant, American courts are implementing fines for lawyers who cite non-existent AI-generated precedents in their briefs.

One example is the case involving Morgan & Morgan, where three lawyers were fined between $1,000 and $3,000 for citing eight false precedents in a lawsuit against Walmart. The message is clear: AI can bring efficiency, but the ultimate responsibility lies with humans.

This case brings up an important reflection for any professional or company using AI tools: it is essential to maintain human control and careful verification of what is produced by these technologies. In my mentoring for startups, I always reinforce that AI should be an ally, never a substitute for human judgment.

The Third Wave of AI: Artificial Intelligence Agents

During the Mobile World Congress (MWC), one of the most discussed topics was what is being called the “third wave of AI”: artificial intelligence agents. According to Meio & Mensagem, one of the event's summits was entirely dedicated to artificial intelligence, exploring the transformative journey of generative AI in businesses.

These AI agents represent a significant advancement over current tools. Instead of simply responding to specific commands, they can act more autonomously, performing complex tasks with less human intervention. This is a step beyond the generative AI we know today.

The interest in this new phase is enormous, but it also brings challenges for organizations, especially in data integration and adapting work processes. Telecommunications companies, in particular, are facing a transformational journey to incorporate these technologies.

The Global Competition: Chinese Smartphones and Google AI

Another interesting movement observed in the last few hours was the strategy of Chinese smartphone manufacturers, such as Xiaomi, Honor and Oppo, who are betting on Google's AI to compete globally. According to O Cafezinho, during MWC Barcelona 2025, these companies presented devices with AI capabilities developed in partnership with Google.

Highlighted features include “AI erasers” to remove unwanted objects in photos and more capable virtual assistants. Gemini’s integration with Chinese smartphones enables advanced features that put these devices in a position to compete with the major players in the market.

This trend shows how AI is becoming a key competitive differentiator in the smartphone market. It’s no longer enough to have powerful hardware – software intelligence is what truly sets a premium device apart today.

Steve Wozniak's Warning: Ethics and Transparency in AI

To conclude this overview, I could not fail to mention the warning made by Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple. According to Hardware.com.br, during the Mobile World Congress 2025, Wozniak argued that AI should be used in a clearer and more ethical way.

In his speech, he expressed concern about the lack of transparency regarding AI-generated content, which could undermine the reliability of information. He also highlighted the risks of the technology when used for malicious purposes.

Wozniak’s position reinforces something I have consistently argued: we need strong ethical principles to guide the development and use of AI. Transparency, accountability, and prioritizing human well-being must be at the heart of this technological advancement.

What Can We Expect?

Looking at all these developments over the past 24 hours, it is clear that we are in a moment of acceleration in the AI ecosystem. The exponential growth expected in the telecommunications sector, new devices with advanced AI capabilities, regulatory advances and ethical warnings form a complete picture of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

For entrepreneurs and innovation leaders, it’s time to seriously consider how AI can be integrated into business strategies. Not as a technological fad, but as a fundamental tool to gain efficiency, create new products and services, and stay competitive.

At the same time, it is essential to invest in training and attracting talent specialized in AI. As we have seen in the case of Apple, even the largest companies in the world are struggling in this regard. Whoever can train and retain these professionals will have a significant competitive advantage.

In my mentoring programs for startups, I have increasingly focused on AI training and the responsible incorporation of these technologies into business models. The window of opportunity is open, but we need to act strategically and responsibly.

The AI radar will remain active, and I will be closely monitoring upcoming developments to share insights here that can help you navigate this ever-evolving landscape.