NTT DATA and Schneider Electric have unveiled a first-of-a-kind co-innovation that empowers enterprises to harness the power of edge computing. Particularly, the strategic partnership introduces a unique solution that seamlessly integrates Edge, Private 5G, IOT, and Modular Data Centers. Thus, providing unparalleled connectivity and supporting the computational demands of Generative AI applications deployed at the edge.

The joint offering combines the strengths of the two companies. Particularly, 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 center. This powerful combination enables companies to maximize energy efficiency and meet the demands of compute-intensive tasks. Specifically, machine vision, predictive maintenance, and other AI inferencing applications at the edge.

“We’ve listened to our customers and know that processing vast amounts of data generated by edge devices is where the future of digital transformation lies,” said Shahid Ahmed, EVP New Ventures, and Innovation at NTT Ltd.

Furthermore, customers can now implement a complete solution, including edge data centers tailored for digital transformation in remote and brownfield locations. Here, high compute demands critical infrastructure, such as power, cooling, racks, and specialized IoT and AI management systems.

Reinforce Automation, Data-Driven Processes

The companies will go to market to address joint customer requirements to meet the growing demand from organizations. Especially, those who are looking to leverage edge compute to support automation and enable data-driven decision making. Accordingly, NTT DATA’s Edge Advantage report nearly 70% of enterprises are accelerating edge adoption to solve critical business challenges.

With today’s news, NTT DATA and Schneider Electric announced they are delivering the first Private 5G-enabled deployment of an EcoStruxure Data Center at Marienpark Berlin. The historic site will be developed into a leading innovation park. The area spans over 30-hectare, equivalent to 74 acres, and will focus on delivering enhanced connectivity and compute experiences for users across the campus.

“Today’s innovation ecosystems in Marienpark increasingly depend on specific technological infrastructures. Easy-to-access computational power combined with advanced connectivity are a key issue. We need an innovative environment with such an infrastructure to satisfy future user demands of our community,” said Guido Schütte, Managing Director, Marienpark Berlin.

NTT DATA and Schneider Electric initially co-innovated to test the power of Private 5G at Schneider Electric’s Lexington Smart Factory. Accordingly, this is the first of Schneider Electric’s U.S. plants to become a Smart Factory showcase site. Moreover, it leverages on Private 5G, IoT connectivity, edge analytics, and predictive analytics to drive energy efficiency and further sustainability goals.

Meanwhile, Rob McKernan, President, Cloud & Service Provider Segment at Schneider Electric said the collaboration aims to assist customers get the right edge computing infrastructure specialized for industrial solutions.

Addresses Industry 4.0 Challenges

The collaboration addresses the challenges brought on by industry 4.0 applications, ensuring seamless connectivity, high bandwidth, and secure low latency connections through Edge data centers.

“Industry 4.0 relies on actionable, data-driven intelligence delivered in real time whether that be in a factory, an industrial park, an airport, or an office campus,“ said Camille Mendler, Chief Analyst, Enterprise Services, Omdia.

Moreover, Mendler said, “AI-enriched data already accounts for a third of enterprise network traffic, but it will dominate digital interactions by 2030. To profit from AI insights, enterprises must invest in digital resources at the edge, and the technology infrastructure that powers it, now.”