Nokia Focuses on AI

Nokia is intensifying its focus on artificial intelligence by establishing a new AI division. To spearhead this initiative, Nokia has recruited an executive from Intel, signalling a strategic pivot under the leadership of CEO Justin Hotard. Hotard, who assumed the role of CEO in April 2025, brings experience from Intel's Data Center & AI Group and Hewlett Packard Enterprise.

This move aligns with the growing demand for data centre networking driven by AI. Nokia aims to play a crucial role in providing connectivity for hyperscale data centres. The company's acquisition of Infinera is part of its strategy to strengthen its optical business and improve data centre interconnect capabilities. Nokia is also expanding its role in defence and national security networks, working with NATO on secure communications.

Nokia is partnering with Supermicro to deliver AI-optimised data centre solutions. This collaboration combines Supermicro's 800G Ethernet switching platforms with Nokia's Service Router Linux (SR Linux) Network Operating System (NOS) and Event-Driven Automation (EDA). The goal is to provide integrated data centre networking for AI, high-performance computing, and cloud environments, offering enhanced performance, scalability, and automation.