AI is getting bigger, but does bigger always mean better? As Large Language Models (LLMs) dominate the scene, their staggering resource consumption raises urgent questions about sustainability and

AI is getting bigger, but does bigger always mean better? As Large Language Models (LLMs) dominate the scene, their staggering resource consumption raises urgent questions about sustainability and efficiency. In this webinar, we challenge the notion that AI must be massive to be powerful. We introduce the Expressive Neural Network (ENN), a novel architecture that rethinks activation functions through the lens of classical signal processing, specifically, the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT). This innovative approach not only enhances a network's flexibility and expressiveness but also leads to faster convergence and significantly smaller models, reducing both energy consumption and computational costs. ​

Our discussion bridged the gap between traditional signal processing techniques and modern AI, demonstrating how established mathematical tools can inspire next-generation machine learning. We explored how ENNs can revolutionize edge computing, enabling efficient AI in resource-constrained environments, and why expressiveness – not just size – is the key to the future of neural networks. If LLMs are the brute force of AI, could ENNs be its precision tool?

Speaker:
Ana Pérez-Neira, Centre Tecnològic de Telecomunicacions de Catalunya, Spain​​

Moderators:
Ian F. Akyildiz, Editor-in-Chief, ITU Journal on Future and Evolving Technologies (ITU-J FET)​​

Alessia Magliarditi, ITU Journal and ITU-T Academia Coordinator, International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

This webinar is organized by the ITU Journal on Future and Evolving Technologies (ITU J-FET), an international journal providing complete coverage of all communications and networking paradigms, free of charge for both readers and authors. The ITU Journal considers yet-to-be-published papers addressing fundamental and applied research. Open topics for future research will be discussed. See more information on the ITU Journal webinar series and the open Calls for Papers for the upcoming ITU Journal’s issues here.

In his insightful talk, Karan Sood explored the transformative role of artificial intelligence and technology in addressing the climate change crisis. He discussed how AI-driven innovations are

In his insightful talk, Karan Sood explored the transformative role of artificial intelligence and technology in addressing the climate change crisis. He discussed how AI-driven innovations are enhancing our ability to predict climate patterns, optimize energy consumption, and develop sustainable solutions for industries contributing to environmental degradation. By highlighting cutting-edge technological advancements, Karan emphasized the potential of AI to drive large-scale change, reduce carbon footprints, and accelerate efforts toward a more sustainable and resilient future in the face of climate challenges. Karan Sood is the CEO and co-founder of Fastor7, a global digital transformation company with a presence in India, the US, and Canada. With over six years of entrepreneurial experience, Karan combines technical expertise with innovative leadership. A graduate of IIT Delhi in entrepreneurship, he has been a TEDx speaker and has had his work featured in prominent outlets like Forbes, CNBC TV18, and YourStory. Karan is also known for leading the impactful CovidMealsForIndia.com initiative, which connected over 5 lakh people to food providers during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning him the Community Championships Award for his efforts. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

We present before you Ms. Ishanvi's thought provoking talk on climate crisis and how we can combat the issue through AI. Ishanvi Shetty is a 15 year old, 11th grader from GEMS Modern Academy in

We present before you Ms. Ishanvi's thought provoking talk on climate crisis and how we can combat the issue through AI. Ishanvi Shetty is a 15 year old, 11th grader from GEMS Modern Academy in Dubai. As an avid public speaker, debater and philosophy enthusiast, Ishanvi is deeply committed to youth empowerment and addressing the climate crisis.

She actively participates in sustainability initiatives, organizes and engages in dialogues, conferences and events and advocates for the environment through volunteering and entrepreneurial ventures. She is interested in the intersection of climate change and AI with a vision to make significant impact in this field. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx