More than $650B will be spent on AI infrastructure in 2026. As AI data centers come online and million of users leverage additional compute, knowing the network quality and speed will become paramount. Users want faster and better responses that is available everywhere (e.g., AI speech-to-speech while driving a Tesla).
Previously, it didn’t matter that it took a few seconds for the chatbot to respond but as AI’s capabilities continue to improve, real-time feedback will be ever more important. The biggest focus this year is on AI agents (e.g., OpenClaw), which have the capabilities to perform user actions such as responding to messages, booking restaurant reservations, and executing other routine tasks. Imagine being able to speak to one’s AI agent and receiving live voice-feedback (i.e., akin to a real-life personal assistant). Having a smooth user experience by ensuring consistent and reliable network connectivity will be critical.
Earlier this month, Ziff Davis announced the sale of its Connectivity business to Accenture. The Connectivity business, also known as Ookla, the primary brand among other smaller connectivity brands, collects network quality and speed data and resells it to telecoms and internet service providers (ISPs).
As Accenture advises its clients on AI deployment and implementation, they can also offer deep insight into network data as a value-add service to ensure a reliable, consistent customer experience.
Per Accenture, on how they view the importance of network data:
“Modern networks have evolved from simple infrastructure into business-critical platforms,” said Julie Sweet, chair and CEO, Accenture. “Without the ability to measure performance, organizations cannot optimize experience, revenue, or security. By acquiring Ookla, we will help our clients across business and government scale AI safely and build the trusted data foundations they need to deliver the reliable, seamless connectivity that creates value.
Network data is no longer just a lifeline for the telecoms industry; it now creates significant value across all sectors. As AI scales, the insights captured at the network, device, and application layers are essential to enhance fraud prevention in banking, smart home analytics in utilities, and traffic optimization in retail.
This is an excellent transaction for both parties: Accenture gets unique network data that can augment their advisory business, while Ziff Davis unlocks significant value for its shareholders.
Transaction details can be found below:
Stepmark Partners 