Fiber Connect 2026 Proof of Concept Showcase to Feature AI-Powered Operations, Device Management, and Subscriber Experience

Fiber Connect 2026 Proof of Concept Showcase to Feature AI-Powered Operations, Device Management, and Subscriber Experience 

Five innovations demonstrate fiber’s ability to move networks and communities light years ahead  

WASHINGTON, D.C.—(May 11, 2026)—The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) today announced the Proof of Concept (PoC) demonstrations planned for Fiber Connect 2026, May 17-20, in Orlando, Florida. The PoC Showcase is hosted by the Broadband Forum (BBF) and will feature five demonstrations that explore how interoperable technologies enable a more efficient, scalable connected community.   

“Fiber Connect brings the industry together to solve real challenges, and the PoC Showcase captures that spirit in action,” said Jessica Koch, FBA Conference Committee Chair and Controller at CBS Oregon. “These demonstrations highlight the innovation across the ecosystem while creating an exciting, collaborative environment where companies can push boundaries, test new ideas, and show what’s possible.”  

“Open standards are the foundation that makes true interoperability and innovation across broadband networks possible,” said Ken Pyle, Director of Marketing at Broadband Forum. “The PoC Showcase welcomes companies around common specifications to demonstrate how standardized approaches reduce complexity, accelerate deployment, and enable service providers to deliver more scalable, high-quality subscriber experiences.” 

The 2026 PoCs include:  

• Autonomous Networks via MCP: AI-Agents Driving Zero-Touch Customer Support – presented by AVSystem. The demonstration features a synergy of Model Context Protocol (MCP), AI-agents, and foundational BBF protocols to enable true autonomous networks. Operators can modernize massive existing deployments alongside new rollouts, reduce OPEX, eliminate unnecessary truck rolls, and deliver zero-touch connectivity. 

• Real-Time Data Streaming Using a Phone – presented by Axiros. This PoC demonstrates User Service Platform (USP) protocol accessibility, flexibility, and real-time capabilities through a fully interactive mobile-first experience. It extends beyond traditional CPE management into consumer devices, showcasing real-time data insights, ease of integration, and large capacity. 

• Friendly AI Assistant Powering its TR–369 Device Management Platform – presented by Friendly Technologies. This PoC presents an AI-driven operational intelligence layer that delivers real-time diagnostics, automated root-cause analysis, and autonomous resolution across devices and Wi-Fi networks.  

• IQGeo AI – presented by IQGeo. This demonstration features live AI-powered quality control across the full fiber network lifecycle. It delivers real-time quality assurance at the point of work to ensure fiber installations are done right the first time.  

• IPTV/OTT Platform: A Unique TV Experience. Modernize TV. Simplify Operations. Protect Broadband Value – presented by UniqCast. This PoC will feature an end-to-end IPTV/OTT platform that consolidates multiple video delivery components into a single integrated platform with one roadmap and support model. It enables providers to reduce operational workload and complexity. 

The PoCs will be presented in the Fiber Connect 2026 Expo Hall, May 18-19, and evaluated by leading industry analysts. Awards will be presented for Most Innovative, Biggest Impact, and Game Changer.  

To learn more about the PoC Showcase and Fiber Connect 2026, visit fiberconnect.fiberbroadband.org or subscribe to FBA’s Fiber Forward Weekly newsletter here to stay updated.