At WebexOne, Cisco introduced its (artificial intelligence) AI strategy for Webex, which is aimed at enhancing communication and collaboration. 

Webex’s approach leverages real-time audio and video communications to address common challenges such as ensuring high-quality calls and meetings even in low-bandwidth situations. 

“We’re at the tipping point of a new era of hybrid work, with AI holding the key to helping us bridge the gap and enable us all to work and communicate to our full potential,” said Jeetu Patel, executive vice president and general manager, Cisco Security and Collaboration. “Our Webex platform has long enabled our rapid pace of innovation.”

Cisco unveils AI-powered enhancements across Webex Suite
Cisco beefs up Webex with new features for hybrid work

Webex AI Assistant

Cisco also unveiled its Webex AI Assistant, equipped with innovative capabilities to boost productivity and accuracy for users. This AI strategy will be applied across the entire Webex portfolio, including the Webex Suite, Cisco Collaboration devices, Webex Contact Center, Webex Connect, and Webex Control Hub, with early adopters like McLaren Racing and Team DSM.

Cisco introduces Real-Time Media Models (RMMs) within Webex, enhancing audio and video quality. RMMs can analyze multiple media streams, providing valuable insights such as object recognition, gestures, and action analytics. These models enable audio and video channels to provide context for text-based features like meeting summaries and highlights. This fusion of AI for text, audio, and video allows Webex to offer real-time insights, potentially identifying when a meeting participant steps away and capturing relevant meeting notes.

AI Codec for audio quality

Network issues often disrupt audio and video calls, leading to frustrating experiences for users. To address this, Cisco introduced an AI Codec in Webex, capable of delivering crystal-clear audio under various network conditions. This codec includes features like noise removal, de-reverberation, and bandwidth extension, ensuring unprecedented audio clarity. It also incorporates machine learning techniques to enhance video quality through Super Resolution, providing high-definition video even in low-bandwidth scenarios.

Large Language Models

Recognizing that different use cases require distinct Large Language Models (LLMs), Webex employs a federated approach that combines various models, including commercial, open source, Cisco-proprietary, and select customer models. This approach promises the best possible experience for users.

Cisco’s AI endeavors prioritize security, privacy, and human rights. The Webex AI strategy and AI Assistant align with Cisco’s Responsible AI Framework, which focuses on transparency, fairness, accountability, privacy, security, and reliability, ensuring the promise of AI is realized responsibly.