When it comes to AI automation for telecom, Otto Kolbe, CEO of Virtual-Call, shares how integrating AI tools like Claude and Perplexity into his telecom workflows drastically reduced costs, improved accuracy, and transformed daily operations—even before connecting AI directly to PortaBilling.
I used to spend three hours per file. Now it’s done in one second.
That’s how Otto Kolbe, CEO of Swiss-based telecom operator Virtual-Call, describes the impact of AI in his business.
In a recent video interview, Otto explains how he adopted tools like Claude 4 and Perplexity Enterprise to simplify and automate a wide range of tasks, without writing a single line of code.
Why AI Automation for Telecom Works
Even before connecting AI directly to PortaBilling, Otto was already transforming his daily operations using AI agents like Claude and Perplexity for telecom automation tasks.
Claude’s ability to understand telecom-specific language—like rate decks, prefixes, and tax zones—makes it a natural fit. Meanwhile, Perplexity helps search documentation, explain technical terms, or draft customer responses without any handholding.
Here’s how Otto applies AI to daily operations:
- Customized Invoicing: AI generates tailored invoice templates in multiple languages and currencies, reducing manual work from hours to seconds.
- Multilingual Customer Support: Automating ticket responses in various languages cuts response times and eliminates the need for in-house translators.
- Pricing File Management: AI restructures complex CSV files for DID and SIP trunk services, ensuring accuracy and eliminating errors.
- Error Reduction: By automating repetitive tasks, Virtual-Call reduced manual errors and saw a significant drop in customer support tickets.
This no-code approach makes AI automation for telecom accessible to small CSPs without large budgets or technical teams.
Claude knew what PortaBilling was. I just asked in plain language, and it built everything—visually and accurately.
Massive Time and Cost Savings
- 20+ hours/week saved by automating rate updates
- $2,000+ saved on outsourced technical tasks
- Multi-language support without needing in-house translators
AI doesn’t just automate tasks — it changes how teams approach day-to-day challenges. As automation delivers quick, reliable results in repetitive scenarios, teams begin to consider AI as the default solution, not a last resort.
Otto also highlights how AI democratizes innovation for small CSPs: “Many people have great ideas but not the budget to hire a team. AI gives us that power.”
How CSPs Can Adopt AI Automation for Telecom
Otto Kolbe’s success with AI automation for telecom shows that small CSPs don’t need massive budgets to innovate. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose Accessible AI Tools: Platforms like Claude and Perplexity require no coding expertise, making them ideal for telecom teams.
- Start Small: Automate repetitive tasks like invoicing or ticket responses to see immediate time and cost savings.
- Plan for Integration: Tools like PortaBilling’s MCP enable future AI connections, scaling automation across operations.
- Measure Impact: Track time saved and error reduction to justify further AI investment.
By eliminating routine work, AI frees up time for teams to focus on launching new services or improving customer experience — without hiring additional staff or increasing budgets.
For small CSPs, AI can act as a foundation for future growth. Automating common operational tasks helps reduce overhead and enables faster adaptation as the business scales.
Virtual-Call’s $2,000+ savings on outsourced tasks prove that AI automation for telecom is a game-changer for small operators.
The Future of AI Automation for Telecom with PortaBilling
Looking ahead, Otto sees huge potential in connecting AI agents directly to PortaBilling via MCP: “You can do everything within PortaBilling. Imagine the possibilities when the AI is connected to the system!”
Whether you’re running a small CSP or scaling a larger operation, Otto’s journey shows how AI automation for telecom can unlock new levels of efficiency. Don’t wait for a perfect integration—start small, experiment, and see where AI can take you.
