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    From Function Calls to MCPs for Securing AI Agent Systems: Architecture, Challenges and Countermeasures
    WANG Wei, LI Shaofeng, DONG Tian, MENG Yan, ZHU Haojin
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 27-37.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503004
    Abstract359)   HTML12)    PDF (1290KB)(179)       Save

    With the widespread deployment of large language models (LLMs) in complex and multimodal scenarios, there is a growing demand for secure and standardized integration of external tools and data sources. The Model Context Protocol (MCP), proposed by Anthropic in late 2024, has emerged as a promising framework. Designed to standardize the interaction between LLMs and their external environments, it serves as a “USB-C interface for AI”. While MCP has been rapidly adopted in the industry, systematic academic studies on its security implications remain scarce. This paper presents a comprehensive review of MCP from a security perspective. We begin by analyzing the architecture and workflow of MCP and identify potential security vulnerabilities across key stages including input processing, decision-making, client invocation, server response, and response generation. We then categorize and assess existing defense mechanisms. In addition, we design a real-world attack experiment to demonstrate the feasibility of tool description injection within an actual MCP environment. Based on the experimental results, we further highlight underexplored threat surfaces and propose future directions for securing AI agent systems powered by MCP. This paper aims to provide a structured reference framework for researchers and developers seeking to balance functionality and security in MCP-based systems.

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    Poison-Only and Targeted Backdoor Attack Against Visual Object Tracking
    GU Wei, SHAO Shuo, ZHOU Lingtao, QIN Zhan, REN Kui
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 3-14.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503002
    Abstract331)   HTML5)    PDF (1597KB)(144)       Save

    Visual object tracking (VOT), aiming to track a target object in a continuous video, is a fundamental and critical task in computer vision. However, the reliance on third-party resources (e.g., dataset) for training poses concealed threats to the security of VOT models. In this paper, we reveal that VOT models are vulnerable to a poison-only and targeted backdoor attack, where the adversary can achieve arbitrary tracking predictions by manipulating only part of the training data. Specifically, we first define and formulate three different variants of the targeted attacks: size-manipulation, trajectory-manipulation, and hybrid attacks. To implement these, we introduce Random Video Poisoning (RVP), a novel poison-only strategy that exploits temporal correlations within video data by poisoning entire video sequences. Extensive experiments demonstrate that RVP effectively injects controllable backdoors, enabling precise manipulation of tracking behavior upon trigger activation, while maintaining high performance on benign data, thus ensuring stealth. Our findings not only expose significant vulnerabilities but also highlight that the underlying principles could be adapted for beneficial uses, such as dataset watermarking for copyright protection.

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    Dataset Copyright Auditing for Large Models: Fundamentals, Open Problems, and Future Directions
    DU Linkang, SU Zhou, YU Xinyi
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 38-47.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503005
    Abstract325)   HTML3)    PDF (511KB)(147)       Save

    The unprecedented scale of large models, such as large language models (LLMs) and text-to-image diffusion models, has raised critical concerns about the unauthorized use of copyrighted data during model training. These concerns have spurred a growing demand for dataset copyright auditing techniques, which aim to detect and verify potential infringements in the training data of commercial AI systems. This paper presents a survey of existing auditing solutions, categorizing them across key dimensions: data modality, model training stage, data overlap scenarios, and model access levels. We highlight major trends, including the prevalence of black-box auditing methods and the emphasis on fine-tuning rather than pre-training. Through an in-depth analysis of 12 representative works, we extract four key observations that reveal the limitations of current methods. Furthermore, we identify three open challenges and propose future directions for robust, multimodal, and scalable auditing solutions. Our findings underscore the urgent need to establish standardized benchmarks and develop auditing frameworks that are resilient to low watermark densities and applicable in diverse deployment settings.

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    Real-Time 7-Core SDM Transmission System Using Commercial 400 Gbit/s OTN Transceivers and Network Management System
    CUI Jian, GU Ninglun, CHANG Cheng, SHI Hu, YAN Baoluo
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 81-88.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503009
    Abstract313)   HTML3)    PDF (3531KB)(96)       Save

    Space-division multiplexing (SDM) utilizing uncoupled multi-core fibers (MCF) is considered a promising candidate for next-generation high-speed optical transmission systems due to its huge capacity and low inter-core crosstalk. In this paper, we demonstrate a real-time high-speed SDM transmission system over a field-deployed 7-core MCF cable using commercial 400 Gbit/s backbone optical transport network (OTN) transceivers and a network management system. The transceivers employ a high noise-tolerant quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulation format with a 130 Gbaud rate, enabled by optoelectronic multi-chip module (OE-MCM) packaging. The network management system can effectively manage and monitor the performance of the 7-core SDM OTN system and promptly report failure events through alarms. Our field trial demonstrates the compatibility of uncoupled MCF with high-speed OTN transmission equipment and network management systems, supporting its future deployment in next-generation high-speed terrestrial cable transmission networks.

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    VOTI: Jailbreaking Vision-Language Models via Visual Obfuscation and Task Induction
    ZHU Yifan, CHU Zhixuan, REN Kui
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 15-26.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503003
    Abstract302)   HTML5)    PDF (6551KB)(147)       Save

    In recent years, large vision-language models (VLMs) have achieved significant breakthroughs in cross-modal understanding and generation. However, the safety issues arising from their multimodal interactions become prominent. VLMs are vulnerable to jailbreak attacks, where attackers craft carefully designed prompts to bypass safety mechanisms, leading them to generate harmful content. To address this, we investigate the alignment between visual inputs and task execution, uncovering locality defects and attention biases in VLMs. Based on these findings, we propose VOTI, a novel jailbreak framework leveraging visual obfuscation and task induction. VOTI subtly embeds malicious keywords within neutral image layouts to evade detection, and breaks down harmful queries into a sequence of subtasks. This approach disperses malicious intent across modalities, exploiting VLMs’ over-reliance on local visual cues and their fragility in multi-step reasoning to bypass global safety mechanisms. Implemented as an automated framework, VOTI integrates large language models as red-team assistants to generate and iteratively optimize jailbreak strategies. Extensive experiments across seven mainstream VLMs demonstrate VOTI’s effectiveness, achieving a 73.46% attack success rate on GPT-4o-mini. These results reveal critical vulnerabilities in VLMs, highlighting the urgent need for improving robust defenses and multimodal alignment.

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    Special Topic on Security of Large Models
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 1-2.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503001
    Abstract297)   HTML8)    PDF (343KB)(122)       Save
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    Analysis of Feasible Solutions for Railway 5G Network Security Assessment
    XU Hang, SUN Bin, DING Jianwen, WANG Wei
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 59-70.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503007
    Abstract290)   HTML1)    PDF (502KB)(102)       Save

    The Fifth Generation of Mobile Communications for Railways (5G-R) brings significant opportunities for the rail industry. However, alongside the potential and benefits of the railway 5G network are complex security challenges. Ensuring the security and reliability of railway 5G networks is therefore essential. This paper presents a detailed examination of security assessment techniques for railway 5G networks, focusing on addressing the unique security challenges in this field. In this paper, various security requirements in railway 5G networks are analyzed, and specific processes and methods for conducting comprehensive security risk assessments are presented. This study provides a framework for securing railway 5G network development and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

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    Key Techniques and Challenges in NeRF-Based Dynamic 3D Reconstruction
    LU Ping, FENG Daquan, SHI Wenzhe, LI Wan, LIN Jiaxin
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 71-80.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503008
    Abstract271)   HTML1)    PDF (675KB)(100)       Save

    This paper explores the key techniques and challenges in dynamic scene reconstruction with neural radiance fields (NeRF). As an emerging computer vision method, the NeRF has wide application potential, especially in excelling at 3D reconstruction. We first introduce the basic principles and working mechanisms of NeRFs, followed by an in-depth discussion of the technical challenges faced by 3D reconstruction in dynamic scenes, including problems in perspective and illumination changes of moving objects, recognition and modeling of dynamic objects, real-time requirements, data acquisition and calibration, motion estimation, and evaluation mechanisms. We also summarize current state-of-the-art approaches to address these challenges, as well as future research trends. The goal is to provide researchers with an in-depth understanding of the application of NeRFs in dynamic scene reconstruction, as well as insights into the key issues faced and future directions.

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    StegoAgent: A Generative Steganography Framework Based on GUI Agents
    SHEN Qiuhong, YANG Zijin, JIANG Jun, ZHANG Weiming, CHEN Kejiang
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 48-58.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503006
    Abstract267)   HTML2)    PDF (1144KB)(107)       Save

    Steganography is a technology that discreetly embeds secret information into the redundant space of a carrier, enabling covert communication. As generative models continue to advance, steganography has evolved from traditional modification-based methods to generative steganography, which includes generative linguistic and image based forms. However, while large model agents are rapidly emerging, no method has exploited the stable redundant space in their action processes. Inspired by this insightful observation, we propose a steganographic method leveraging large model agents, employing their actions to conceal secret messages. In this paper, we introduce StegoAgent, a generative steganography framework based on graphical user interface (GUI) agents, which effectively demonstrates the remarkable potential and effectiveness of large model agent-based steganographic methods.

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    M+MNet: A Mixed-Precision Multibranch Network for Image Aesthetics Assessment
    HE Shuai, LIU Limin, WANG Zhanli, LI Jinliang, MAO Xiaojun, MING Anlong
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 96-110.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503011
    Abstract239)   HTML2)    PDF (4795KB)(109)       Save

    We propose Mixed-Precision Multibranch Network (M+MNet) to compensate for the neglect of background information in image aesthetics assessment (IAA) while providing strategies for overcoming the dilemma between training costs and performance. First, two exponentially weighted pooling methods are used to selectively boost the extraction of background and salient information during downsampling. Second, we propose Corner Grid, an unsupervised data augmentation method that leverages the diffusive characteristics of convolution to force the network to seek more relevant background information. Third, we perform mixed-precision training by switching the precision format, thus significantly reducing the time and memory consumption of data representation and transmission. Most of our methods specifically designed for IAA tasks have demonstrated generalizability to other IAA works. For performance verification, we develop a large-scale benchmark (the most comprehensive thus far) by comparing 17 methods with M+MNet on two representative datasets: the Aesthetic Visual Analysis (AVA) dataset and FLICKR-Aesthetic Evaluation Subset (FLICKR-AES). M+MNet achieves state-of-the-art performance on all tasks.

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    Antenna Parameter Calibration for Mobile Communication Base Station via Laser Tracker
    LI Junqiang, CHEN Shijun, FENG Yujie, FAN Jiancun, CHEN Qiang
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (3): 89-95.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202503010
    Abstract225)   HTML1)    PDF (1386KB)(96)       Save

    In the field of antenna engineering parameter calibration for indoor communication base stations, traditional methods suffer from issues such as low efficiency, poor accuracy, and limited applicability to indoor scenarios. To address these problems, a high-precision and high-efficiency indoor base station parameter calibration method based on laser measurement is proposed. We use a high-precision laser tracker to measure and determine the coordinate system transformation relationship, and further obtain the coordinates and attitude of the base station. In addition, we propose a simple calibration method based on point cloud fitting for specific scenes. Simulation results show that using common commercial laser trackers, we can achieve a coordinate correction accuracy of 1 cm and an angle correction accuracy of 0.25°, which is sufficient to meet the needs of wireless positioning.

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    Empowering Grounding DINO with MoE: An End-to-End Framework for Cross-Domain Few-Shot Object Detection
    DONG Xiugang, ZHANG Kaijin, NONG Qingpeng, JU Minhan, TU Yaofeng
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 77-85.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504009
    Abstract186)   HTML10)    PDF (1743KB)(59)       Save

    Open-set object detectors, as exemplified by Grounding DINO, have attracted significant attention due to their remarkable performance on in-domain datasets like Common Objects in Context (COCO) after only few-shot fine-tuning. However, their generalization capabilities in cross-domain scenarios remain substantially inferior to their in-domain few-shot performance. Prior work on fine-tuning Grounding DINO for cross-domain few-shot object detection has primarily focused on data augmentation, leaving broader systemic optimizations unexplored. To bridge this gap, we propose a comprehensive end-to-end fine-tuning framework specifically designed to optimize Grounding DINO for cross-domain few-shot scenarios. In addition, we propose Mixture-of-Experts (MoE)-Grounding DINO, a novel architecture that integrates the MoE architecture to enhance adaptability in cross-domain settings. Our approach demonstrates a significant 15.4 Mean Average Precision (mAP) improvement over the Grounding DINO baseline on the Roboflow20-VL benchmark, establishing a new state of the art for cross-domain few-shot object detection (CD-FSOD). The source code and models will be made available upon publication.

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    Insights on Next Generation WLAN: High Experiences (HEX)
    YANG Mao, LI Bo, YAN Zhongjiang
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 10-15.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504003
    Abstract181)   HTML3)    PDF (709KB)(40)       Save

    Wireless local area networks (WLANs) have witnessed rapid growth in the past 20 years, with maximum throughput as the key technical objective. However, quality of experience (QoE) remains the primary concern for wireless network users. We point out that poor QoE is the most challenging issue in current WLANs and further analyze the key technical problems that cause poor QoE in WLANs, including fully distributed networking architectures, chaotic random access, awkward “high capability” issues, coarse-grained quality of service (QoS) architectures, ubiquitous and complicated interference, “no place” for AI issues, and heavy burden of standard evolution. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work to point out that poor QoE is the most challenging problem in current WLANs, and the first to systematically analyze the technical problems that cause poor QoE in WLANs. We strongly suggest that achieving high experience (HEX) be the key objective of the next-generation WLANs.

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    FTTR-MmWave Architecture for Next-Generation Indoor High-Speed Communications
    CHEN Zhe, ZHOU Peigen, WANG Long, HOU Debin, HU Yun, CHEN Jixin, HONG Wei
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 16-26.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504004
    Abstract177)   HTML204)    PDF (4107KB)(94)       Save

    Millimeter-wave (mmWave) technology has been extensively studied for indoor short-range communications. In such fixed network applications, the emerging FTTR architecture allows mmWave technology to be well cascaded with in-room optical network terminals, supporting high-speed communication at rates over tens of Gbit/s. In this Fiber-to-the-Room (FTTR)-mmWave system, the severe signal attenuation over distance and high penetration loss through room walls are no longer bottlenecks for practical mmWave deployment. Instead, these properties create high spatial isolation, which prevents mutual interference between data streams and ensures information security. This paper surveys the promising integration of FTTR and mmWave access for next-generation indoor high-speed communications, with a particular focus on the Ultra-Converged Access Network (U-CAN) architecture. It is structured in two main parts: it first traces this new FTTR-mmWave architecture from the perspective of Wi-Fi and mmWave communication evolution, and then focuses specifically on the development of key mmWave chipsets for FTTR-mmWave Wi-Fi applications. This work aims to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers working toward immersive, untethered indoor wireless experiences for users.

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    PON Monitoring Scheme Based on TGD-OFDR with High Spatial Resolution and Dynamic Range
    ZHU Yidai, FAN Xinyu, ZHU Songlin, DONG Jiaxing, LI Guoqiang, HE Zuyuan
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 3-9.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504002
    Abstract176)   HTML3)    PDF (1293KB)(78)       Save

    Conventional optical time-domain reflectometry (OTDR) schemes for passive optical network (PON) link monitoring are limited by insufficient dynamic range and spatial resolution. The expansion of PONs, with increasing optical network units (ONUs) and cascaded splitters, imposes even more stringent demands on the dynamic range of monitoring systems. To address these challenges, we propose a time-gated digital optical frequency-domain reflectometry (TGD-OFDR) system for PON monitoring that effectively decouples the inherent coupling between spatial resolution and pulse width. The proposed system achieves both high spatial resolution (~0.3 m) and high dynamic range (~30 dB) simultaneously, marking a significant advancement in optical link monitoring.

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    Full-Duplex Massive MIMO Self-Interference Suppression Based on Beamforming
    ZHANG Boyu, ZHANG Ling, LI Zijing, SHEN Ying
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 97-109.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504011
    Abstract168)   HTML4)    PDF (3515KB)(38)       Save

    The complexities of hardware and signal processing make it especially challenging to develop self-interference cancellation (SIC) techniques for full-duplex (FD) massive multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) systems. This paper examines an FD massive MIMO system featuring multi-stream transmission. Specifically, it adopts an architecture where a single transmit or receive radio frequency (RF) channel is connected to three antennas in the same polarization direction, effectively reducing the number of transmit and receive RF channels by half. The SoftNull algorithm serves as the primary method for SI suppression, leveraging digital precoding during transmission. Additionally, this study outlines a design strategy to enhance SIC in the proposed system. Simulation results highlight the efficacy of the SoftNull algorithm, which achieves a remarkable total SIC of up to 64 dB. Furthermore, combined with measures such as antenna isolation and increased transceiver array spacing, the resulting sum rate can be twice that of a half-duplex system.

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    QoS-Aware Energy Saving Based on Multi-Threshold Dynamic Buffer for FTTR Networks
    CAI Jinhan, ZAN Mingyuan, SHEN Gangxiang
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 48-64.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504007
    Abstract159)   HTML197)    PDF (3807KB)(38)       Save

    As Fiber-to-the-Room (FTTR) networks proliferate, multi-device deployments pose significant energy consumption challenges. This paper proposes a Quality of Service (QoS)-aware energy-saving scheme based on a multi-threshold buffer energy saving (MBES) scheme to reduce consumption while ensuring energy QoS. MBES leverages the centralized control of the main fiber unit (MFU) and the wireless-state awareness of subordinate fiber units (SFUs) for synergistic fiber-wireless energy savings. The scheme assigns independent, dynamic buffer thresholds to service queues on SFUs, enabling low-latency reporting for high-priority traffic while accumulating low-priority data to extend sleep cycles. At the MFU, a coordinated scheduling algorithm accounts for Wi-Fi access delay and creates an adaptive closed-loop control by adjusting SFUs’ buffer thresholds based on end-to-end delay feedback. Simulation results show that, while satisfying strict latency requirements, MBES achieves a maximum energy saving of 17.75% compared with the no energy saving (NES) scheme and provides a superior trade-off between latency control and energy efficiency compared with the single-threshold buffer energy saving (SBES) scheme.

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    Deep CSI Compression and Feedback for Massive MIMO: A Survey
    Lu Zhaohua, Yi Chenyang, Wu Jie, Shao Bo, Xu Wei
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 4-15.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601003
    Abstract134)   HTML2)    PDF (1931KB)(68)       Save

    To achieve the potential performance gain of massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems, base stations (BS) require downlink channel state information (CSI) fed back by users to execute beamforming design, especially in the frequency division duplex (FDD) systems. However, due to the enormous number of antennas in massive MIMO systems, the feedback overhead of downlink CSI acquisition is extremely large. To address this issue, deep learning (DL) techniques have been introduced to develop high-accuracy feedback strategies under limited backhaul constraints. In this paper, we provide an overview of DL-based CSI compression and feedback approaches in massive MIMO systems. Specifically, we introduce the conventional CSI compression and feedback schemes and the existing problems. Besides, we elaborate on various DL techniques employed in CSI compression from the perspective of network architecture and analyze the advantages of different techniques. We also enumerate the applications of DL-based methods for solving practical challenges in CSI compression and feedback. In addition, we brief the remaining issues in deep CSI compression and indicate potential directions in future wireless networks.

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    A Transformer-Based End-to-End Receiver Design for Wi-Fi 7 Physical Layer
    LIU Yichen, GAO Ruixin, ZENG Chen, LIU Yingzhuang
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 27-36.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504005
    Abstract134)   HTML198)    PDF (1422KB)(64)       Save

    The increasing demand for high throughput and low latency in Wi-Fi 7 necessitates a robust receiver design. Traditional receiver architectures, which rely on a cascade of complex, independent signal processing modules, often face performance bottlenecks. Rather than focusing on semantic-level tasks or simplified Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) channels, this paper investigates a bit-level end-to-end receiver for a practical Wi-Fi 7 Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM) physical layer. A lightweight Transformer-based encoder-only architecture is proposed to directly map synchronized OFDM signals to decoded bitstreams, replacing the conventional channel estimation, equalization, and data detection. By leveraging the multi-head self-attention mechanism of the Transformer encoder, our model effectively captures long-range spatial–temporal dependencies across antennas and subcarriers, thus learning to compensate for channel distortions without explicit channel state information. This mechanism eliminates the need for explicit channel estimation, enabling the direct extraction of crucial channel and signal features. Experimental results validate the efficacy of the proposed design, demonstrating the significant potential of deep learning for future wireless receiver architectures.

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    Modern Graphics APIs: Design Principles, A Use Case, and New Perspectives
    Lu Ping, Sun Qi, Wang Chen, Guo Jie, Guo Yanwen, Shi Wenzhe
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 97-106.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601013
    Abstract131)   HTML2)    PDF (2369KB)(28)       Save

    In this paper, we provide a comprehensive examination of the evolution of graphics Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). We begin by exploring traditional graphics APIs, elucidating their distinct features and inherent challenges. This sets the stage for a detailed exploration of modern graphics APIs, with a focus on four critical design principles. These principles are further analyzed through specific case studies and categorical examinations. The paper then introduces MoerEngine, a bespoke rendering engine, as a practical case to demonstrate the real-world application of these modern principles in software engineering. In conclusion, the study offers insights into the potential future trajectory of graphics APIs, spotlighting emerging design patterns and technological innovations. It also ventures to predict the development trends and capabilities of next-generation graphics APIs.

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    New Generation FTTR Communication and Networking Technology
    GE Xiaohu, ZHONG Yi
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 1-2.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504001
    Abstract120)   HTML10)    PDF (375KB)(54)       Save
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    A Root Cause Analysis Framework for Microservice Systems with Multimodal Data
    LI Yingke, HAN Jing, SUN Yongqian, SHI Binpeng, GONG Zican
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 110-119.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504012
    Abstract115)   HTML3)    PDF (2201KB)(24)       Save

    In recent years, microservice architecture has gained increasing popularity. However, due to the complex and dynamically changing nature of microservice systems, failure detection has become more challenging. Traditional root cause analysis methods mostly rely on a single modality of data, which is insufficient to cover all failure information. Existing multimodal methods require collecting high-quality labeled samples and often face challenges in classifying unknown failure categories. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a root cause analysis framework based on a masked graph autoencoder (GAE). The main process involves feature extraction, feature dimensionality reduction based on GAE, and online clustering combined with expert input. The method is experimentally evaluated on two public datasets and compared with two baseline methods, demonstrating significant advantages even with 16% labeled samples.

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    C-WAN for FTTR: Enabling Low-Overhead Joint Transmission with Deep Learning
    ZHANG Yang, CEN Zihan, ZHAN Wen, CHEN Xiang
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 65-76.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504008
    Abstract112)   HTML2)    PDF (2352KB)(34)       Save

    Fiber-to-the-Room (FTTR) networks with multi-access point (AP) coordination face significant challenges in implementing Joint Transmission (JT), particularly the high overhead of Channel State Information (CSI) acquisition. While the centralized wireless access network (C-WAN) architecture inherently provides high-precision synchronization through fiber-based clock distribution and centralized scheduling, efficient JT still requires accurate CSI with low signaling cost. In this paper, we propose a deep learning-based hybrid model that synergistically integrates temporal prediction and spatial reconstruction to exploit spatiotemporal correlations in indoor channels. By leveraging the centralized data and computational capability of the C-WAN architecture, the model reduces sounding frequency and the number of antennas required per sounding instance. Experimental results on a real-world synchronized channel dataset show that the proposed method lowers over-the-air resource consumption while maintaining JT performance close to that achieved with ideal CSI, offering a practical low-overhead solution for high-performance FTTR systems.

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    Root Cause Analysis of Poor FTTR Quality Based on Transformer Mechanisms
    YU Weichao, LIU Yang, ZHANG Junxiong, YE Junliang, GE Xiaohu
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 37-47.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504006
    Abstract105)   HTML3)    PDF (925KB)(31)       Save

    Fiber-to-the-Room (FTTR) has emerged as the core architecture for next-generation home and enterprise networks, offering gigabit-level bandwidth and seamless wireless coverage. However, the complex multi-device topology of FTTR networks presents significant challenges in identifying sources of network performance degradation and conducting accurate root cause analysis. Conventional approaches often fail to deliver efficient and precise operational improvements. To address this issue, this paper proposes a Transformer-based multi-task learning model designed for automated root cause analysis in FTTR environments. The model integrates multidimensional time-series data collected from access points (APs), enabling the simultaneous detection of APs experiencing performance degradation and the classification of underlying root causes, such as weak signal coverage, network congestion, and signal interference. To facilitate model training and evaluation, a multi-label dataset is generated using a discrete-event simulation platform implemented in MATLAB. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed Transformer-based multi-task learning model achieves a root cause classification accuracy of 96.75%, significantly outperforming baseline models including Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), Random Forest, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). This approach enables the rapid identification of performance degradation causes in FTTR networks, offering actionable insights for network optimization, reduced operational costs, and enhanced user experience.

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    To the Communications Community —2026 New Year’s Message
    Zhang Ping
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 1-1.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601001
    Abstract97)   HTML2)    PDF (319KB)(40)       Save
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    Synthesis and Design of Generalized Strongly Coupled Resonator Quartet Combline Filters with Redundant Resonance
    Xiong Zhi’ang, Fan Jiyuan, Zhao Ping, Zhou Jinzhu, Shen Nan, Wu Qingqiang
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 88-96.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601012
    Abstract93)   HTML1)    PDF (2418KB)(20)       Save

    This article proposes a generalized strongly coupled resonator quartet (GSCRQ) filter along with its synthesis approach. By introducing out-of-band reflection zeros (RZs), the proposed GSCRQ can generate a transmission zero on each side of the passband without negative couplings. The coupling coefficients in this coupling structure change with the positions of the out-of-band RZs. Thus, the GSCRQ configuration admits flexible design solutions. For GSCRQ coaxial combline filters, all couplings can be implemented as inductive couplings, simplifying the design and manufacturing process. In this article, a 6-2 filter in the GSCRQ configuration is synthesized and designed. The simulated results of the designed filter agree very well with the theoretical characteristics.

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    Special Topic on Achievements of ZTE’s Industry-University-Institute Cooperation Projects
    Xu Chengzhong
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 2-3.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601002
    Abstract90)   HTML1)    PDF (370KB)(45)       Save
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    Shortened PAC Codes and List Decoding
    LIU Aolin, FENG Bowen, LIANG Chulong, XU Jin, ZHANG Qinyu
    ZTE Communications    2025, 23 (4): 86-96.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202504010
    Abstract90)   HTML3)    PDF (2101KB)(14)       Save

    Shortening is a standard rate-matching method for polar codes in wireless communications. Since polarization-adjusted convolutional (PAC) codes also have a block length limited to the integer powers of two, they also require rate-matching. To this end, we first analyze the limitations of existing shortening patterns for PAC codes and explore their feasibility. Subsequently, we propose a novel shortening scheme for PAC codes based on list decoding, where the receiver is allowed to treat the values of the deleted bits as undetermined. This approach uses a specialized PAC codeword and activates multiple decoding paths during the initialization of list decoding, enabling it to achieve the desired reliability.

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    Low-Complexity OTFS Channel Equalization Based on CLU-MMSE
    Jia Haoxiang, Zhao Danfeng, Xin Yu, Hua Jian
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 16-24.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601004
    Abstract81)   HTML1)    PDF (2028KB)(36)       Save

    In view of the high computational complexity of traditional linear equalization algorithms in Orthogonal Time Frequency Space (OTFS) systems, a minimum mean square error (MMSE) channel equalization algorithm based on Matrix Chunking Lower and Upper Triangular Decomposition (CLU) is proposed. The proposed algorithm derives the structural properties of the chunked MMSE equalization matrix by leveraging the block diagonal structure of the Cyclic Prefix OTFS (CP-OTFS) time-domain channel matrix and the quasi-band structure of its constituent block matrices. On this basis, triangular decomposition combined with forward and backward substitution is used to avoid matrix inversion. This approach significantly reduces the complexity of the MMSE algorithm without sacrificing its performance.

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    Efficient and Secure Data Storage in 5G Industrial Internet Collaborative Systems
    Wang Jigang, Liu Dong, Wan Changsheng, Lu Ping
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 45-55.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601007
    Abstract73)   HTML2)    PDF (656KB)(46)       Save

    Security and access control for data storage in 5G industrial Internet collaborative systems are facing significant challenges. The characteristics of 5G networks, such as low latency and high speed, facilitate data transmission in the industrial Internet but also increase vulnerability to attacks like theft and tampering. Moreover, in 5G industrial Internet collaborative system environments, data flows across multiple entities and links, which necessitates a flexible access control model to meet specific data access requirements. Traditional role-based and attribute-based access control mechanisms are difficult to apply in such dynamic application scenarios. To address these challenges, we propose a novel data storage solution for 5G industrial Internet collaborative systems. Similar to existing approaches, it provides integrity and confidentiality protection for transmitted data. In terms of security, only authenticated data owners and users can obtain file decryption keys, preventing malicious attackers from data forgery. Regarding access control, decryption is permitted only to authorized data users, safeguarding against unauthorized file access. Furthermore, by introducing an attribute-based encryption mechanism, only data users with specific attributes can decrypt files. In terms of efficiency, our approach utilizes bilinear and modular exponentiation operations solely during the authentication process. For handling substantial data loads, lightweight cryptographic algorithms are employed. Consequently, our solution achieves higher efficiency compared with other known methods. Experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of our approach in real-world applications.

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    Carrier Frequency Offset Based Robust Radio Frequency Fingerprint for OFDM Communication in Time-Varying Channels
    Liu Gengyi, Pan Yijin, Wang Junbo, Chen Yijian, Yu Hongkang
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 25-33.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601005
    Abstract69)   HTML1)    PDF (2021KB)(33)       Save

    The radio frequency (RF) fingerprint technique is a robust method for security enhancement of the physical layer by leveraging the unique RF imperfections inherent in various wireless devices. Among these imperfections, the carrier frequency offset (CFO) stands out as a primary RF fingerprint (RFF) of the transmitter, offering the potential to distinguish among different transmitters. However, accurately estimating CFO in time-varying channels poses significant challenges due to multipath effects and Doppler shifts. In this paper, we focus on estimating CFO for wireless device identification in the orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) communication system. To achieve precise CFO estimation under time-varying channels, we propose a frequency domain correlation and spline interpolation (FCSI) algorithm. This approach utilizes pilots distributed across different subcarriers to correlate with prior local sequences, facilitating accurate CFO estimation. Classification is then performed based on the Euclidean distance between the prior RFF and the tested RFF dataset. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed M-consecutive average method effectively reduces the classification error rate in the challenging high-frequency (HF) skywave channel environment.

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    Key Technologies for AI-Driven Network Traffic Classification Workflow and Data Distribution Shift
    Zhao Jianchao, Geng Zhaosen, Li Zeyi, Wang Pan
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 34-44.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601006
    Abstract67)   HTML1)    PDF (827KB)(37)       Save

    With the evolution of next-generation network technologies, the complexity of network management has significantly increased, and the means of network attacks are diversified, bringing new challenges to network traffic classification. This paper presents a general AI-driven network traffic classification workflow and elaborates on a traffic data and feature engineering framework. Most importantly, it analyzes the concept and causes of data distribution shifts in network traffic, proposing detection methods and countermeasures. Experimental results on real traffic collected at different time intervals show that application evolution can induce data distribution shifts, which in turn lead to a noticeable degradation in traffic classification performance. Comparative drift detection experiments further confirm that such shifts are more evident over long-term intervals, while short-term traffic remains relatively stable. These findings demonstrate the necessity of incorporating drift-aware mechanisms into AI-driven network traffic classification systems.

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    AED-NeRF: Audio-Driven and Emotion- Editing Dynamic Neural Radiance Fields for Expressive Talking Face Avatar
    Lu Ping, Song Li, Shi Wenzhe, Lin Zonghao, Ling Jun
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 72-80.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601010
    Abstract61)   HTML1)    PDF (2799KB)(22)       Save

    While neural radiance field (NeRF) methods have shown promising results in generating talking faces, existing studies primarily focus on the correlation between avatars and driving sources. However, these studies often overlook emotion modeling, resulting in the generation of emotionless or unnatural facial animations. In response, this paper introduces an audio-driven and emotion-editing dynamic NeRF (AED-NeRF) approach, designed for the real-time generation of expressive talking face avatars driven by audio inputs. Specifically, we integrate audio features into a grid-based NeRF to compensate for the lack of a deformation channel, successfully capturing lip dynamics and enabling end-to-end generation from audio-driven sources to talking face avatars. Emotion labels, comprising emotion categories and intensity levels, guide the proposed NeRF framework to implicitly model visual emotions, allowing for explicit control and editing of facial expressions. Extensive qualitative and quantitative experiments validate the effectiveness and advantages of our proposed method, demonstrating its ability to achieve real-time, photo-realistic talking face avatar generation across different audio and emotion scenarios.

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    Enhancing Code Quality with LLM in Software Static Analysis
    Niu Zhi, Dong Luming
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 65-71.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601009
    Abstract59)   HTML1)    PDF (2505KB)(44)       Save

    In the modern era of ubiquitous and highly interconnected information technology, cybersecurity threats stemming from software code vulnerabilities have become increasingly severe, posing significant risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of modern information systems. To enhance software code quality, enterprises often integrate static code analysis tools into Continuous Integration (CI) pipelines. However, the high rates of false positives and false negatives remain a challenge. The advent of large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, presents a new opportunity to address these challenges. In this paper, we propose AI-SCDF, a framework that utilizes the custom-built Nebula-Coder AI model for detecting and fixing code security issues in real time during the developer’s personal build process. We construct a static code checking rule knowledge base through summarizing and classifying Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) code security problems identified by security and quality assurance teams. The rule knowledge base is combined with CodeFuse-processed code contexts to serve as input for an AI code security detection microservice, which assists in identifying code quality and security issues. If any abnormalities are detected, they are addressed by an AI code security patching microservice, which alerts the developer and requests confirmation before committing the code into the repository. Experimental results show that our approach effectively improves code quality. We also develop a VSCode plugin for code alert detection and fix based on LLMs, which facilitates test shift-left and lowers the risk of software development.

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    AI-Agent Communication Network (ACN): Architecture, Protocols and Key Technologies
    Sun Tao, Cui Yong
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (2): 1-2.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202602001
    Abstract55)   HTML2)    PDF (384KB)(10)       Save
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    AI Agent Centric Network: New Network Design Paradigm and Related Key Technologies
    Duan Xiangyang, Yang Li, Zhang Kangjie, Sun Wenwen, Xie Feng, Niu Li
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (2): 3-15.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202602002
    Abstract47)   HTML4)    PDF (556KB)(12)       Save

    The diverse and heterogeneous terminal artificial intelligence (AI) agents and network-element AI agents are flourishing in a flywheel-like manner. The new characteristics of their capabilities and behaviors will reshape the service paradigm and traffic logic of future mobile information networks. This article first elaborates on the dynamics of the intertwined and integrated development of the AI agent/robot industry and the wireless communication industry. Then, based on an analysis of the new capabilities and behavioral characteristics of terminal AI agents and network-element AI agents, the article deduces a new design paradigm for future AI agent-centric (AA-Centric) networks, which includes seven core features: intent-driven, proactive service, distributed collaboration, efficient customization, deterministic guarantee, online evolution, and infinite generation. Guided by this new paradigm, the new architecture of 6G networks is further deduced, and the key supporting technologies are expounded. Finally, it is concluded that AI agents play a crucial role in driving the innovation of future network architectures and the ultimate expansion of capabilities.

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    Steel Surface Anomaly Detection Using 3D Depth and 2D RGB Features
    Zheng Wangguandong, Lu Ping, Deng Fangwei, Huang Shijun, Xia Siyu
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 81-87.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601011
    Abstract47)   HTML1)    PDF (1975KB)(20)       Save

    The detection of steel surface anomalies has become an industrial challenge due to variations in production equipment, processes, and steel characteristics. To alleviate the problem, this paper proposes a detection and localization method combining 3D depth and 2D RGB features. The framework comprises three stages: defect classification, defect location, and warpage judgment. The first stage uses a data-efficient image Transformer model, the second stage utilizes reverse knowledge distillation, and the third stage performs feature fusion using 3D depth and 2D RGB features. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm achieves relatively high accuracy and feasibility, and can be effectively used in industrial scenarios.

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    Complexity-Reduced Equalization for 200 Gbit/s PON Downstream Systems Based on SSB Modulation and Direct Detection
    Yang Tao, Huang Xingang, Ma Zhuang, Zhong Yiming, Huang Xiatao, Liu Bo
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (1): 56-64.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202601008
    Abstract42)   HTML1)    PDF (2268KB)(29)       Save

    The 200 Gbit/s passive optical network (PON) is most likely to be the next-generation scheme following 50G PON. The cost-effective direct detection (DD) system is the economical choice. However, larger-capacity DD systems will face much more serious power fading caused by chromatic dispersion (CD) combined with square-law DD and thereby significantly increases the complexity of equalization algorithms. In this paper, a 200 Gbit/s Nyquist 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM4) single side-band (SSB) modulation-DD downlink scheme is designed, and a low complexity quadratic-nonlinear equalizer is proposed for this system. The computational complexity of the quadratic nonlinear equalizer is about 28% of that of the conventional Volterra nonlinear equalizer, while still exhibiting excellent nonlinear equalization ability. Simulation results for the 200 Gbit/s system with 20 km fiber transmission show that it can achieve a power budget of 29 dB, while a 30.4 dB power budget is obtained in the 50 Gbit/s experimental transmission.

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    The Dawn of 6G: Empowering a User-Centric Ecosystem with Agentic AI
    Gao Yin, Chen Jiajun, Liu Yansheng, Xiang Jiying
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (2): 43-51.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202602006
    Abstract38)   HTML0)    PDF (1900KB)(7)       Save

    The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) with the physical world is reshaping the future of intelligent systems through real-time perception, interaction, and control within physical environments. To support this new paradigm, 6G networks are envisioned as critical enablers, offering ultra-low latency, high reliability, and service-aware intelligence to facilitate seamless human-machine collaboration. This paper proposes a functional framework that integrates Agentic AI into the 6G architecture, introducing the concept of Agentic AI-Enabled 6G Network Services (AA6NS). In this framework, user intents are translated and processed across the application layer, core network (CN), and radio access network (RAN), where Agentic AI dynamically manages task-level quality of service/quality of experience (QoS/QoE), orchestrates multi-device service groups, and enables real-time network adaptation. The proposed architecture with the new 6G techniques establishes a foundation for future physical AI applications across domains such as autonomous mobility, smart manufacturing, and remote robotics.

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    Toward AI-Agent-Native 6G Networks: A Survey on Protocols, Multimodal Coordination, and ISCC-Driven Dynamic Networking
    Zhang Xiaotian, Xiao Han, Wang Dan, Huang Zhenglei, Xu Changqiao
    ZTE Communications    2026, 24 (2): 16-25.   DOI: 10.12142/ZTECOM.202602003
    Abstract33)   HTML0)    PDF (875KB)(6)       Save

    As 6G approaches, the proliferation of large language models (LLMs) and embodied intelligence is driving a paradigm shift from the Internet of Things (IoT) to the Internet of Agents (IoA). However, traditional network architectures, designed for content-agnostic data transmission, struggle to accommodate the bursty, reasoning-driven traffic patterns and rigorous multimodal synchronization requirements of autonomous agents. This paper surveys the AI-agent communication network (ACN), aiming to bridge the gap between static network resources and dynamic agent tasks. We analyze the evolution from bit-oriented transmission to agentic syntax protocols, which enable intent-based signaling and semantic compression. Furthermore, we explore mechanisms for multi-agent collaborative consensus and distributed decision-making under the constraints of unstable wireless environments. We critically focus on task-driven dynamic networking, examining how integrated sensing, communication, and computing (ISCC) and network-embedded agents (NEA) facilitate the real-time generation of task graphs and intent-aware traffic scheduling. To synthesize these technologies, we propose a reference framework, the Deep-Agentic Network Architecture (DAN-Arch), which vertically integrates physical-layer sensing with application-layer reasoning flows. Finally, open challenges regarding energy efficiency, cross-domain governance, and 3GPP standardization pathways are discussed to guide future research towards a fully agent-native 6G ecosystem.

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