Itron and Microsoft are accelerating fault detection through AI. Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving beyond analytics tools and into the infrastructure itself. The latest partnership between Itron and Microsoft demonstrates that this shift is no longer a vision of the future, but a real-world implementation happening today. Instead of sending data to centralized systems for processing, the new generation of solutions is based on processing data at the point where it is generated. In the context of water utilities, this means that sensors and devices across the network are no longer used solely to collect information—they can also analyze data instantly and respond in real time. In other words, a system enhanced with advanced AI capabilities can react immediately as conditions change. This approach is transforming the way water infrastructure is managed. Rather than reacting to problems after they occur, the system detects them immediately and automatically adapts its operation, reducing losses, extending infrastructure lifespan, and improving overall system stability. Artificial intelligence is no longer just an add-on—it is becoming an integral part of critical infrastructure. This is particularly important for water networks, many of which are aging and facing increasing pressure from climate change, urbanization, and rising water demand. Water utilities are gradually shifting from a reactive to a proactive operating model. Instead of simply analyzing data, the focus is moving toward immediate action—and this is where artificial intelligence delivers its greatest value. Itron catalog