The 20th edition of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona is set to highlight artificial intelligence, marking a pivotal change in the event’s thematic focus. This year, attendees can expect major discussions around topics including “AI for Enterprise,” “AI Nexus,” and “Intelligent Infrastructure,” showcasing the telecommunications industry's growing commitment to AI technologies.
In contrast to previous years, particularly the 2025 MWC, which addressed a wider array of subjects like cloud computing and 5G, this event is narrowing its scope to emphasize AI as a transformative asset. GSMA's chief marketing officer, Lara Dewar, has referred to this shift as the beginning of the “IQ Era,” highlighting the necessity of integrating AI with connectivity and computing.
Despite the MWC's rich history in mobile hardware, recent editions have seen a decline in new device launches, with the last significant hardware revelation occurring in 2019. Nevertheless, several Chinese manufacturers, including Honor and Huawei, are anticipated to showcase innovative devices such as laptops, tablets, and the much-anticipated “RoboPhone.” Other key brands, like Oppo, Xiaomi, and OnePlus, are also expected to present their latest technologies, illustrating the ongoing dynamism within the mobile sector.