The Mobile World Congress (MWC), the largest global event in the connectivity and digital technology industry, concluded its 2024 edition in Barcelona with a record-breaking attendance of nearly 101,000 attendees, surpassing the organization’s forecasts. The GSMA association praised the “energy and vitality” of the event, which saw more than 2,700 exhibitors, sponsors, and partners, as well as about 1,100 speakers.
Artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as the standout technology at the event, with many firms showcasing new AI-related products and processes. Mobile phones like Samsung’s already incorporate AI tools for translation and photo editing. Analysts at the congress agreed that AI was the clear “winner” of the event, with expectations for it to continue dominating discussions in the coming years.
The deployment of high-capacity 5G networks was also a key focus of the event, with speakers emphasizing the importance of these networks for technologies like autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and industrial automation. However, there were concerns about the lagging 5G coverage in Europe compared to other regions, with calls for greater investment in infrastructure.
Overall, the MWC 2024 demonstrated the industry’s commitment to AI and the expansion of 5G networks, with notable presentations from industry leaders like Google DeepMind’s Demis Hassabis and Microsoft’s Brad Smith. The event showcased the latest innovations and trends shaping the future of connectivity and technology.