The upcoming 20th edition of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona is poised to be a showcase for artificial intelligence, reflecting a significant shift in technological discourse. As industry focus pivots towards AI, attendees might find themselves amidst a landscape dominated by themes such as “AI for Enterprise,” “AI Nexus,” “ConnectAI,” and “Intelligent Infrastructure,” indicating a comprehensive embrace of AI in the telecommunications sector.
This year’s emphasis on artificial intelligence marks a stark contrast to prior events, particularly the 2025 MWC, which featured a broader spectrum of topics including digital transformation, cloud computing, and 5G technology. The increasing prominence of AI is evident, with the 2026 themes largely centering around transforming AI from a theoretical concept into a practical, monetizable asset for businesses and society. GSMA CMO Lara Dewar described this pivot as the dawn of the “IQ Era,” emphasizing the integration of AI, connectivity, and computing to address societal challenges more effectively.
Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, noted the remarkable evolution of MWC over the years, from a platform primarily focused on mobile phones to one that encompasses various facets of daily life. Wood reminisced about the event’s past, which was characterized by the smartphone wars spurred by the launch of Apple’s iPhone and subsequent developments in operating systems that revolutionized the mobile landscape. The introduction of 4G technology further propelled discussions about maximizing bandwidth, leading to the current AI-centric narrative.
Despite its rich history in mobile hardware, recent iterations of MWC have seen fewer new devices unveiled, prompting some industry observers to lament the decline of hardware showcases. The last significant hardware spotlight came with the launch of foldable smartphones in 2019. However, numerous Chinese manufacturers continue to unveil innovative devices at the event, albeit through independent launches. Brands such as Honor are expected to debut their latest models, including laptops, tablets, phones, and the much-anticipated “RoboPhone.”
Huawei, another key player, will showcase an extensive range of products in Hall 3, including mobile devices. Other notable attendees such as Oppo, Xiaomi, and OnePlus will also present their latest offerings, reflecting the ongoing vibrancy of the mobile sector. Lenovo is likely to reveal new office-focused devices, including Yoga and ThinkPad laptops, along with tablets and monitors. Samsung is expected to unveil its S26 range, the Trifold smartphone, and various models of the GalaxyBook launched at CES 2026.
As MWC returns to the Fira Grand Via, attendees can anticipate a diverse array of technological advancements. The event’s expansive layout, encompassing eight halls, promises a rich tapestry of innovations, leaving industry watchers eager to see how the convergence of AI and connectivity will unfold. With a growing sense of anticipation, the 20th MWC may very well set the tone for the future of technology, as it seeks to redefine the boundaries of connectivity and intelligence in the digital age.
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