As a forward-thinking professional, I love going to big mega-shows like MWC and CES to witness the amazing advances that are shaping our future. For me, this event has personal significance as it sets the stage for the commercialization of breakthrough technologies in the coming years. At this year’s MWC, the MarketsandMarkets team and I felt like it was bigger and better than ever, buzzing with an energy that not even the coronavirus of the past few years could dampen. Join us as the MarketsandMarkets team and I dig into the highlights and observations we made from his B2B perspective during his MWC this year.
6G talks in full swing: paving the way for the future of connectivity
While we haven’t fully embraced 5G Advanced or even 5G Standalone yet, the buzz around 6G was evident at MWC. Technology vendors and some mobile carriers unveiled their long-term vision for connectivity services in the 6G era. While use cases are still taking shape, initial discussions point to a future of ubiquitous intelligent networks that prioritize security, resiliency, sustainability, and privacy. Imagine a world of immersive communications, ultra-low latency, and integrated AI. This is what the future will look like.We asked an expert what he meant by 6G, and his answer came down to: 1) AI integration and quantum security 2) Virtualization and native 3) Satellite and seamless connectivity
Space Jam: The reality of satellite-based communications
Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos’ ambitious dream of harmoniously integrating cellular, WiFi, and satellite connectivity has become a reality at MWC. Additionally, AI allows you to choose the best network based on real-time traffic conditions to maintain the customer experience. One of his notable highlights was that a United Arab Emirates-based company (Thuraya) unveiled his Android-based smartphone with a retractable satellite communication antenna. This breakthrough technology gives users the flexibility to route calls over cellular networks or satellite, seamlessly ensuring an optimal customer experience based on real-time traffic conditions. The era of space communication has arrived!
New players emerge: Chinese and Middle Eastern companies enter the race
Similar to the dominance of Chinese companies at the IAA in Munich, MWC witnessed the undeniable presence of Chinese technology innovators. Companies such as Huawei, Xiaomi, China Mobile, China Telecom, and ZTE have demonstrated superior capabilities in future trends such as connected living, quantum computing, 5GA/6G, robotics, and AR/VR, and are leveraging cutting-edge technologies. was unveiled. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern players asserted themselves as technology innovators and early adopters of breakthrough solutions. In particular, STC and Tonomus flourished as sponsors of major events, reinforcing the region’s transition to a pioneering technology hub.
Urban air mobility: the not-so-distant future of transportation
Flying cars are no longer the stuff of science fiction. MWC showcased significant advances in urban air mobility (UAM), not only in the technology itself, but also in the development of the infrastructure required for air taxis. This has the potential to revolutionize transportation and redefine the urban landscape. Imagine the freedom and convenience of urban air mobility becoming an integral part of our lives. I’m looking forward to seeing a real live demo at the Paris Olympics that will literally propel this industry forward.
Immersive digital solutions: Reclaiming the industrial metaverse
The Metaverse seems to be making a comeback, with multiple vendors showing what it means with AR, VR, and XR. Additionally, digital twins, once just a topic of discussion, have reached a tipping point. The conversation has moved from “if” to “how” as decision makers seek to unlock the value of their 3D immersive applications. Sectors such as manufacturing and healthcare are adopting this technology with great interest, although hardware capabilities and pricing remain challenging.
Connected Living: Shaping the Future of Interconnection
I conducted a session on connected cars, exploring the transition to a world of connected living, where connectivity goes beyond personal devices and encompasses cities and communities. The vehicles themselves have become an essential component of connected living, presenting an opportunity to generate significant incremental revenue of approximately $500 per year per vehicle.
Connected car session underway at MWC24
GSMA
Connected Industries: Experience takes center stage
While Industry 4.0 and smart mobility undoubtedly dominated conversations about the connected enterprise, a major shift towards sports, media, entertainment, and mobile commerce was evident at MWC. Vendors creatively demonstrated how they leverage technologies such as networks and communications platforms as a service (CPaaS) to create engaging experiences. The focus has shifted to providing great user experiences across various industries.
conclusion
As we say goodbye to this year’s Mobile World Congress, we are strengthened in our belief that technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us. Personal encounters and awe-inspiring technology left an indelible mark on my vision of the future. As these trends continue to evolve, my team and I at MarketsandMarkets remain committed to staying ahead of the curve and providing insights and guidance to help businesses navigate this transformative situation. The world is poised for a paradigm shift, and we have a front row seat to witness it.
This article was co-authored with my colleague Katyayan Gupta, who leads technology advisory at MarketsandMarkets.
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