Mobile World Congress (MWC) showcased key tech trends that signal where the industry is headed. The show highlighted various innovations, including new business models, 6G, quantum computing, agentic AI, and more.
Operators trying to succeed in over-the-top (OTT) services are focusing on customer needs and building services that extend the connectivity platform. However, this requires innovation and flexibility, as the service provider industry is built on replicability.
The AI-RAN Alliance remains unchallenged for now, with its technology-agnostic approach ensuring an open and inclusive ecosystem. While some members have expressed interest in alternative solutions, there are no immediate plans to join the alliance due to existing partnerships.
6G, which is still in its early stages, received moderate attention at MWC. The industry is more focused on 5G standalone and 5G Advanced deployments, leaving room for 6G to take center stage once it’s better understood.
Scalable qubits are crucial for quantum computing, but this poses a significant challenge due to the need for extremely low temperatures and stable conditions. Nokia Bell Labs claims to be working on a scalable qubit concept that holds promise.
Agentic AI is a significant evolution in AI, enabling dynamic and autonomous systems. Cisco’s Kevin Wollenweber sees substantial growth potential for agentic AI, citing predictions of a larger inference market than the training market.
In other news, rumors about MWC 2026 moving location were debunked, as it was likely due to the launch of an MWC25 event in Doha, Qatar.
Source: https://www.fierce-network.com/wireless/mwc-top-6-takeaways-barcelona