Themes

The next phase of 5G rollouts, Release 17 and beyond, will drive the evolution of 5G towards a more versatile, reliable, and ubiquitous network. This advancement will support a broader range of applications and address the needs of various industries and user segments. This year, MWC will focus on the ROI from 5G networks through a combination of new revenue-generating services, cost reductions, strategic partnerships, regulation, and spectrum management. By leveraging the unique capabilities of 5G, network operators can unlock a wide array of opportunities across various sectors, transforming not only their own business models but also the industries they serve. 

The number of connected IoT devices is set to reach over 15 billion in two years, according to GSMAi. Connecting everything requires network solutions that are open, seamless, sustainable, and secure. Now more than ever, the growing and increasingly complex mobile ecosystem needs to collaborate; from cloud hyperscalers, systems integrators, AI, robotics, and automation, to mobile, fixed, and satellite providers. Only by collectively building more dynamic, automated, and cost-efficient networks can we truly realise the potential of connected technologies for businesses and consumers.

The convergence of significant technologies like AI, 5G, Edge, Cloud, quantum computing, and blockchain means that enterprises must constantly evolve and rethink their internal processes and business models. Workforces also need to adapt to the ever-increasing speed of change. Cybersecurity and systems resilience must keep up the pace to ensure the risks don’t outweigh the benefits. 

Enterprises are investing significant time and money into their digital strategies to ensure a competitive advantage. Technologies are broadening the competitive landscape, providing sustainable solutions that increase efficiency, performance, and decrease costs in every industry sector.

Looking ahead is always a tricky business, especially with the rise of technologies that have the potential to fundamentally change industry dynamics. Big data has shifted to small data as AI enables personalised experiences for every consumer. Record investment in quantum computing promises to solve problems up to 100 million times faster than traditional computers. Extended reality is breaking the boundaries between digital and physical worlds. Use cases and ecosystems continue to grow and change. Tomorrow’s technology begins today.

Across every industry, sustainability, diversity, ethics, and attracting new talent have extended beyond corporate social responsibility to become core strategic priorities. The speed, scale, and scope of technological evolution mean that attracting and retaining talent is more important than ever. 

Customers and potential employees identify with companies that have values beyond profit. Yet, the number of women in tech leadership roles has fallen significantly in the past year. While industry players adopt more circular approaches to operate in increasingly sustainable and energy-efficient ways, we are still falling short of reaching our UN targets. Given the influence of technology across business and society today, it is critical that the impact on and responsibility to society are considered from inception. 

Our digital future is emerging, and it’s vital to implement change by making considerations around societal impact part of Our Digital DNA