For three days, global telecommunications and technology sector stakeholders will meet to discuss an ever-smart and connected world and exchange insights and innovations. 

The Mobile World Congress, in Barcelona, Spain, has drawn nearly 96,000 registrants for this year’s event, which opened on February 26, according to Mats Granryd, Managing Director of the Global System Operators Association (GSMA). This marks an increase from last year’s attendance of approximately 90,000.

The Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC 2024), officially inaugurated by King Felipe VI, is focusing not only on connectivity but also on all related sectors. "As connectivity brings us together, technology opens possibilities – with connectivity driving a fusion of technology and purpose across all sectors, enabling new possibilities. This week is all about exploring the future's potential for businesses and society," said Mats Granryd.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the most prominent segment at this year’s event, with public adoption of generative AI, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, gaining traction since its introduction in November 2022. The tech community and governments are currently considering the practical applications, economic implications, ethical use regulations, and safety concerns of generative AI.

Other key topics to be discussed at the event include connected and electric cars, cloud computing, 5G and 6G technology, and the transformation of telecom operators.

MWC 2024 also presents an opportunity to explore the latest tech gadgets, including wrist smartphones, connected watches, laptops, and tablets. Major broadband industry players such as Orange, Vodafone, Telefonica, and China Mobile will be in attendance, along with leading tech companies like Huawei, Samsung, Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, Infobip, and Nokia.

The startup ecosystem is well represented, with a dedicated space for tech entrepreneurs and an African delegation featuring companies like Ghana’s Farmerline, Benin’s FedaPay, and Senegal’s Lafricainemobile.

The event, which concludes on February 29, is expected to foster numerous partnerships for the advancement of global connectivity and digital transformation among private, public, and public-private entities.

Muriel Edjo