Where will technology take us next?

Welcome to New Frontiers.

Out here you’ll find audacious, challenging, transformative technology – mind-expanding ideas that don’t just push the boundaries of innovation, they smash right through them.

In this immersive, future-focused space we’ll investigate breakthrough technologies poised to profoundly impact connectivity, industry and our daily lives.

Offering a curated programme of demos, speakers, summits and targeted networking, New Frontiers is designed as both a platform for discovery and a launchpad for exploration and collaboration.

Innovation spotlight at MWC27 Meet the tech changing everything

Quantum technologies

No longer confined to code, AI is taking physical form. A new AI-enabled workforce of AVs, drones, humanoid robots and smart wearables is here – in the air, on our roads and performing increasingly complex tasks in warehouses, factories, hospitals and homes.

As AI steps out of the virtual into reality, we looked at the potential and possibilities this is creating for our ecosystem, as these intelligent, interactive machines drive unprecedented demand for high-bandwidth, ultra-low latency and hyper-reliable connectivity.

We also showcased solutions and services giving AI the senses needed to successfully navigate our physical world – enabling smarter cities, more responsive healthcare and seamless mobility, while also upending industry and manufacturing.

Activities

Quantum Technologies Summit: identifying key quantum technology use cases and understanding where the telco industry needs to prioritise investment and resources.
Demo Sessions on New Frontiers Stage

Features

Quantum Telco Zone: exhibition showcase of real-life use cases and demos.

The telecommunications industry, as a key enabler of a digital, connected society, has been at the intersection of global, disruptive change. Quantum technologies are beginning to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible, and there is an opportunity to unlock revolutionary capabilities for next generation networks and all the vertical industries that use them. IBM, as a global leader in quantum computing, with a broad ecosystem of partners aimed at bringing useful quantum computing to the world, welcomes the GSMA’s 'New Frontiers' initiative to explore how quantum technologies can shape the mobile industry. This is the dawn of an exciting chapter, defined by new possibilities and new opportunities that will empower individuals, industries and communities."

Lory Thorpe, IBM Research

Exhibitors

Satellite and Non-Terrestrial Networks

As 5G moves toward global coverage, satellite and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) are expanding connectivity far beyond traditional cell towers — bridging the digital divide in rural, remote and underserved regions.

We see NTN as a core New Frontier technology, allowing mobility to transcend national borders and natural barriers. At MWC 2026, we explored the essential role this next-generation layer of infrastructure plays in helping mobile operators ensure uninterrupted global coverage, especially for critical IoT and mission-driven applications.

We also looked at what this means for consumers and enterprises – seamless global roaming, enhanced emergency response and new economic opportunities in previously unreachable areas.

Activities

Satellite & NTN Summit
Exciting demo sessions on New Frontiers Stage

Features

GSMA Foundry and European Space Agency showcase: exhibition of real-life use cases and demos.

Exhibitors

Physical AI

As AI steps out of the virtual into reality, our frontier tech spotlight looked at the potential and possibilities this creates for our ecosystem, as these intelligent, interactive machines drive unprecedented demand for high-bandwidth, ultra-low latency and hyper-reliable connectivity. 

We also showcased the solutions and services giving AI the senses needed to successfully navigate our physical world – enabling smarter cities, more responsive healthcare and seamless mobility, while also upending industry and manufacturing. 

Activities

Real-time AI Experience: F1 Circuit de Catalunya, Digital Twin Racing

Features

Physical AI demo sessions on New Frontiers Stage

Exhibitors

Get involved to show the world what comes next

Join the companies creating the technologies of tomorrow. Whether you want to exhibit, sponsor or design a tailored activation, our sales team can guide you through the best options for New Frontiers.

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