Thought leadership themesat MWC Barcelona 2025

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, addressing the needs of various industries and user segments.  

This year, MWC25 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.  

MWC25 looks at how our growing and increasingly complex mobile ecosystem can collaborate better – from cloud hyperscalers, systems integrators and innovators in 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. 

Generative AI continues to create headlines. But, while the pace of change is both disruptive and exciting, it’s important to focus through the lens of practical deployment and impact.  

At MWC25, we’ll be doing just that. Exploring the optimisation of processes and tools to accelerate transformation in the network or cloud. Understanding new levels of natural interaction between people and computers to deliver personalised experiences. Analysing what’s at the heart of this transformation – data and data management. And considering the many ethical issues, from security to bias and talent development. 

How are enterprises adapting to and keeping pace with significant technological changes and transformations? 

The convergence of critical technologies such as AI, 5G, Edge Computing, Cloud, Quantum Computing, Computer Vision and Blockchain requires organisations to evolve and rethink their internal processes and business models continuously. Agility is king when you are facing ever accelerating rates of change. 

Join us to learn how enterprises invest substantial time and resources into their digital strategies to secure a competitive advantage.

We recognise that today's groundbreaking technologies are set to revolutionise and launch tomorrow's businesses. Among those – quantum computing, which promises to solve problems up to 100 million times faster; extended reality, pushing the boundaries of interaction; and artificial intelligence, reshaping industries one by one. 

This track will feature the latest use cases and insightful discussions on how these transformative technologies will redefine our future.

Our society is experiencing a profound shift in priorities from digital evolution to ecological transformation. In this context, technology companies worldwide must realign their values to reflect this new reality, prioritising environmental sustainability, gender equality, and social responsibility. 

We all have a stake in this movement—join us to discover how you can be part of the change.