Thought leadership themesat MWC26 Barcelona

The digital backbone of our age is being rewired. Intelligent Infrastructure at MWC26 Barcelona explores how next-generation networks, AI-driven automation, cloud and edge computing, and open architectures are transforming connectivity from a cost centre into a strategic value platform. From 5G Advanced and private networks to satellite, NTN, and quantum-ready data centres, we’ll demonstrate how AI-powered, automated infrastructure enhances efficiency, scalability, and resilience. This transformation not only unlocks new industrial capabilities but also safeguards sovereignty, accelerates data-driven decision-making, and underpins a low-carbon, sustainable future.

Networks are getting brains as well as bandwidth. ConnectAI reveals how AI and machine learning are automating planning, slicing, and operations, while telcos expose powerful data and APIs back to the AI ecosystem. Expect the rise of distributed AI at the edge, enabling ultra-low latency and edge inference, alongside AI-powered devices for smarter, more efficient operations. From self-optimising radios and predictive cybersecurity to a new class of AI-powered services and Agentic AI systems that can make autonomous decisions, ConnectAI will showcase how these innovations are generating fresh revenue streams, increasing lifetime customer value, and driving the shift towards an AI Native Telco.

Every organisation is becoming a data company. AI 4 Enterprise showcases pragmatic, sector-specific intelligence that boosts productivity, reduces risk and accelerates growth. We’ll dive into predictive maintenance on the factory floor, real-time fraud prevention in fintech, digital twins in logistics and agentic AI that empowers the workforce. Security, governance and ROI are front and centre, ensuring transformation is both trusted and sustainable.

Generative, multimodal and quantum-enhanced AI are converging fast. AI Nexus is where businesses, policy makers and creators tackle the opportunities - and obligations - of this new era. Discover hyper-personalised experiences, autonomous decision makers, responsible governance frameworks and the rise of sovereign AI stacks. Together we’ll define standards that balance innovation, ethics and human collaboration.

Connectivity, and the access to transformative technology that it enables, must empower, not exclude. Tech 4 All explores inclusive innovation, from resilient national digital infrastructures and open platforms to climate-tech, digital literacy and financing models for the Global South. We’ll debate tech-sovereignty, data rights and the policies needed to ensure everyone shares in the economic and social dividends of the digital world.

Breakthrough ideas start here. Game Changers spotlights the technologies poised to redraw industry boundaries: space-borne networks, blockchain-enabled energy markets, autonomous systems, next-gen interfaces and moon-shot materials science. Hear visionary founders, investors and scientists challenge convention, map exponential trajectories and spark partnerships that will define the next decade.