MWC26 Barcelona Countdown Begins
The countdown to MWC26 Barcelona has officially started, as the GSMA announces the opening of registrations for the world's largest connectivity event. Scheduled to take place at the iconic Fira de Barcelona from March 2-5, 2026, this year's event commemorates twenty years of groundbreaking partnerships and innovations in the tech industry.
Under the theme "The IQ Era," MWC26 aims to enlighten participants about next-generation intelligence through enhanced connectivity. Over its two-decade history, the event has witnessed industry giants come together to share their visions, and this year is no exception.
Notable Speakers
The main stage of MWC26 will host influential thought leaders, including Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, and Michael Nicolls, Vice President of Engineering at Starlink. They will join other prominent figures such as:
- - Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel Group and GSMA Chair
- - Andrew Feinberg, President and CEO of BostonGene and Chairman of NetCracker
- - Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange Group
- - Mickey Mikitani, CEO of Rakuten
- - Kaan Terzioğlu, Group CEO of VEON
- - Benedict Evans, leading technology analyst
The speakers will discuss how connectivity drives transformation in various industries and dimensions of society.
Core Themes and Exhibitors
This year's agenda revolves around six pivotal themes: Intelligent Infrastructure, ConnectAI, AI 4 Enterprise, AI Nexus, Tech4All, and Game Changers. Each theme highlights the synergy between collective intelligence and connectivity in promoting technological progress.
Prominent exhibitors and sponsors for MWC26 will include:
- - Accenture
- - Amazon Web Services
- - Salesforce, China Mobile, and Deutsche Telekom
- - Meta, Microsoft, Tencent, and more
These organizations will showcase cutting-edge innovations and solutions aimed at changing the digital landscape.
Engaging Experiences
In addition to traditional sessions, MWC26 aims to offer engaging and immersive experiences. Noteworthy attractions will include:
- - New Frontiers: Showcasing breakthrough technologies like Quantum Computing and Satellite Communication, featuring live demos from esteemed innovators.
- - Airport of the Future: This exhibition will explore how connected technologies are redefining aviation and air travel, including interactive demonstrations from industry leaders such as Airbus.
- - CircuitX: A collaboration between GSMA Foundry and Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, showcasing advancements in smart mobility and immersive experiences.
- - 4YFN (4 Years From Now): Celebrating its 11th year, it will focus on the theme "Infinite AI," spotlighting the potential of human-machine collaboration.
Conclusion
Vivek Badrinath, Director General of GSMA, stated that MWC26 symbolizes the dawn of a new intelligence era. He emphasizes that the event continues to be the premier platform for innovators, policymakers, and thought leaders to converge and harness the power of connectivity for business and societal benefits. The anticipation builds as leaders and influencers prepare for a transformative experience at MWC26 in Barcelona.
For those interested, media members are encouraged to secure complimentary press passes and stay tuned for further updates on speaker announcements and additional experiences.
Don't miss out on the chance to be part of MWC26, an event that promises to reshape the future of connectivity!