Artificial intelligence was the dominant theme at the opening of Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 on Monday, as global technology companies unveiled new AI-driven products and network innovations at the sprawling annual trade show.
Organisers said around 2,900 exhibitors and more than 1,200 speakers are taking part in this year’s event, held at the Fira Gran Via in Barcelona under the theme “The IQ Era”.
In his opening keynote, Vivek Badrinath, director general of the GSMA, the industry body behind MWC, said the mobile sector is entering a “new stage of development”. He called for concerted action to deepen deployment of advanced mobile networks, tackle AI‑related challenges and strengthen digital security.
“We must accelerate investment in standalone 5G and build AI systems that are open, inclusive and governed responsibly,” he told delegates.
Major technology firms used the opening day to highlight how artificial intelligence is reshaping mobile devices and connectivity. Samsung Electronics showcased expanded AI capabilities across its Galaxy ecosystem, emphasising personalised and intuitive experiences powered by its Galaxy AI platform.
Exhibitors also demonstrated how AI is being built into networks and infrastructure. At Huawei’s stand, the company presented its latest AI‑centric network solutions intended to support intelligent services and a smooth evolution from 5G‑Advanced to future 6G technologies.
“These solutions embed intelligence across multiple layers of the network to unlock the full potential of connected AI applications,” a company spokesperson said at the event.
Device makers such as Honour and Xiaomi captured attention with innovative hardware blending robotics and AI. Honour unveiled its Robot Phone, an AI‑enabled device with advanced tracking and movement capabilities, while Xiaomi displayed next‑generation smartphones with enhanced intelligent features.
Industry analysts noted that this year’s congress reflects a broader shift in the technology sector from traditional performance upgrades towards systems and products that integrate artificial intelligence at every level.
“AI isn’t just an add‑on anymore, it’s the backbone of the mobile industry’s next phase,” said a participant.
MWC 2026 runs in Barcelona from 2 to 5 March, bringing together telecommunications operators, device makers, software developers and policy makers from around the world to discuss the future of connectivity and digital innovation.
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