The Mobile World Congress (MWC) is the most important event in the world in the telecommunications and mobile technology sector. It is a congress and trade fair where the world’s leading companies present their innovations in networks, devices, software, artificial intelligence, 5G connectivity and emerging technologies.
It is also a key meeting point for industry leaders, start-ups, regulators and technology experts.
For us at Telefónica the MWC it is an essential platform for showcasing our innovation and leadership in the telecommunications sector. It is the place where we present our solutions in connectivity, network apification, quantum technologies…, to make a more connected and human world.
It is also a key space for closing strategic alliances with other companies and technology startups.
For example, in recent editions, we have used the MWC to announce the launch of services such as Aura, our AI, Open Gateway or to demonstrate how Telefónica’s 5G network is transforming key industries, among many other launches.
When was the MWC born?
The MWC was born in 1987 under the name ‘GSM World Congress’. Over time, it evolved into the global event we know today.
Telefónica has been present since the beginning.
How long has the MWC been held in Barcelona?
The MWC has been held in Barcelona since 2006. The selection of Barcelona as the venue has been very important for us as it allows us to have a prominent presence as hosts and technological leaders in each edition.
Until when will the Mobile World Congress be held in Barcelona?
The MWC will continue to be held in Barcelona until at least 2030. Telefónica, as one of the main players in the industry, supports this agreement because it reinforces Spain’s position as a world-leading technological hub.
What was the highlight of the MWC in 2024?
At MWC 2024, Telefónica was at the forefront with several initiatives and launches:
- First Steps of Open Gateway at Telefónica: since the presentation of Open Gateway at MWC 2023, Telefónica has been working on its implementation. In November 2023, in Brazil, together with TIM and Claro, we made the world’s first multi-telco commercial launch. During MWC 2024, new commercial launches in other markets were announced, demonstrating Telefónica’s commitment to this initiative.
- In the ‘Open Gateway’ demo, we showed the real case of the Copa del Rey ACB basketball tournament so that visitors could see the sporting event in an immersive way and we showed the capabilities of the Open Gateway APIs to give the user a never-before-seen sports experience.
- Commitment to sustainability: we announced new decarbonisation goals in our operations and highlighted equipment recycling and energy optimisation projects.
Where will the MWC be held in 2025?
The MWC 2025 will be held again in Barcelona, and Telefónica is already preparing its participation to show advances in key areas such as 6G, network apification, Open Gateway, Quantum-Safe or cybersecurity solutions.
Where in Barcelona does the MWC take place?
The MWC takes place at the Fira Gran Via exhibition centre, which every year becomes a centre for global innovation.
How many people attend the Mobile World Congress?
The event receives more than 100,000 attendees from 200 countries. At Telefónica, as global leaders in telecommunications, we use this opportunity to interact with customers and partners, as well as promoting start-ups through initiatives such as Wayra, our innovation accelerator.
Who organises the MWC?
The MWC is organised by the GSMA (Global System Mobile Communications), an association that brings together more than 750 mobile phone operators, of which Telefónica is a prominent member. Our collaboration with the GSMA includes contributing to the development
