MWC Barcelona 2024 launches ‘Future First’ theme
Event convenes tech, innovation, and global bonding
GSMA, the organiser of MWC Barcelona (Mobile World Capital), has revealed a future-driven theme and a stellar lineup of speakers for the iconic global mobile technology ecosystem taking place from February 26-29, 2024, at the Fira Gran Via venue of Fira Barcelona under the theme of ‘Future First.’
The 18th edition of MWC Barcelona – the world’s largest and most influential connectivity event – aims to tackle present and future challenges.
6 subthemes
Six subthemes, including 5G and Beyond, Connecting Everything, Humanising AI, Manufacturing DX, Game Changers, and Our Digital DNA, will shape the discussions and presentations throughout the five-day event.
Two new distinguished names have joined the speakers’ lineup, adding to this year’s engaging programmes that span the entire mobile ecosystem.
Carmen Artigas, Co-chair of the UN’s AI Advisory Board, and Sir Konstantin Sergeevich Novoselo, Professor at the National University of Singapore and 2010 Nobel Prize winner in Physics, will join other connectivity leaders in delivering keynotes.
Convergence point
Lara Dewar, GSMA Chief Marketing Officer, emphasised the shift from ‘Mobile First’ to ‘Future First,’ highlighting MWC Barcelona as a convergence point for industries, technologies, and communities to explore the potential for sustainability.
The 10th edition of 4YFN, the start-up and innovation platform at MWC Barcelona, will take centre stage.
Over the past decade, the platform has connected thousands of exhibitors and founders with investors. To mark its 10th anniversary, 4YFN will feature four stages, hosting the 4YFN Awards, pitching competitions, and keynotes from influential figures like Sara Bisbe and Chema Alonso.
Partner programmes
Partner programmes from Amazon, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, ESADE, GSK, and the Institute for Information Industry will be part of the celebration.
Journey to the Future, Sports Tomorrow Congress, Connected Industries, and the invitation-only GSMA Ministerial Programme are set to return this year.
Watch the video here:
Journey to the Future will explore technologies in health, AI, mobility, sustainability, accessibility, and retail.
Sports Tomorrow Congress, presented by the Barça Innovation Hub, will delve into how mobile technology transforms sports, drawing on FC Barcelona’s expertise.
Connected Industries will focus on vertical innovations in manufacturing, smart mobility, fintech & mobile commerce, and entertainment.
The GSMA Ministerial Programme, the world’s largest gathering of policymakers and industry leaders, will address crucial topics such as network investment, spectrum availability, and the Usage Gap.
In addition to the tech-centric activities, MWC Barcelona will feature authentic food, networking, and entertainment spaces.
Beat Barcelona will offer a relaxed networking space with culinary experiences and live concerts.
The Meet & Eat space, in partnership with L’Hospitalet City Council, will return for its ninth year, bringing local chefs and artists for attendees to enjoy.
New ambassador
To diversify its ambassadorship, GSMA has announced the Barça Women’s striker and Women’s African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, as the ambassador for the Breaking Barriers campaign.
Oshoala will leverage her platform as a footballer and the Asisat Oshoala Foundation to address challenges contributing to the Usage Gap, such as handset affordability, literacy, and digital skills.
Certified carbon-neutral for a decade, MWC Barcelona holds the Guinness World Record as ‘The World´s Largest Carbon Neutral Trade Show.’
GSMA is the London, UK-headquartered trade body for the worldwide technology communications and connectivity industry.
With the Barcelona show as its flagship event, GSMA hosts MWC Kigali, MWC Las Vegas, MWC Shanghai, and M360 Series.
MWC Barcelona 2023 registered 89,000+ attendees (50% being directors and above, an increase of 45% compared to 2022) and 2,400+ exhibitors from 202 countries and territories.
Featured image: MWC Barcelona is the flagship event of GSMA. Image: © 2023 GSMA/MWC
