7 Insights and Discoveries from MWC 2024
Mobile World Congress, the telecom business’s yearly February meeting in Barcelona, has become an event that showcases the latest technological advances. This year’s subject focused on future technologies and how they are bursting with opportunities that can only be completely reached through teamwork and a unified front.
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So, get ready to learn about what to expect in the future.
1. Fresh approach to spectrum licensing in the EU
EU Commissioner Thierry Breton suggested an innovative method for spectrum licensing, with the goal of strengthening telecom networks by favouring speedy deployment above financial bids. Breton’s plan, highlighted within the context of the Digital Networks Act, aims to improve technical leadership, foster a fair Digital Single Market, and strengthen network resilience and security. The new licensing mechanism focuses on satisfying Europe’s expanding digital infrastructure requirements more effectively.
2. Diversity in telecom is flourishing
The event clearly illustrated that diversity in the telecom business is booming. The development of the mobile ecosystem is crucial for identifying new business opportunities and pioneering investments. Notably, more than 50% of the attendees come from businesses other than conventional telecoms, demonstrating the sector’s transition toward a more inclusive approach. This thirst for multidisciplinary collaboration, with telecom at its foundation, is pushing global company progress and revealing possibilities that were never before possible.
3. AI to support RAN and mobile networks
AI was definitely the star of the show, emphasising its role as a frontier yet to be picked up by many businesses. However, the revelation that AWS, Ericsson, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Samsung Electronics, and T-Mobile USA had joined together to establish the AI-RAN Alliance was a surprise.
Such ground-breaking cooperation aims to integrate AI into cellular technologies, leading RAN technology and mobile networks into a new age. Its primary goal is to improve mobile network efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and modernise current infrastructure. This shift will reveal new economic opportunities and the introduction of 5G and 6G will serve as a catalyst.
The adoption of Open RAN and Open Gateway projects shows the telecom industry’s trend toward increased openness and collaboration, backed up by the advancement of AI and cloud-based handling of data.
4. Rapid development of wireless 5G
Massimo Peselli, Verizon’s CRO Global Enterprise & Public Sector, highlights the positive impact of 5G as a key driver for AI and a crucial enabler for edge computing solutions. However, it’s important to remember the challenges, one of which is the device’s ability to meet high standards.
Vendors must develop ways to adapt and sustain old infrastructure while easing the transition to the future, simultaneously remaining cost-effective for industrial uses.
5. Sustainability is a team sport
Despite discussing technical and business opportunities, no one forgets about the importance of green initiatives. As a result, Orange Business and Cisco have signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The deal is viewed as an essential step not just toward lowering their environmental impact, but also toward influencing the emissions of their corporate clients. Building a green future requires collaborative approaches and no one can stand aside.
6. Cybersecurity matters
The world today is hyper-connected and data-driven, so cybersecurity is not an IT issue it is now a business priority. The median expense of an information security breach has increased by nearly 30%, reaching $4.45 million per incident.
Sigve Brekke, CEO of Telenor, emphasised the commitment of mobile operators and the entire telecom sector to using their platforms for social improvement through a variety of projects. The younger generation should use their critical thinking while perceiving information.
Telecom companies are positioned as critical stakeholders in combating the transmission of illegal material and activities that propagate online disinformation and cyber risks.
7. Satellite connectivity is here to stay
Deutsche Telekom introduced its first satellite IT solutions, which include two unique bundles and a dedicated app store for satellite data applications. The IoT Hub platform provides easy interaction across all mobile services.
This new product allows firms in the farming, logistics, and maritime industries to acquire 1 GB of satellite data at a reasonable price. This advancement enables businesses to maintain connectivity and remotely oversee their operations, even in locations far from conventional internet coverage.
The necessary gear, such as satellite terminals or routers, might be reserved as an option. Installation services are also provided.
Summary
MWC 2024 created a dynamic environment for the global telecom sector, focusing on innovation. It provided a forward-looking perspective by highlighting blooming diversity, AI’s revolutionary role, 5G development, the importance of sustainability, and the relevance of cybersecurity. The industry will address future issues through collaborative efforts and strategic solutions.
We were happy to be a part of this fantastic show and ready to use the unique experience gained in our business. If you want discover some more details about the Mobile World Congress 2024, simply contact us.