1. A Bit of History
More than 101,000 visitors are expected (although the way visitor numbers are counted is a topic worth discussing), which matches the attendance recorded in 2024. If we take a brief look at history and examine the statistics, we can see that the peak attendance was reached between 2017 and 2019, when the organizing body (GSMA) reported 108,000, 107,000, and 109,000 visitors, respectively.
Since this is a forum for MVNOs, it is worth noting that the representation of our sector, as well as solutions aimed at virtual operators, could be considered somewhat limited given the scale of the Congress.
On the other hand, this event provides an excellent opportunity to meet numerous industry representatives and share our solutions with them. However, we all know that the time available for each meeting is limited, as most attendees have overloaded schedules—often difficult to follow due to continuous encounters with industry acquaintances and even challenges in finding a restaurant where one can enjoy a relatively peaceful dinner. It is quite common to hear comments about supplier X hosting operator Y at a restaurant, only to find competitors from both sides in the same room.
2. As a MVNOs, What Can We Expect?
Having had the opportunity to attend the congress for many years—especially from 2019 to the present, including that unusual 2021 edition in June with completely empty hallways—I can say that certain topics tend to be repeatedly discussed, reflecting the state of the market.
5G
For years, we have seen countless presentations and demonstrations of 5G as the great revolution in future communications—drones, autonomous cars, and smart cities—that, to this day, remain more of a future expectation than a reality. As MVNOs, the most we can expect in the short term is to follow the rest of the operators in announcing the ability to offer 5G services, which ultimately translate to higher-capacity and higher-speed access.
Source: 3gpp.org
6G
Although I already saw some glimpses of sixth-generation technology at the last congress, a quick look at the previous timeline and a visit to 3GPP’s website make it clear that it is still too early to focus on this technology.
Open All!
Another concept I expect to see repeatedly across numerous booths and presentations at the Congress is Open Gateway. As I described in my last blog entry, “Network Delayering & Open Gateway: MVNOs in Telecom Transformation”, this seems to be a strong trend for 2025. As ServCos, we must be prepared to position ourselves accordingly.
Satellite Communications
This is another innovation I am certain we will encounter in different areas of the event. The race to cover our skies with small communication satellites—offering direct-to-device connectivity, as promoted by Starlink—could change the way MVNOs (or any other type of ServCo) provide access to their users in many parts of the world.
AI
At MWC 2024, a total of 41 sessions were dedicated to AI and its responsible applications. I suspect that in 2025, this number will increase significantly, making AI the central theme of the entire event. And here, I must say that as MVNOs, we can find many opportunities for differentiation.
Our blog currently features seven AI-related articles, and Tanya’s approach in her series “Winning in the Data Economy” is particularly insightful. Other articles focus on the use of AI to enhance customer support, improve user experience through a smarter digital onboarding process, and implement solutions that help us deliver excellent service while reducing human costs and improving margins.
Since I don’t have a crystal ball, I can’t predict every new development we’ll encounter at MWC 2025. However, given AI’s increasing prominence in daily news, I am confident it will be the central focus—alongside the other key topics I’ve mentioned.
3. Is This My Kind of Event as an MVNO?
Well, I can’t say no—attending in person is essential to seeing many of the latest innovations firsthand. This means carefully planning the agenda and scheduling numerous meetings with the goal of exploring what the market has to offer.
As a consultant, I’m fortunate that some of the key players have invited me to visit them due to the various projects we’re involved in. However, from the pure perspective of a mobile virtual operator, MWC may not be the ideal environment.
Let me explain—networking is crucial in our industry. Having the opportunity to stay closely connected with suppliers, colleagues, and peers allows for more in-depth discussions about visions, solutions, and even more relaxed moments, like sharing a cocktail. And, as I mentioned, the Mobile World Congress is not necessarily the perfect setting for that kind of interaction. I have to highlight other specialized conferences in our sector, such as the recently held MVNO Nation event in Valencia (how could I not support my home turf? 😊) or the upcoming event in Miami in a few months. These gatherings take a much more personal, networking-oriented approach, even if they don’t attract the same volume of visitors as MWC.
To wrap up, I look forward to seeing many of you in Barcelona next week—it will be a pleasure to find time in our busy schedules to connect, catch up, and, of course, share our solutions.
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