Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona ended on March 5 after four days, highlighting telecoms’ shift from mobile technology toward AI. South Korea’s three carriers advanced plans to become AI-focused companies, unveiling AI models, enterprise platforms and voice-based agents. Chinese firms including Huawei, Xiaomi and Honor drew attention with large booths and new products, while major carriers launched a mobile AI initiative with GSMA. The event also expanded debate on 6G, AI network operations, smart glasses and non-terrestrial networks.

Chinese companies had a prominent presence at MWC26 in Barcelona, unveiling AI-based solutions, robots and smart devices. Huawei showcased a wide range of technologies and drew crowds to its 1,200 sq m booth. Xiaomi introduced its Xiaomi 17 series and an AI-driven ecosystem, while Honor demonstrated a robot phone and humanoid robots. China’s three major carriers launched a “Mobile AI Innovation Initiative” with GSMA.