Just like that, another Mobile World Congress has wrapped up! #MWC25 was packed with innovation and great opportunities to build meaningful connections as well as having some fun.
From AI-powered networks to next-gen 5G advancements, here are some our takeaways from this year’s event.
AI is everywhere
AI isn’t just a buzzword in the telco space. It’s transforming the entire telecoms landscape. From intelligent RAN optimisation to AI-driven business solutions, we saw applications that are set to redefine efficiency, automation, and customer experience. While there is potential, it comes with challenges, and the industry is pushing for better integration and user-friendly solutions. Subex, a telecom AI company showcased how its recent innovations leverage Generative AI for fraud investigation, enhancing detection and investigation capabilities so developed and emerging operators can stay ahead of evolving threats.
In his report from the show floor, IDC’s Ignacio Martinez De Lizarrondo, Data and Analytics Manager, pointed out that: “AI adoption is unstoppable, but it will take time: Samsung announced that over 200M devices already have AI capabilities. 70% of users have engaged with AI and frequent users have reached 27%. However, 56% of users still don’t fully trust AI, and surprisingly, Western Europe is the least confident with over 70% expressing distrust. The challenge ahead is not just improving AI but also building user confidence in its benefits and reliability.”
Seamless connectivity at scale
Satellite and multi-orbit networks are driving IoT expansion and closing connectivity gaps in remote areas. As demand for continuous, high-speed connections grows, innovations in this space will be key to enabling smarter cities, autonomous vehicles, and more. A good example of this is Netcracker Technology – a software company offering mission-critical solutions to service providers around the globe – launching its Digital Satellite Solution, a comprehensive blueprint for multi-orbit IT that revolutionises management, optimisation, and monetisation for satellite operators worldwide.
The drive for monetisation
Operators are moving from solely focusing on speed to creating monetisable, intelligent networks. AI is playing a central role in optimising network performance, improving security, and unlocking new revenue streams for telcos. The question now is: How can businesses best capitalise on these advancements? Huawei’s AI-driven network monetisation tech could be the answer and was recognised for innovation at MWC. Huawei, a global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices and recently launched intent-driven AI-Centric 5.5G solutions to help operators seize emerging opportunities by enabling diverse AI application experiences, efficient O&M with high-level network autonomy, and multi-factor business monetisation.
Data, data, data and more data
Despite the sheer volume of data being generated, many businesses still lack the software tools to extract real value from it. AI-driven analytics is critical for turning raw data into actionable insights. Anritsu Service Assurance, a provider of network monitoring and assurance solutions announced a strategic partnership with Ookla a leading authority in network intelligence and connectivity insights. Their work demonstrates how network analytics and user experiences are enabling operators to take a more proactive approach to service assurance.
AI and the telecoms ecosystem
The growing importance of collaboration between telecom operators and technology providers was clear. AI is not only enhancing network efficiency but also driving new service innovations that cater to evolving customer needs. Tech Mahindra, a global consulting service and systems integrator is on a mission to not only help organisations harness AI’s speed, but to do it at scale. They work with organisations to realise the benefits of AI with the right ecosystem and leverage data and AI assets to scale up on AI. These partnerships will be essential in scaling AI-driven solutions and ensuring that the telecoms industry can fully harness AI’s potential.
Regulation and investment
The European Commission is recognising the need for regulatory flexibility to encourage greater investment in technology. As AI and connectivity evolve at breakneck speed, smart policies will be crucial in fostering innovation while ensuring ethical and secure implementations.
A few weeks before MWC, European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, delivered a speech on the European Union’s AI aims at the Paris AI Summit. Some quote highlights below talk to key priorities going forward.
“We aim to mobilise a total of 200 billion euros ($206.38 billion) for AI investment in Europe…AI needs competition, but AI also needs collaboration, and AI needs the confidence of the people, and has to be safe…We want AI to be a force for good. We want an AI where everyone collaborates and everyone benefits. This is our path. This is our European path.”
We agree with the European Commission – a considerate, thoughtful approach to AI adoption and regulation is the best path forward.
At MWC 2025, AI was the shining star. But that’s not all the news. There’s plenty of exciting innovation and emerging technologies that will continue to shake up the telco sector. And we’re here for it, we’re already looking forward to MWC 2026!
