MWC 2025 A Snapshot of the Changing Face of Telecoms

Barcelona, Spain — The telecom industry’s flagship event, MWC 2025, drew a record-breaking 109,000 attendees to Barcelona’s Fira Gran Via, matching the highest attendance in its history. The event marked a return to pre-pandemic vibrancy, with bustling streets, packed restaurants, and non-stop activity at the venue. Beyond the spectacle, the industry showcased its critical transition, grappling with 5G revenue challenges while adapting to AI, open APIs, and new market entrants.

AI Everywhere: From Promise to Practicality

Artificial intelligence was the defining theme of MWC 2025. Vendors across the floor highlighted AI’s shift from speculative hype to pragmatic, outcome-driven applications. Key among these was the rise of "agentic AI" — autonomous systems replacing traditional human roles in customer interactions, from plan selection to troubleshooting. AI’s impact extended to network management, where systems diagnose and resolve issues using historical data, reducing downtime and boosting resilience. However, AI’s potential as a revenue generator remains untapped, with its current contribution largely focused on cost efficiency.

New Respect for New Entrants

The boundaries between mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) continued to blur, with a new breed of lean, niche-focused entrants emerging. These players target specific segments like students, gamers, and digital consumers, offering tailored services beyond price competition. Notably, MNOs are increasingly viewing MVNOs as strategic allies, enabling them to reach underserved markets more effectively. This shift reflects a broader industry move toward specialization and ecosystem collaboration.

APIs and Satellites Signal New Revenue Potential

Network API exposure gained momentum as operators sought new monetization avenues. By offering standardized APIs for telco capabilities like location and authentication, operators aim to position their networks as programmable platforms. Alliances like CAMARA are forming to scale API offerings globally. Meanwhile, satellite providers are entering the telecom mainstream, partnering with terrestrial operators to extend coverage, particularly in remote areas. This expansion adds complexity and opportunity to the network ecosystem.

An Industry in Transition

MWC 2025 highlighted an industry evolving rather than erupting. Innovation was evident, from solar-powered laptops to humanoid robots, but the real story was one of partnerships and alignment. Operators are prioritizing efficiency, ecosystem collaboration, and new revenue models. The shift underscores telecom’s transformation from mere infrastructure providers to enablers of digital ecosystems. As the industry redefines its role, MWC 2025 made it clear: the future of telecom lies in intelligence, flexibility, and collaboration.