Global data predict MWC 2023 to focus on ESG, 5G, and AR

Emma Mohr-McClune, Chief Analyst and Practice Lead, Consumer at GlobalData, observes: "Sustainability certification is still a huge issue. GlobalData expects the industry to lay the path for a set of more common standards and measurements. It will also likely be a big year for AR glasses at MWC23 Barcelona.

Application developers excited by this development will nevertheless need to think through the sustainability marketing and use cases arguments of XR. The event represents an excellent opportunity to bounce ideas off potential partners.

"All device original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) need to arrive in Barcelona with a well-rehearsed set of arguments for OEM control of the reparability market - or see their own channel programs come under criticism. At present, operators are staying out of this argument, but at one point even operators will start demanding more choice in this regard.

"Visitors should also be alert to any new demo, service or announcement that attempts to draw a line between consumer adoption of digital tools (e-care apps, eSIM journeys, chatbot support, digital billing or payments services) and sustainability."

Emir Halilovic, Research Director, Telecom Technology & Software at GlobalData, adds: "Telecom equipment vendors will use sustainability as one of the key features of their portfolio updates. Vendors will tout power efficiency as one of the key features of the gear launched and showcased at MWC23 Barcelona. Software solutions aimed at making networks more sustainable will also be a hot discussion topic."

Gary Barton, Research Director, Enterprise Technology & Services at GlobalData, comments: "MWC has focused on 5G for many years now, but this will be the year where we will be talking about real-life use cases for the technology and enterprises showing genuine interest rather than passive curiosity. I think a key theme will be how 5G is emerging as a viable alternative to fixed connectivity in many instances.

"GlobalData's conversations with enterprises have also highlighted the importance of efficiency and the need to achieve net zero. MWC will be alive with conversations about the power of private wireless and IoT technologies in combination with edge compute in helping businesses in verticals such as industry, utilities, logistics, and mining to achieve these sustainability goals while also improving worker safety."