MWC 2025: AI, 6G, Foldables & More – 5 Key Takeaways

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 is here, and as always, it’s setting the stage for the next wave of innovations in mobile technology. Held in Barcelona, Spain, this global event brings together the biggest names in the industry—from smartphone manufacturers and chipmakers to telecom giants and software developers.

MWC has always been the place where the future of mobile technology is showcased, and this year is no different. From AI-powered devices and next-gen connectivity to record-breaking smartphone adoption and sustainability efforts, the event is packed with game-changing announcements. If you missed it or want a deeper dive into the highlights, here are five key things to know about MWC 2025.

1. AI is Everywhere – Smartphones Are Now Smarter Than Ever

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of the latest mobile advancements. At MWC 2025, AI is playing a bigger role in smartphones, networks, and even app ecosystems.

AI-Powered Smartphones Take Over

Leading smartphone brands like Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, and Google are showcasing their latest AI-driven features. Gone are the days when AI was just used for camera enhancements or voice assistants. Now, AI is handling real-time language translations, personalizing user experiences based on habits, and even optimizing battery life.

Generative AI on Mobile: Companies are integrating on-device AI models similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google Gemini, allowing users to generate text, summarize documents, and even edit photos with just voice commands—all without needing an internet connection.
AI-Powered Photography: Smartphone cameras are now using AI to automatically remove unwanted objects from photos, adjust lighting conditions in real-time, and generate high-quality images even in extreme low-light environments.
AI-Enhanced Security: AI-driven security features include advanced facial recognition, real-time fraud detection for mobile payments, and anomaly detection to prevent hacking attempts.

AI in Networks and Connectivity

AI is also improving mobile networks by optimizing data transfer speeds, predicting network congestion, and reducing latency for smoother connectivity. Telecom giants like Ericsson, Nokia, and Huawei are showcasing AI-driven 5G and 6G enhancements that will transform everything from video streaming to cloud gaming.

2. Foldable and Rollable Phones Are Now Mainstream

Foldable phones have been around for a while, but they’re finally becoming more practical, durable, and—most importantly—affordable. In 2025, we’re seeing even more advanced designs, including rollable phones, where the screen expands or contracts depending on how you use the device.

The Rise of Rollable Screens

Several brands, including Samsung, Oppo, and TCL, have revealed rollable smartphones that dynamically adjust their display size. These devices can shift from a standard smartphone size to a small tablet, providing users with flexibility in screen real estate.

Samsung’s Rollable Galaxy: The latest prototype from Samsung features a display that extends seamlessly, offering users a larger screen for multitasking or gaming.
Oppo’s Expandable Phone: Oppo has introduced a concept device that uses a motorized rolling mechanism, eliminating the crease issue found in traditional foldables.

More Durable and Affordable Foldables

Past concerns about fragile foldable screens and sky-high prices are fading. Brands have introduced stronger ultra-thin glass, better hinge mechanisms, and improved water and dust resistance. Additionally, mid-range foldables are now a thing, making this technology accessible to more people.

3. 6G is No Longer Science Fiction – It’s Happening

While 5G is still expanding across the globe, discussions at MWC 2025 have shifted towards 6G, the next-generation wireless technology expected to launch in 2030. Tech companies and network providers are already laying the groundwork for what’s being called the “internet of everything.”

What Will 6G Bring?

Ultra-Fast Speeds: 6G is expected to deliver speeds up to 1 terabit per second (Tbps), making current 5G speeds look sluggish in comparison.
Zero Latency: Near-instantaneous connectivity will enable seamless holographic calls, real-time VR meetings, and remote robotic surgeries.
AI-Driven Networks: Unlike current networks, which rely on human management, 6G will use AI to self-optimize, reducing downtime and improving reliability.
More Sustainable Technology: 6G infrastructure is being designed to consume 50% less energy than 5G, making it an eco-friendlier option.

Telecom giants like Qualcomm, Huawei, and Nokia have already started 6G trials, with some experimental tests achieving speeds close to what’s expected in the final rollout.

4. Smartphone Penetration Hits a New Record

One of the biggest themes of MWC 2025 is the unprecedented growth in smartphone adoption, especially in emerging markets. With affordable 5G smartphones hitting the shelves, millions of people are getting connected for the first time.

Affordable 5G Devices for Everyone

Companies like Google, Transsion, and Xiaomi are launching 5G phones priced under $100, ensuring that even low-income regions can access high-speed internet. These devices come packed with AI-powered features, improved cameras, and longer battery life.

How This Impacts the Global Market

More Mobile-First Economies: With more people having access to smartphones, industries like e-commerce, fintech, and digital banking are booming.
Rise of Super Apps: Countries in Asia and Africa are seeing massive growth in “super apps”, which combine multiple services like payments, shopping, and social networking into a single platform (e.g., WeChat, Grab, and Gojek).
Bridging the Digital Divide: Organizations are working with telecom providers to bring affordable data plans to underserved areas, ensuring that connectivity is truly global.

With over 7.5 billion smartphones in use worldwide, mobile technology is more influential than ever.

5. Sustainability and Right-to-Repair Are Now Priorities

As the world becomes more conscious of e-waste and resource consumption, MWC 2025 is showcasing major strides in sustainability. The mobile industry is embracing right-to-repair laws, eco-friendly materials, and longer software support to reduce environmental impact.

Right-to-Repair Gains Momentum

Tech companies are finally listening to consumers and regulators who demand devices that can be repaired rather than replaced. At MWC 2025:

Fairphone and Nokia have introduced modular smartphones, allowing users to easily swap out batteries, screens, and cameras.
Apple and Samsung have committed to providing replacement parts and repair manuals for their latest devices.

Eco-Friendly Materials and Longer Lifespans

Smartphone manufacturers are moving towards 100% recycled materials for casings, reducing reliance on mined minerals. Additionally, brands are extending software support to 7+ years, ensuring devices remain functional longer and reducing e-waste.

Final Thoughts – The Future is Here

MWC 2025 is proving that the future of mobile technology is not just about faster processors and bigger screens—it’s about intelligent AI, next-gen connectivity, accessibility, and sustainability.

AI is revolutionizing how we interact with smartphones.
Foldable and rollable devices are making their way into the mainstream.
6G is closer than ever, promising mind-blowing speeds.
Smartphone penetration is reaching record highs, reshaping global economies.
Sustainability and repairability are finally becoming industry standards.

One thing is clear: mobile technology is evolving faster than ever, and we’re just getting started.

What are your thoughts on the latest innovations from MWC 2025? Drop a comment and let’s discuss!