AI takes centre stage at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona

Beyond product showcases, attention at the event also turned to how artificial intelligence should be deployed transparently and responsibly as it becomes more embedded in networks and services. Advertisement World AI takes centre stage at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona Beyond product showcases, attention at the event also turned to how artificial intelligence should be deployed transparently and responsibly as it becomes more embedded in networks and services. A robot preparing drinks at the China Mobile stand during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on Mar 3, 2026. (Photo: AFP/Josep Lago) New: You can now listen to articles. This audio is generated by an AI tool. Ross Cullen Marcel Pereira Ross Cullen & Marcel Pereira 04 Mar 2026 06:38PM Bookmark Bookmark Share WhatsApp Telegram Facebook Twitter Email LinkedIn Set CNA as your preferred source on Google Add CNA as a trusted source to help Google better understand and surface our content in search results. Read a summary of this article on FAST. Get bite-sized news via a newcards interface. Give it a try. Click here to return to FAST Tap here to return to FAST FAST BARCELONA: Artificial intelligence is not just a buzzword – it is the central theme at this year’s Mobile World Congress, the world’s largest mobile industry event. The four-day show opened on Monday (Mar 2) at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via in Spain and is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors.This year marks its 20th edition, bringing together major phone makers, network providers, technology firms and policymakers from around the world.SMARTPHONES SHIFT FOCUS TO AIAlongside traditional upgrades like improved cameras and slimmer designs, smartphone makers at the show are placing greater emphasis on AI features designed to enhance everyday tasks and integrate more seamlessly across devices.Samsung, the world’s second-largest smartphone maker after Apple, said it is putting AI right at the heart of its latest devices.The South Korean company’s new Galaxy S26 series – which it described as its “third-generation AI phone” – uses AI to simplify tasks by anticipating users’ needs.Chinese brands including Huawei, ZTE, Xiaomi and Honor also emphasised AI-driven hardware and infrastructure at their booths. Xiaomi, for example, highlighted how AI connects its smartphones, smart home devices and cars, while Honor unveiled an AI-powered “Robot Phone” concept that can track users and adjust its camera using built-in motion technology.