The telecoms industry has hit an inflection point, with a newfound focus on computing-centric applications. This marks the era where communications alone is no longer enough for telcos to drive the revenue growth they seek. At Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC25), ABI Research analysts observed this transformation unfolding across the exhibition floor. As the event highlighted Artificial Intelligence (AI), edge computing, and data-driven solutions over conventional hardware, the telco value chain emerged as a key area of change. Here are five compelling examples from MWC25, each revealing a piece of this industry-wide pivot.

Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 promises to be a landmark event, marking a dramatic shift in focus from communications to computing. In the midst of this transformation, ABI Research anticipates that the tech show will shine a spotlight on the growing rift between China and the West, with a special focus on how telcos are embracing platforms that can power next-gen applications, especially in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

As we inch closer to Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, network Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs) are a hot ticket item within the telecoms industry. They are a way for telco operators to provide developers with access to network capabilities, enhancing user experience and offering more efficient services, while unlocking new features otherwise not possible. APIs have unlocked opportunities across supply chains, with notable successes including app stores like Apple's and Google's, cloud services like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure, and various consumer and enterprise services.

Technological advancements in cellular standards have been the hallmark of MWC for 2 decades, dating back to the 2G and 3G eras. This year, that will change for many reasons:

Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 is fast approaching, and ABI Research will be there once again to witness the latest innovations shaping the future of mobile technology. Based on numerous pre-briefings ahead of Barcelona, our analysts are calling the most dramatic shift in MWC's history: watch the telecoms industry finally shed its old skin. Computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are not just joining the party, they are taking over the entire show.

We often take cellular connectivity for granted. Without it, we can’t text our friends, access email, or contact emergency services. For enterprises, a lack of mobile coverage means software tools are deemed worthless, vital communications get shut down, and operations come to a halt. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to deliver fiber-based broadband due to geographical constraints and outdated infrastructure. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is a key connectivity solution that addresses these challenges as it does not require physical cable installation in a home or business.

Mobile network data traffic is projected to nearly triple by 2030, requiring a shift toward high-performing, programmable networks powered by openness and cloud technologies. This evolution enables service providers to offer performance based services rather than relying solely on data volume. Establishing a strong foundation for network evolution is essential for driving 5G business growth.

The demand for passive cellular antennas continues to grow as global telecommunications operators seek innovative solutions to support expanding 5G deployments and beyond. In this blog, we highlight the top passive cellular antenna vendors based on ABI Research's latest comparative analysis, focusing on their unique strengths, product capabilities, sustainability efforts, and market performance.

The year 2024 provided numerous technology trends shaping the future of nearly every industry. ABI Research analysts have been covering these developments for some time, and now it’s time to reflect upon our studies in our annual trends whitepaper. Before we dive into the list, here’s a statement from Stuart Carlaw, Chief Research Officer:

The telecommunications (telecoms) industry is in the midst of a transformational phase. Technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), network slicing, network Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs), and cloud computing are setting the stage for a digital revolution. As the telecoms sector moves forward, business models are evolving, with an emphasis on next-gen network technologies and improved customer experience. Despite the progress, there are still challenges to overcome before the industry reaches its full potential in digital transformation.