Samsung Withdraws from MWC 2024

Samsung Joins Growing List of Companies Skipping In-Person MWC Barcelona

Similar to the situation in 2020, another significant manufacturer has announced its absence from the upcoming in-person Mobile World Congress (MWC) event in Barcelona. With approximately a month and a half remaining, Samsung is now among a rising number of companies, including Google, IBM, Nokia, Sony, Oracle, and Ericsson, that will not be physically present.

Prioritizing Health and Safety

The company communicated its decision through a statement to TechCrunch, emphasizing the well-being of its employees, partners, and customers as its primary concern. Samsung will instead participate in the event virtually and continue collaborating with the GSMA and other industry stakeholders to foster innovation in mobile technology.

A Familiar Pattern Emerges

The events leading up to last year’s MWC mirrored this situation, with companies withdrawing one after another, ultimately resulting in the event’s cancellation. While circumstances have evolved over the past year, the virus continues to exert a substantial influence globally.

Even in regions with successful vaccination programs, uncertainties persist regarding attendance at large-scale, densely populated international events. MWC had already been rescheduled from its usual February-March timeframe, yet organizers had maintained confidence in hosting an in-person gathering.

GSMA’s Perspective on a Hybrid Event

The GSMA recently informed TechCrunch that they understand not everyone will be able to attend MWC Barcelona 2021 in person. However, they expressed satisfaction that exhibitors like Verizon, Orange, and Kaspersky are eager to participate in Barcelona.

To accommodate diverse needs, the GSMA has developed a leading-edge virtual event platform. This provides both in-person and virtual options, allowing all those connected with MWC Barcelona to engage in a manner that suits them.

Looking Ahead: The Future of MWC

Further comment has been requested from the GSMA following Samsung’s announcement. The organization has been promoting MWC as a hybrid event, akin to the planned Computex event in Taipei.

Given the number of prominent companies choosing to abstain, the scope of the in-person component remains uncertain. It appears likely that the virtual element will remain a key feature of MWC, even as conditions improve.

MWC continues to adapt to the evolving global landscape.