Telefonica will return to the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona from March 2 to 5 under the theme “Ready for Next,” reinforcing its strategy to lead digital innovation through advanced connectivity and next-generation technologies.
At the core of its presence is a 951-square-metre stand designed to symbolize openness, continuity and technological evolution. The space combines immersive demonstrations, live knowledge sessions and sustainability-focused architecture, reflecting Telefonica’s strategy to position connectivity as the foundation for digital transformation.
Innovation-Driven Demonstrations
Telefonica will present three major demonstration areas highlighting the capabilities of its 5G network integrated with emerging technologies including quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence, IoT, network slicing, satellite connectivity, fog computing, drones and robotics.
A key attraction is the “Mission-Critical Dome,” an immersive experience staged across Barcelona to simulate emergency response scenarios. The demo showcases how a 5G Tactical Bubble – powered by satellite links, AI, drones, robots and network slicing – can restore communications during natural disasters and maintain coordination between emergency teams.
Another highlight, “Titan Connect,” focuses on business continuity. The demonstration simulates a high-traffic environment such as a sporting event, where mission-critical medical response operations continue seamlessly without network disruption. Telefonica will showcase integrated capabilities including 5G SA, fibre, satellite connectivity, cloud, cybersecurity, automation and observability to ensure uninterrupted enterprise connectivity.
Quantum Technologies Move to Commercial Reality
Through its “Quantum Telco” demo, Telefonica will demonstrate practical applications of quantum technologies across three pillars:
Applied quantum computing for real-world use cases such as logistics optimization with Würth and cancer drug research in collaboration with Vithas and Francisco de Vitoria University.
Quantum-Safe communications services designed to protect data centres and enterprise networks from future quantum cyber threats. Telefonica was the first operator to commercially launch post-quantum cryptography services for data centres and offices.
Migration solutions enabling enterprises to transition IT infrastructure to fully post-quantum cryptographic standards aligned with European directives.
These initiatives underline Telefonica ’s long-term leadership in quantum key distribution and next-generation cybersecurity.
Inclusive and Sustainable Innovation
For the first time, Telefonica will integrate NaviLens QR codes to enhance accessibility for visually impaired visitors, offering audio-guided explanations in Spanish and English.
Sustainability is central to the stand’s design, with reusable materials and auditing based on circular economy and energy efficiency criteria. The company emphasizes responsible innovation as essential to long-term digital progress.
Agora: The 360-Degree Innovation Hub
The centerpiece of the stand is a 15-metre-diameter 360-degree LED ring hosting the Telefonica Agora. This immersive stage will feature 24 live sessions delivered by more than 60 executives and experts, while over 25 Telefonica leaders will participate in panels organized by the GSMA and associated MWC forums.
Telefonica Chairman Marc Murtra will join a GSMA panel discussion titled “What Does Strategic Tech Sovereignty Mean for Europe?”, further reinforcing the company’s engagement in shaping Europe’s digital future.
Through advanced 5G capabilities, quantum innovation, AI-driven solutions and sustainable design, Telefonica’s presence at MWC 2026 demonstrates how telecom operators are evolving into full-scale technology platforms enabling resilient, secure and future-ready digital ecosystems.
SHAFANA FAZAL
