BARCELONA

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 opened in Barcelona under the theme “The IQ Era,” positioning artificial intelligence at the center of the global mobile technology agenda.

The four-day exhibition, running from March 2–5, is expected to draw around 100,000 participants from more than 200 countries, reaffirming its status as one of the world’s leading platforms for mobile and digital innovation.

This year’s showcase prominently features “metal-collar” humanoid robots, underscoring the shift of AI from software-based systems to embodied, real-world applications. The event’s “New Horizon” segment highlights breakthroughs ranging from robot nurses and autonomous lunar rovers to 5G-enabled manufacturing solutions.

Attendees are also offered a forward-looking view of digital infrastructure, with demonstrations of quantum encryption, non-terrestrial networks, and next-generation wearable technologies.

Türkiye is represented by 39 companies and startups participating under a national delegation organized by the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce.

Speaking at the event, Sekib Avdagic, president of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, said embodied AI is rapidly transforming warehousing and logistics operations. However, he emphasized that foundational technological shifts tend to generate new employment areas rather than eliminate jobs.

Avdagic noted that the first generation of university graduates accustomed to tools such as ChatGPT are entering the workforce this year, warning that they will face direct competition with AI systems in an evolving labor market.

He called on Turkish youth to focus on developing, rather than merely consuming, AI technologies to strengthen the country’s global competitiveness.

“We must make AI the cornerstone of Türkiye’s new growth model, new export narrative, and new global positioning,” he said, stressing the need to boost AI literacy and expand employment opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing.

In addition to enterprise AI and smart infrastructure themes, the exhibition features an airport technology expo demonstrating frictionless air travel solutions, reflecting the broader integration of AI across industries.

*Writing by Emir Yildirim in Istanbul