Reinventing your business

Mobile World Congress 2024

26 February - 29 February // Barcelona, Spain

PwC will once again be at Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona, the largest gathering in the world for organisations from all industries interested in leveraging the power of mobility to advance their businesses.  
 
As we continue to establish PwC as a market leader in AI, MWC provides a unique opportunity to reach a global audience as we sponsor the conference's 'Humanising AI' track. Generative AI is creating the largest change management challenge in our lifetime. As part of the sponsorship, we'll highlight how clients are integrating Generative AI into the way they work, making AI transformational for all, and ensuring it is done responsibly. We'll also touch on how clients do this securely and protect IP while also unlocking the value of data and AI. 
 
As an exhibitor, PwC is excited to have the opportunity to maximise your time on the ground in Barcelona. There are several PwC-hosted events that will no doubt enhance your experience! We will focus on topics including 5G, Edge computing, IoT (Internet of Things), Cloud and OpenRAN. There will also be a wider discussion and discourse on ESG and other industry vertical perspectives. 

Learn why GenAI will revolutionise industries and create new opportunities.

Time Session Session description Category
10:30 - 11:00 Reconfiguring telecoms: reinvention around 'Puretone' business models Compared to integrated telecom operators, new pure play business models are delivering better shareholder returns and improved access to capital. Learn how to de-layer to face competitive pressures. Telco Trend Events
11:15 - 11:45 Unleash the power of subscription models with Oracle Cloud: A digital journey Learn to use Oracle Cloud to build cash-generating subscription models. This session covers common challenges, plus practical ways to gain insight and revenue through subscriptions. Telco Trend Events
12:00 - 12:30 Evolution of service: unlocking the value of oracle with mixed reality Uncover the transformative power of automation and augmented reality in revolutionizing field service operations, addressing labor cost challenges and enhancing efficiency in the telecommunications service sector. Telco Trend Events
12:45 - 13:15 Business model reinvention and industry edge Reinvent your business model and accelerates digital transformation. Telco Trend Events
13:05-14:15 Can Telcos afford not to be a part of the AI race? Join Jeanette Calandra (Global TMT Advisory Leader, PwC US) and Matt Labovich (Analytics Insights Leader, PwC US) as they open the "Humanising AI" track at MWC and talk about what AI anywhere really means.

This talk is located at MWC Stage B. Learn more.
Keynote
13:30 - 14:00 Revolutionizing CX with GenAI Learn how can GenAI improve the customer experience. Humanising AI Events
14:15 - 14:45 Seven urgent priorities for Telecoms CEOs This session explores seven urgent priorities for telecoms CEOs, based on data in PwC’s latest Global Telecoms Outlook. These priorities offer a roadmap toward value, competitiveness and growth. Telco Trend Events
15:00 - 15:30 5G Meets AI: the iPhone moment for manufacturing In a groundbreaking presentation on 5G and AI in manufacturing, PwC will share examples from live installations to demonstrate what’s possible when 5G-enabled technologies converge with generative AI. Macro or Vertical Events
Time Session Session description Category
9:00 - 9:30 Driving growth in wireless wholesale: legacy IoT to new application services Explore how mobile operators can position themselves for success in the changing IoT landscape amidst the spike in connectivity demand and evolving customer expectations. Telco Trend Events
10:00 - 10:30 Transforming telco B2B professional services with GenAI Discover the transformative power of Generative AI in Telco B2B professional services, as we showcase a Cognitive Professional Services Suite that empowers sales, project delivery, and procurement teams for accelerated growth and company excellence. Humanising AI Events
10:45 - 11:15 Being human in the age of AI
What does it mean to be human in the age of AI? This panel examines opportunities for AI to advance inclusion and equity and to create a new version of “success” that encompasses both profit and purpose. Humanising AI Events
11:30 - 12:00 Strategic energy demand reduction experience Get the business case for drastically lowering your company’s energy demands right now. This presentation, co-developed by Microsoft, will compel you to action. Learn more
Macro or Vertical Events
12:00 - 13:00 Keynote Five: Powering the future 5G Advanced, the next evolutionary step in 5G technology, is bringing a new level of enhanced capabilities that go beyond connectivity and enable a wide set of vertical use cases.  As virtual networks, or 5G slicing, can be tailored to each use case, the boundaries of technological innovation and the experience for consumers and enterprise are being maximised on unprecedented scales. Delivering speeds up to 10 times faster for both uplink and downlink speeds, virtual worlds can now meet reality using state-of the art tools to increase collaboration, improve execution and accelerate innovation. Networks are gaining more intelligence, and the possibilities are truly endless.

This talk is located at the MWC main stage. Learn more.
Keynote
12:15 - 12:45 Navigating the AI surge: Charting a green future with innovative tech solutions for sustainable computing Will local energy sources be able to power AI-enabled cities and lifestyles? Learn to assess and optimise energy usage as computer capacity surges. Macro or Vertical Events
13:00 - 13:30 GenAI and ESG: A sustainability agenda catalyst?
Will generative AI drive ESG – or will it introduce new risks? Hear the potential benefits and dangers of using generative AI in ESG programs and reporting. Humanising AI Events
14:00 - 14:30 Women Leaders in Telecommunications at the Peak of Global Economic and Societal Change

As economic and community development has become a central focus, women are emerging as vital catalysts of growth. Through their ability to bridge the gender digital gap and lead across fields in telecommunications, these women are paving the way for a more equitable future for everyone. Meet the women who play a pivotal role in driving economic growth across the telecom industry and beyond.

The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient 
14:30 - 15:00 From Skill Gap to Skill Leap: The Transformative Power of Upskilling The ability for workers to adapt and expand their skill set undoubtedly benefits their personal development by contributing to increased job security, higher earning potential and greater career satisfaction. But upskilling also benefits employers in a big way; they see improved employee retention rates, higher output, enhanced productivity and a better competitive advantage. Join us for a conversation on how upskilling has a holistic, positive impact on every member of a team. The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient 
15:00 - 15:30 Architects of the Future: Women Leading the Way in AI Despite bias and the gender gap in AI adoption, women are making significant contributions to the field of AI. And it’s only just the beginning; from developing AI-driven healthcare solutions to promoting ethical AI development, women are leading the way towards a more inclusive future. Join us for a conversation around how we can amplify the voices of women in AI and empower the next generation of girls to join the ranks of AI pioneers. The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient 
15:30 16:00 Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Leaders in the Semiconductor Workforce As semiconductor production increases exponentially in the U.S., companies will need a highly skilled workforce of scientists and engineers to develop the next generation of semiconductor chips, and women and diverse leaders must be part of this equation. In the spirit of Moore’s Law, we need to double the number of women in leadership roles in the industry and STEM-focused women candidates joining the industry. Join us for a conversation on why rejuvenating the U.S. semiconductor industry will only be successful with women and minorities in the workforce. The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient 
16:00 - 16:30 Leveraging Data to Empower Women Customers Data holds immense power. Companies can leverage this power to personalize experiences, enhance customer service and drive growth. But when it comes to women customers, traditional data-driven approaches often fall short. Women are typically underrepresented in data sets, and their unique needs, preferences, and challenges are often glossed over. Join us for a conversation with data-driven leaders who will share tactics for how we can embrace inclusive data collection and propel positive change forward. The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient 
16:30 - 17:00 Women Moving us Forward on Sustainability in Telecom to Drive Business Growth As the world grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the role of women leaders has become increasingly crucial. Several key trends are shaping business conversations and decisions, like the rise of renewable energy, the growth of the circular economy that minimizes waste, and the connection between equality issues and sustainability. One thing is clear: ESG can drive customer acquisition in the telecom industry, and women leaders are making significant contributions within these areas. Join us for a conversation on the ways women leaders are accelerating business growth and customer acquisition through ESG efforts. The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient 
Time Session Session description Category
9:00 - 9:30 AI-Enabled workforce and skills Generative AI will transform the workforce in three critical areas: strategic workforce planning; culture and leadership; and productivity and costs. Learn to navigate a fast-approaching, fundamental workforce shift. Humanising AI Events
9:45 - 10:15 Transforming the customer experience with conversational AI Learn to improve service and increase revenue with multi-modal conversational AI and other agent-assisting tools. Humanising AI Events
10:30 - 11:00 The power of responsible AI: Balancing innovation and ethics A panel discussion on the critical need for AI governance. As AI becomes more powerful, organisations will need to balance speed and innovation with ethics, security and privacy. Humanising AI Events
11:15 - 11:45 Reinventing business models - From hardware manufacturer to digital solutions player This case study-style presentation follows the business model transformation of Sennheiser. Learn how the legendary, three-generation company embraced a digital future. Macro or Vertical Events
12:00 - 12:30 Valuing the impact of gen AI on telecoms Learn to assess the benefits and ROI of potential AI use cases, as well as the costs. With the right strategic calculations, generative AI can help telecoms achieve astounding new growth and efficiency targets.  Humanising AI Events
12:45 - 13:30 (Smart) mobility meets AI: New value streams through transformation, technology, and trust Traditional transportation is being disrupted by autonomous driving and shared mobility solutions. Learn how technologies are coming together to create efficient, sustainable and convenient mobility solutions. Macro or Vertical Events
13:30 - 14:00 Enabling the skill shift: The need for talent transformation in telecom Buy, build, borrow or bot? Modern workforce planning strategies can help you acquire skills and bridge critical talent gaps. Telco Trend Events
14:15 - 14:45 Business model reinvention: future of video for pay TV providers TV providers have to transform to compete with studios and streamers – but it’s a complex and delicate transition. Discuss TV’s future in the value chain, how to unwind legacy business models and new strategies to protect remaining profits. Telco Trend Events
15:00 - 15:30 Customer service powered by AI Customer expectations are rapidly changing, and AI is about to disrupt service operating models. Learn how to keep up. Humanising AI Events

Where can you find us?

Hall 4, Booth 4D10

We will once again have a branded booth, including product and service demos, meeting space and space for casual interactions. Don’t forget to join us every afternoon for a cocktail reception on our stand. It’s the perfect place to meet with PwC attendees and network with others.

Keynote sessions

Monday, February 26 | 13:05 - 14:15 | Can Telcos afford not to be a part of the AI race? | MWC Stage B

Join Jeanette Calandra (Global TMT Advisory Leader, PwC US) and Matt Labovich (Data, Analytics and AI Leader, PwC US) as they open the "Humanising AI" track at MWC and talk about what AI anywhere really means. This talk is located at MWC Stage B.

Learn more

Speakers

Matt Labovich

Jeanette Calandra

Tuesday, February 27 | 12:00 - 13:00 | Keynote Five: Powering the future | MWC Main Stage

5G Advanced, the next evolutionary step in 5G technology, is bringing a new level of enhanced capabilities that go beyond connectivity and enable a wide set of vertical use cases. As virtual networks, or 5G slicing, can be tailored to each use case, the boundaries of technological innovation and the experience for consumers and enterprise are being maximised on unprecedented scales. Delivering speeds up to 10 times faster for both uplink and downlink speeds, virtual worlds can now meet reality using state-of the art tools to increase collaboration, improve execution and accelerate innovation. Networks are gaining more intelligence, and the possibilities are truly endless.

This talk is located at the MWC main stage and will be moderated by Mohamed Kande Vice Chairman, US Consulting Solutions & Global Advisory Leader, PwC.

Learn more

Moderator

Mohamed Kande

Mohamed Kande

Booth Programing Schedule

Dates and times may be subject to change

Compared to integrated telecom operators, new pure play business models are delivering better shareholder returns and improved access to capital. Learn how to de-layer to face competitive pressures.

Speakers: Russell Taylor, Florian Groene, Junis Rindermann
Category: Telco Trend Events

Learn to use Oracle Cloud to build cash-generating subscription models. This session covers common challenges, plus practical ways to gain insight and revenue through subscriptions.

Speakers: Ernesto Solera, Martha Bradshaw
Category: Telco Trend Events

Uncover the transformative power of automation and augmented reality in revolutionizing field service operations, addressing labor cost challenges and enhancing efficiency in the telecommunications service sector.

Speakers: Ernesto Solera, Tyler Smeltzer
Category: Telco Trend Events

Reinvent your business model and accelerates digital transformation.

Speaker: Matt Wetmore
Category: Telco Trend Events

Learn how can GenAI improve the customer experience.

Speakers: Harish Nalinakshan, Verizon, Jio+ PlatformsCategory: Humanising AI Events

This session explores seven urgent priorities for telecoms CEOs, based on data in PwC’s latest Global Telecoms Outlook. These priorities offer a roadmap toward value, competitiveness and growth.

Speakers: Jeanette Calandra, Wilson Chow, Florian Groene
Category: Telco Trend Events

In a groundbreaking presentation on 5G and AI in manufacturing, PwC will share examples from live installations to demonstrate what’s possible when 5G-enabled technologies converge with generative AI.

Speakers: Peter Weichsel
Category: Macro or Vertical Events

Explore how mobile operators can position themselves for success in the changing IoT landscape amidst the spike in connectivity demand and evolving customer expectations.

Speaker: Rand Bailin
Category: Telco Trend Events

Discover the transformative power of Generative AI in Telco B2B professional services, as we showcase a Cognitive Professional Services Suite that empowers sales, project delivery, and procurement teams for accelerated growth and company excellence.

Speaker: Hani Zein, Fawaz Boualwan
Category: Humanising AI Events

What does it mean to be human in the age of AI? This panel examines opportunities for AI to advance inclusion and equity and to create a new version of “success” that encompasses both profit and purpose.

Speaker: Mitra Best, Google, Intel
Category: Humanising AI Events

Get the business case for drastically lowering your company’s energy demands right now. This presentation, co-developed by Microsoft, will compel you to action. Learn more

Speakers: Renate De Lange, Robert Turner, Thomas Hendrix
Category: Macro or Vertical Events

Will local energy sources be able to power AI-enabled cities and lifestyles? Learn to assess and optimise energy usage as computer capacity surges.

Speakers: Tanjeff Schadt, Jens Niebuhr
Category: Macro or Vertical Events

Will generative AI drive ESG – or will it introduce new risks? Hear the potential benefits and dangers of using generative AI in ESG programs and reporting.

Speaker: Eugenie Krijnsen
Category: Humanising AI Events

As economic and community development has become a central focus, women are emerging as vital catalysts of growth. Through their ability to bridge the gender digital gap and lead across fields in telecommunications, these women are paving the way for a more equitable future for everyone. Meet the women who play a pivotal role in driving economic growth across the telecom industry and beyond.

Category: The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient

The ability for workers to adapt and expand their skill set undoubtedly benefits their personal development by contributing to increased job security, higher earning potential and greater career satisfaction. But upskilling also benefits employers in a big way; they see improved employee retention rates, higher output, enhanced productivity and a better competitive advantage. Join us for a conversation on how upskilling has a holistic, positive impact on every member of a team.

Category: The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient

Despite bias and the gender gap in AI adoption, women are making significant contributions to the field of AI. And it’s only just the beginning; from developing AI-driven healthcare solutions to promoting ethical AI development, women are leading the way towards a more inclusive future. Join us for a conversation around how we can amplify the voices of women in AI and empower the next generation of girls to join the ranks of AI pioneers.

Category: The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient

As semiconductor production increases exponentially in the U.S., companies will need a highly skilled workforce of scientists and engineers to develop the next generation of semiconductor chips, and women and diverse leaders must be part of this equation. In the spirit of Moore’s Law, we need to double the number of women in leadership roles in the industry and STEM-focused women candidates joining the industry. Join us for a conversation on why rejuvenating the U.S. semiconductor industry will only be successful with women and minorities in the workforce.

Category: The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient

Data holds immense power. Companies can leverage this power to personalize experiences, enhance customer service and drive growth. But when it comes to women customers, traditional data-driven approaches often fall short. Women are typically underrepresented in data sets, and their unique needs, preferences, and challenges are often glossed over. Join us for a conversation with data-driven leaders who will share tactics for how we can embrace inclusive data collection and propel positive change forward.

Category: The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient

As the world grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the role of women leaders has become increasingly crucial. Several key trends are shaping business conversations and decisions, like the rise of renewable energy, the growth of the circular economy that minimizes waste, and the connection between equality issues and sustainability. One thing is clear: ESG can drive customer acquisition in the telecom industry, and women leaders are making significant contributions within these areas. Join us for a conversation on the ways women leaders are accelerating business growth and customer acquisition through ESG efforts.

Category: The Equality Lounge by The Female Quotient

Generative AI will transform the workforce in three critical areas: strategic workforce planning; culture and leadership; and productivity and costs. Learn to navigate a fast-approaching, fundamental workforce shift.

Speaker: Will Barkway
Category: Humanising AI Events

Learn to improve service and increase revenue with multi-modal conversational AI and other agent-assisting tools.

Speakers: Sachin Khairnar, Shai Zorea, Varun Sharma
Category: Humanising AI Events

A panel discussion on the critical need for AI governance. As AI becomes more powerful, organisations will need to balance speed and innovation with ethics, security and privacy.

Speakers: Chris Oxborough, Maria Axente, Ilana Golbin-Blumenfeld
Category: Humanising AI Events

This case study-style presentation follows the business model transformation of Sennheiser. Learn how the legendary, three-generation company embraced a digital future.

Speakers: Martin Röser, Andreas Böhmer-Sennheiser
Category: Macro or Vertical Events

Learn to assess the benefits and ROI of potential AI use cases, as well as the costs. With the right strategic calculations, generative AI can help telecoms achieve astounding new growth and efficiency targets.

Speakers: Andy Wisnia, Mary Shelton Rose
Category: Humanising AI Events

Traditional transportation is being disrupted by autonomous driving and shared mobility solutions. Learn how technologies are coming together to create efficient, sustainable and convenient mobility solutions.

Speaker: Hendrik Reese
Category: Macro or Vertical Events

Buy, build, borrow or bot? Modern workforce planning strategies can help you acquire skills and bridge critical talent gaps.

Speaker: Dieter Kern
Category: Telco Trend Events

TV providers have to transform to compete with studios and streamers – but it’s a complex and delicate transition. Discuss TV’s future in the value chain, how to unwind legacy business models and new strategies to protect remaining profits.

Speakers: Brian Kaplan, Pranav Parekh
Category: Telco Trend Events

Customer expectations are rapidly changing, and AI is about to disrupt service operating models. Learn how to keep up.

Speakers: Sachin Khairnar, Brian Kaplan, Pranav Parekh
Category: Humanising AI Events

Mobile World Live webinar

Technological advances, surging investments and the competition for talent are all working toward one thing: In 2024, artificial intelligence (AI) will start to fundamentally change how business gets done. It’s important that organisations should act now to ensure they don't get left behind, but what does this mean for the telecoms industry? What role will trust in AI play? Is it possible to achieve transformative value?

PwC AI leaders Mitra Best, Bret Greenstein, Matt Labovich and moderator Sue Marek dive deeper into our six AI business predictions for 2024 and practical examples for how your organization can be better positioned to take advantage of the continued technological improvements of tomorrow.

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Harish Nalinakshan

Harish Nalinakshan

Partner, PwC United States

Dr. Florian Gröne

Dr. Florian Gröne

Global Telecoms Advisory Leader, Strategy& US

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