Mobile World Congress 2024, held in Barcelona, has been a hub of new tech, startups, and innovations. The event has seen major announcements from companies like Google, Lenovo, and Xiaomi. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from the conference.
4FYN Pitch Competition
The Four Years From Now (4YFN) pitch competition aims to find the best startups globally. This year, five finalists have emerged from hundreds of startups. Bitsensing, based in South Korea, is developing radar technology to detect passengers inside a car without using cameras. Mica AI Medical, based in Israel, is training its operating system to spot and diagnose suspicious findings in mammograms early. Ocean Ecostructures, based in Spain, is developing a biodiversity regeneration program to mitigate the environmental effects of “grey oceans.” Qilimanjaro, also based in Spain, is a quantum computing company focused on high-quality qubit architectures. Whispp, based in the Netherlands, develops an assistive voice tech and calling app for people with vocal cord impairments.
Kombucha-based Filaments
Researchers at the Barcelona School of Design and Engineering are using kombucha, a fermented tea, to create bio-filaments. Laura Freixas and her team aim to upcycle organic waste into filaments called Biocel. This eco-friendly thread could have various applications.
Nothing Phone (2a)
London-based phone company Nothing unveiled its Nothing Phone (2a), a budget-focused device. The phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro chip and offers a premium feel at an affordable price.
HTC Vive as an Enterprise Tool
HTC Vive, known for its virtual reality headsets, has transitioned into more of an enterprise tool. The brand’s general manager and head of product operations discuss the future of VR and mixed reality technologies.
eQub Digitizes Peer-to-Peer Lending in Africa
Ethiopian startup eQub won the fintech pitch-off at 4YFN 2024. The company digitizes the traditional peer-to-peer credit system called Equb, allowing users to access credit through an app.
SynFlora’s Acne Treatment Technology
Biotech startup SynFlora is developing a new type of skin treatment technology, initially focused on acne. The company aims to deliver the treatment in a deeper way than topically applied creams by harnessing bacteria to deliver targeted therapeutics.
Lizcore’s Sport Tracking System
Lizcore has digitized and improved the indoor climbing experience with its progress tracking system. Climbers can use the Lizy bracelet, a lightweight NFC wearable, to track their climbs without needing a phone or smartwatch.
Jolla’s Private Cloud and AI Router
Mobile OS maker Jolla is designing a device that acts as a private cloud and AI router. Users can run AI queries on their personal data without compromising their privacy.
Displace Wireless Television
Displace has developed a wireless 4K OLED TV that sticks to walls without traditional mounting. The company is also working on a smaller version called Display Mini, designed for kitchen or bathroom spaces. Displace plans to introduce new features like an AI-powered shopping engine and a contactless payment reader.
Motorola’s Rollable Concept Phone
Lenovo has designed a rollable concept phone for Motorola that folds around the wrist. While it is still a concept, the device showcases innovative design possibilities.
Google’s AI-Powered Features
Google has integrated AI into its services, including Gemini for crafting messages, AI-generated captions for images, summarizing texts through AI for Android Auto, and accessibility-related features like Lookout, which helps visually impaired individuals.
Seaborough’s Desktop Lamp for Mood Improvement
Dutch company Seaborough showcased small devices that mimic the sun’s impact on serotonin production in the brain. These devices can be placed next to a computer or clipped above a display.
Infinix’s E-Color Shift
Infinix has improved upon e-ink screens with its E-Color Shift technology, adding color and aesthetic appeal to the back of smartphones.
Mobile World Congress 2024 has been a platform for exciting new technologies, startups, and innovations. From quantum computing to eco-friendly filaments, the event has showcased the future of mobile technology. Stay tuned for more updates from MWC 2024.
