MWC 2026 made one point quickly: AI is now standard trade show language. It was attached to almost every stand, every demo and, in many cases, every sales pitch. The more useful reading is that AI remains highly visible, but its commercial value is still uneven. Much of what was on show looked broad, familiar and still short of clear operational impact. Even the shift in language from AI to agents did little to change that. The technology remains important, but the event suggested that practical monetisation is still developing more slowly than the marketing around it.
That is why the stronger signal from the show was elsewhere. Satellite connectivity looked like the clearest area of real strategic movement. The presence of major players, expanding partnerships and a wider range of satellite infrastructure on display all pointed to a market that is moving closer to scale. It is starting to look like a credible third connectivity model alongside fixed and mobile terrestrial networks. If that shift continues, it could affect operator strategy, coverage economics, partnership structures and competitive positioning across the sector.
Robotics also had a larger presence this year. The systems on display appeared more stable and more controlled than in previous years, suggesting the category is maturing.
The device market also showed signs of renewed experimentation. After a long period of limited differentiation, manufacturers appear to be testing new formats and features again. Camera-led handset designs, app-specific privacy screens, gaming accessories and rollable displays all suggested a willingness to try new ideas.
Cerillion plc (LON:CER) is a leading provider of billing, charging and customer management systems with more than 20 years’ experience delivering its solutions across a broad range of industries including the telecommunications, finance, utilities and transportation sectors.
