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MWC is all about the connected world

Nicola Mawson
By Nicola Mawson, Contributor.
Johannesburg, 03 Mar 2015

Mobile World Congress 2015: More than 90 000 people have converged at this year's event in Barcelona to see new technology that tackles issues such as big data and the Internet of things (IOT).

This year's turnout, with more than 500 exhibitors, is a record for the event, which is now in its 10th year. Several big brand names have taken stands and are displaying the latest in wearable technology, smart homes, and software.
This year's turnout, with more than 500 exhibitors, is a record for the event, which is now in its 10th year. Several big brand names have taken stands and are displaying the latest in wearable technology, smart homes, and software.
Among those companies present is Oral B, which is showcasing a connected toothbrush that monitors whether users brush thoroughly enough, or for long enough.
Among those companies present is Oral B, which is showcasing a connected toothbrush that monitors whether users brush thoroughly enough, or for long enough.
Also on display, in the GSM Association's Innovation City, is the Babolar connected racket, as used by Rafael Nadal, which measures every stroke throughout a player's match, and sends it back to an app via Bluetooth. The racket allows players to analyse their game to make improvements, and is no heavier than a normal racket.
Also on display, in the GSM Association's Innovation City, is the Babolar connected racket, as used by Rafael Nadal, which measures every stroke throughout a player's match, and sends it back to an app via Bluetooth. The racket allows players to analyse their game to make improvements, and is no heavier than a normal racket.
On Sunday, Samsung used the event to unwrap the latest iteration of its Galaxy phone, the S6, as well as a curved version, the S6 Edge.
On Sunday, Samsung used the event to unwrap the latest iteration of its Galaxy phone, the S6, as well as a curved version, the S6 Edge.
Vodafone, among other companies, is presenting a connected car, while Ford and China Mobile are also on hand to discuss solutions around mobility and broadband in cars.
Vodafone, among other companies, is presenting a connected car, while Ford and China Mobile are also on hand to discuss solutions around mobility and broadband in cars.
Wearables are big again at this year's conference, mirroring the trend seen at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. AT&T has developed what it claims is a first in the wearable range, coming up with a "fashionable" smartwatch that eliminates the need to carry a bulky purse while out on the town.
Wearables are big again at this year's conference, mirroring the trend seen at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. AT&T has developed what it claims is a first in the wearable range, coming up with a "fashionable" smartwatch that eliminates the need to carry a bulky purse while out on the town.
AT&T is demonstrating a connected home, and a smart rubbish bin.
AT&T is demonstrating a connected home, and a smart rubbish bin.

Among the other vendors plugging their solutions is HP, dealing with big data and analytics, while Nokia highlights its networking solutions. IOT is a hot topic, as is machine-to-machine solutions.

Several vendors, such as HTC, Alcatel, Samsung, Huawei, Microsoft and BlackBerry also took the opportunity to launch new devices.

* Nicola Mawson is in Barcelona courtesy of Samsung.

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