MWC 2024 Roundup:

Huawei, Qualcomm, and Ericsson, were singled out for praise, recognized for their groundbreaking work in advancing 5G technology. Their contributions were seen as pivotal in propelling the widespread adoption and ongoing development of 5G, setting new benchmarks for the future of tech innovation.

Huawei Technologies

Huawei took center stage at MWC 2024 with its pioneering 5.5G products, including the Telecom Foundation Model and the industry’s first 5.5G intelligent core network. Influencers applauded the innovative all-optical products like the OptiX OSN 9800 K36, OptiXaccess MA5800T, and iFTTR OptiXstar F50, highlighting Huawei’s foresight in enhancing network capabilities and digital transformation. The reception was largely positive, underscoring Huawei’s role in the next generation of connectivity.

Qualcomm

Qualcomm unveiled its latest Snapdragon processors, which powered the highly discussed OnePlus Watch 2, at MWC 2024. Influencers praised the new chipset for its efficiency and performance, emphasizing Qualcomm’s pivotal role in advancing the wearable tech space. The buzz reflects Qualcomm’s successful push towards more powerful and energy-efficient chip designs, which are set to redefine user experiences across devices​​.

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson

Ericsson showcased its commitment to advancing 5G infrastructure and network capabilities, earning positive reactions for its efforts to enhance global connectivity. Ericsson’s innovations in network evolution and digital transformation were recognized as key to the future of telecommunications, with influencers noting the company’s significant contributions to a more connected world.

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A More Balanced IT Workforce:

With a focus on creating more inclusive work environments, telecommunications firms are not only fostering a culture of acceptance but also reaping significant financial rewards in the process, says GlobalData, a leading data and analysis company.

Robert Pritchard, Principal Analyst, Enterprise Technology and Services at GlobalData: “With the tech sector being driven at high pace by change and innovation, recruiting teams that more closely resemble the world at large has become more of a priority amongst leading companies. It is telling that 60% of Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants.”

GlobalData analysis reveals that more balanced (by gender, race, and disability) workforces are emerging over time, often led by the C-Suite and the Board, but also in the wider employee base.

“With Indian-born CEOs at Google and Microsoft, ever more women CEOs across telecoms and tech companies, and a gay man in charge at Apple, the sector is again leading the way.

“DEI has largely moved from a tick-box exercise to a key strategic management consideration. The companies that are more advanced have been proven to be more successful, with their customers preferring brands and organizations that align with their values and identities.”

Studies by Boston Consulting Group and Harvard Business Review have found that companies with more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenues and 9 percentage points higher EBIT margin. In addition, in the battle for scarce talent in tech, DEI is seen as a key deciding factor for potential recruits – especially amongst Generation Z.

Pritchard concludes: “In terms of rebalancing the overall workforce, it is a long journey as most employees stay in post for over four years. Nevertheless, demonstration of a cultural shift and a more inclusive approach is vital. This can be helped in the short-term through training, mentoring, cross-team building, volunteering, and commitment to employee wellbeing. Success in DEI is reflected in commercial success in the long-run.”