From February 26 to 29, a group of innovative Italian companies participated in the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, one of the most relevant global events in the field of mobile and connectivity. Once again, the MWC hosted a large number of exhibitors and events, all oriented towards sharing and innovation.
We at Social Thingum and WhoTeach, thanks to the support of the Italian Trade Agency, had the opportunity to participate in this fair to present our technology transfer company dedicated to innovative technologies for Industry 4.0 and our innovative Digital Learning solution for delivering online training professionally.
What is the MWC?
The Mobile World Congress is considered one of the most significant global events in the mobile communications sector. It is an annual meeting that allows numerous professionals to share their products while staying updated on the most cutting-edge technologies.
The MWC is supported by GSMA – Global System for Mobile Communications, an organization that unites over a thousand mobile companies and related industries with the aim of promoting innovation in this sector.
This year, more than 2400 exhibitors participated in the fair, each ready to showcase their innovative products.
Giants such as Honor, Xiaomi, and Samsung presented new smartphones and wearables, but this year’s innovations were not limited to mobile phones and wearables. In fact, the Chinese company Tecno showcased a fully programmable robot dog with a battery life of 90 minutes and an 8-core Arm chip as its brain. Another interesting novelty displayed at the fair was the Holoconnects Holobox, a video call booth where you can speak with the hologram of the interlocutor.
Once again, much was discussed about AI and its multiple applications. Other key themes of this edition were 5G networks and payment technologies. Numerous projects and products focused on these issues attracted thousands of investors and visitors to the fair, all eager to discover what the future holds.
Italian Companies at the MWC with Italian Trade Agency and ICE
Once again, 30 Italian companies had the opportunity to participate in the event thanks to the support of the Italian Trade Agency and ICE, which continuously work to promote the internationalization and global presence of Italian businesses.
Here are the Italian companies that participated in the event:
WhoTeach
WhoTeach, founded by CEO Francesco Epifania, is a B2B platform for intelligent digital learning based on Artificial Intelligence. The goal of this platform is to support educational institutions and HR managers in creating high-quality online training courses, saving time and economic resources.
Social Thingum
Social Thingum develops innovative technological solutions and algorithms in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and Human-Computer Interaction. The company combines learning and interaction capabilities through the synergy between Artificial Intelligence and Social Networks.
BlueUp
BlueUp is an Italian company that, based on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, develops devices and innovative systems for applications in localization, tracking, identification, and detection.
Cleep
Cleep is a startup that applies electronic engineering to wearable devices with the aim of improving the user experience.
Connect Lab
Connect Lab has developed Dots, a tracking system that, through customized applications and the power of cloud technology, enables the tracking, connecting, and protecting of people, animals, and objects.
Crono
Crono is a sales platform that, implemented with Artificial Intelligence, boosts the outbound activities of corporate sales teams.
Cyberneid
Cyberneid is an Italian startup focused on artificial intelligence, electronic identity, and blockchain, managing software/hardware, mobile, and desktop services and solutions in various fields.
Domethics
Domethics specializes in the development of IoT products and services, particularly focusing on areas such as telemedicine, energy efficiency, and smart home products.
Ermes Cyber Security
Ermes is an Italian company that, by combining Artificial Intelligence with deep learning, offers cybersecurity solutions to protect companies from phishing, AI-generated web threats, and credential theft.
FBL Mobile Company
FBL has developed Momo Voice, an app designed for managing corporate SIM cards. This application facilitates connections between mobile operators and companies.
Fifth Ingenium
Fifth Ingenium is an Italian company specialized in augmented reality solutions. Its goal is to help clients create new business architectures based on innovative services, identifying the most suitable options and defining transformation plans aimed at achieving objectives, while encouraging innovation and optimizing risk management and change.
Graffiti for smart city
Graffiti was born from the idea of creating an international network by installing a smart mosaic in the most important cities around the world. This will be made possible through an app that provides content about the host city, and by installing sensors in the artwork, it will be possible to register nearby users and interact with them.
Hiop
Hiop is a deep-tech startup that has developed three products: Jump, a data processing and governance platform; Kelpie, a high-performance data warehouse ideal for real-time data; and BiPuzzle, a data visualization platform offering reports and notifications.
iNNOVA
iNNOVA supports companies in developing and finding the best business strategy to implement their digital transformation and harness the potential of new technologies.
Iubenda
Iubenda is an Italian company offering legal solutions to ensure that companies’ websites and apps comply with the regulations of multiple countries and legislations.
Manet Mobile Solutions
Manet Mobile Solutions has developed iManet Travel, a solution that allows travelers worldwide to browse the web, access multiple services and content, and enhance their overall travel experience abroad through the use of e-SIM technology.
MLR
MLR has developed WuvDay, an innovative platform for the digital dissemination of news. It transforms any smartphone into a reporter, allowing users to capture and sell verified images and videos in real time.
MyAppFree
MyAppFree is a cross-device mobile marketing platform offering solutions designed to make the advertising experience more engaging and help companies acquire new users.
Nextome
Nextome is an innovative SME that provides solutions for security, productivity, and efficiency in the production and logistics processes of complex companies and organizations.
PickEat
PickEat is an application that allows users to skip queues by enabling pre-ordering and advance payment.
QuestIT
QuestIT has developed a 24/7 virtual assistant. The unique aspect of this assistant is its ability to assume humanoid appearances and form an empathetic relationship with customers.
Scaling Parrots
Scaling Parrots is a technology transfer and web3/blockchain development company that offers tailored solutions to help companies grow and improve their performance through the use of blockchain technology.
SizeYou by I-Deal
SizeYou is a B2B mobile application, specialized in medical, fitness, and aesthetic applications. This app allows remote monitoring of patients and the collection of measurements directly from home, prioritizing privacy.
Smartly Engineerin
Smartly Engineerin has developed Oliveru, a marketplace that brings together small Italian agricultural producers on a single platform, allowing users to purchase individual products directly from the producers.
Sport Business Lab Consultancy
SBL Consultancy helps users and companies easily find all the data on the main research areas related to the sports market.
Tecnojest
TecnoJest focuses on integrating Communication Technology solutions with Building Automation, including home automation, energy saving, Internet of Things (IoT), Unified Communication (UC) solutions, and mobile applications.
UNDO Studios
UNDO Studios has developed The Nemesis, an open-world metaverse accessible on desktop and mobile, offering engaging gaming experiences and creative world-building that goes beyond traditional gaming.
Visual Note
The Visual Note system helps guitarists maintain practice by using a LED device that attaches directly to the guitar neck and connects to an app, making learning more efficient with LED guidance.
VLAB – TimelapseLab
TimelapseLab produces intelligent industrial devices connected to AI-based software for remote construction site management.
XNOOVA
XNOOVA is an Italian company that is a leader in developing platforms for defending against mobile threats.
Participant Statements
Francesco Epifania, CEO & Founder of Social Thingum and WhoTeach, states: “Participating in the MWC once again allowed us to meet new Italian and international realities, engage with industry experts, and receive valuable feedback to enhance our product. Bringing our professional B2B Digital & Intelligent Learning solution to the Mobile World Conference demonstrated the real-life impact that innovative technologies can have, especially in the EdTech sector.”
Alessandro Ricci, CEO of Scaling Parrots, states: “Once again, the MWC proved to be an unmatched opportunity for networking and sharing ideas. The Italian startup scene is more vibrant than ever, and I am proud that Scaling Parrots has been part of it for many years. We thank ICE for bringing us to Barcelona and allowing us to grow even further.”
Salvatore Pepe, CEO of Graffiti for smart city, states: “Our company creates digital mosaics equipped with connectivity that can revitalize urban spaces and provide cities with technological infrastructure, including 5G. We are present with our Smartwalls in various cities: Bari, Foggia, Palermo, Rome, Milan, Aosta, and even in small towns. The Mobile World Congress is a major event that opened the international market to us, and we expect numerous international orders.”
Matteo Valoriani, CEO of FifthIngenium, states: “FifthIngenium is a company specializing in emerging digital technologies such as Extended Reality, Machine Learning, and Cloud Computing. Our extensive experience from over 8 years of collaboration with leading companies like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Unicredit, Vodafone, and educational institutions has been channeled into the XRV platform, which powers vertical solutions. XRV is a powerful Extended Reality platform that enables shared multi-user experiences in various scenarios such as healthcare, education, cultural heritage, collaborative design, and remote audits. At MWC24, we expect to access new technologies and partnerships through networking, increased visibility, and international market opportunities, as well as the chance to learn and stay updated on industry trends. Participating in MWC24 is an unmissable opportunity to learn from others and find inspiration for future initiatives.”
Francesco Elmi, Chief Marketing Officer of QuestIT, states: “Participating in MWC 2024 was an extraordinary opportunity for the Italian tech companies selected by ICE Italia. QuestIT is among this group. This experience was crucial not only for understanding global dynamics and confirming trends and innovations, but also for consolidating existing knowledge and cultivating new business opportunities. Recognized as the most influential event in the tech sector, the fair provided a privileged space to showcase Made in Italy’s excellence and innovation on a global stage. Through meetings, conferences, and demonstrations, we had the chance to interact with international partners, share ideas, and explore new avenues for our business growth. ICE played a fundamental role as a bridge between Italian companies and global opportunities, ensuring that every participant gained maximum benefit. Our participation at MWC 2024 was far more than just attending an event—it was an immersion in a dynamic and stimulating ecosystem where innovation is palpable and the future of technology is being shaped in real time. We return to Italy not only with a wealth of new knowledge but also with the awareness that, thanks to the synergies created and opportunities explored, our companies’ growth and internationalization receive a significant boost towards ever broader and promising horizons.”
Giacomo Perazzo, CEO of PickEat, states: “PickEat’s participation in the Mobile World Congress was a positive experience. Although our initial expectations were modest—since our platform is mainly oriented towards the B2B sector—we were pleasantly surprised by the positive response we received. PickEat has developed innovative software for managing the F&B sector at events (fairs, festivals, sports events). Our app allows users to order and pay online, avoiding queues at refreshment points, as the pickup only occurs once the order is ready. On the other hand, our management system enables refreshment points to optimize their production capacity by managing peak demand. The inclusion of the Sports Tech Summit within MWC, organized by FC Barcelona, allowed us to establish significant connections for the development of our Italian and Spanish markets.”
Alessandro Canepa, CEO of SizeYou by i-Deal S.R.L., states: “SizeYou is a mobile app for taking precise, reproducible, and anonymous 3D anthropometric measurements using just two smartphone photos, based on internationally patented proprietary algorithms. Our participation at the MWC aimed at scaling up internationally in the rapidly growing sectors of medical, telemedicine, fitness, and wellness.”
Domenico Colucci, Founder & COO of Nextome srl, states: “It was an excellent opportunity that Italian companies seized at MWC24, which, as always, never ceases to amaze. Nextome, a company specializing in real-time tracking solutions with applications across various verticals, was able to closely examine the mobile device market thanks to the opportunities provided by the MWC. Our innovations confirm that we are state-of-the-art—the chosen direction is bearing fruit.”
Damiano Bauce, CEO & Founder of TimelapseLab, states: “We are excited to take this opportunity to share the expectations of TimelapseLab and our Snapall project ahead of MWC 2024. The event provided an unparalleled platform to expand our network and present our innovations in the field of construction site monitoring with advanced technology. TimelapseLab offers real-time remote monitoring solutions that enable efficient and safe management of construction sites. Our Snapall platform, supported by artificial intelligence, streamlines project management by offering features such as time-lapse, live view, BIM integrations, and much more, ensuring GDPR compliance and improving safety through proactive AI-driven alerts.”
Gaia Lorenzato, Country Manager Italy of iubenda, states: “iubenda’s participation in the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, along with the Italian ICE delegation, was an exceptional opportunity. We are grateful for being selected and very much appreciated meeting promising Italian startups at the Italy stand, where we shared our experiences in compliance. The networking was intense, allowing us to exchange ideas with delegations from other countries and numerous companies in need of cutting-edge privacy solutions. In every meeting, we presented iubenda as a global entity, emphasizing the importance of compliance in an increasingly interconnected environment.”
Giuseppe Carapellese, Co-Founder & CEO of MLR srl, states: “I am Giuseppe Carapellese, CEO of MLR, the company behind WuvDay. In an era where advanced technologies like OpenAI’s Sora make it increasingly difficult to distinguish authentic content from fakes, WuvDay emerges as a crucial solution. Our platform is designed to combat fake news and deepfakes by verifying the authenticity of photos and videos through GPS, timestamp, and by checking the entire lifecycle of informational content. At MWC in Barcelona, we had the opportunity to highlight WuvDay’s potential in reshaping the media landscape. Participating as part of the Italian ICE delegation allowed us to showcase Italian innovation on a global scale, alongside 30 other companies and startups. Our expectations for the MWC were high, and the outcome was extraordinary—we presented our vision to a global audience. Additionally, reaching the final in the Pitch2Pitch competition further underscored our commitment to innovation, providing valuable feedback and significant exposure. We are grateful for this opportunity and to everyone who made our participation possible.”
Enrico La Sala, CTO & Co-founder of hiop, states: “Hiop is an innovative deeptech startup that provides a cloud-native data platform, enabling the design, transfer, interoperability, and exploration of data from multiple sources, formats, and clouds. Our platform, as simple as a SaaS, is used by industry leaders, developers, startups, and digital creators to optimize the use of their data and AI. Hiop stands out for its ability to simplify complex data infrastructures, making them accessible and manageable for a wide range of users. We participated in MWC 2024 with the aim of forging new collaborations and identifying opportunities to accelerate digital transformation in companies, demonstrating the key role our technology can play in driving innovation and success in the global digital landscape. The event provided a fertile ground for Hiop, with substantial interest from companies across various sectors, and our demos highlighted the tangible and transformative impact we can deliver.”
Vincenzo Maresca, CEO of Visual Note, states: “This is a globally resonant event where Visual Note, specializing in musical learning, has been met with great acclaim. Our LED system, which can be mounted on any guitar and allows anyone to play from day one, addresses the high dropout rate among beginners, which stands at 90%. We expect, in the coming days, to finalize distribution agreements that will allow us to expand globally and potentially form new partnerships.”
Conclusion
The Mobile World Congress represents an exceptional opportunity for those of us working in AI, particularly in Digital Learning, to demonstrate the advantages and importance of new technologies.
Thanks to this fair, we had the chance to observe numerous cutting-edge technologies, meet new entrepreneurial realities from around the world, and develop strong networking for future collaborations.