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Telecommunications equipment industry

Mobile World Congress 2010: A Showcase for the Rise of Mobile Software

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The 2010 Mobile World Congress, which kicked off in Barcelona on Monday, is poised to highlight the growing significance of mobile software in the fast-paced mobile industry. With over 1,300 companies in attendance, the event will feature the latest products and technologies from traditional handset manufacturers like Nokia and Samsung, as well as Web search engine operators, computer software makers, and advertisers. As users increasingly turn to mobile devices for web surfing and computing, the mobile industry is expected to take center stage, with a focus on mobile software that will define the future of the industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least two new mobile operating systems, Bada and Windows Phone 7, are slated to be announced during the show, marking a significant shift in the industry's focus from hardware to software.
  • Samsung, the world's No. 2 maker of mobile handsets, has unveiled its first Bada-powered smartphone, the Wave, which will give the industry a chance to evaluate Samsung's footing in the smartphone segment.
  • Microsoft is expected to disclose a new version of its mobile operating system, Windows Phone 7, which is crucial for the company's relevance in the mobile industry.
  • Industry watchers predict a surge in demand for low-priced smartphones, with South Korean handset makers vying for leadership in this new mid-to-low end smartphone segment.
  • The MWC will showcase the mobile industry's adjusting to the rising emphasis on mobile software, with traditional feature phone makers adapting to the changing landscape.
  • Google's Android system is expected to expand significantly, with a slew of new handset models based on the operating system to be announced during the show.

Statistics:

  • Over 1,300 companies are attending the 2010 Mobile World Congress.
  • Samsung has announced that it will begin to focus as much on mobile software as mobile hardware.
  • 2013 is the expected year of significant demand for low-priced smartphones, with average prices expected to be under US$200.
  • South Korean handset makers have advanced technology in hardware and are expected to lead the new mid-to-low end smartphone segment.
  • At least 10 new mobile operating systems are expected to be announced during the MWC.

Sources:

  • "Mobile World Congress opens Monday in Barcelona with more than 1,300 companies in attendance." Asia Pulse, February 15, 2010.
  • Denny Kim, analyst at Eugene Securities based in Seoul, quoted in "A lot of handsets with Android system will be announced." (Source: Asia Pulse, February 15, 2010)
  • Kim Do-han, analyst at Samsung Securities in South Korea's capital city, quoted in "I expect demand for low-priced smartphones to rise very rapidly." (Source: Yonhap News Agency, February 15, 2010)

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