The MWC (Mobile World Congress) stands as the foremost mobile phone exhibition annually. Here’s a glimpse into our anticipations for what the event will showcase.
MWC (Mobile World Congress) 2024
Mobile World Congress is fast approaching, marking the foremost phone show of the year held in Barcelona. This is the venue where top brands typically unveil new flagship smartphones and innovative concepts. The event initiates with a press day on February 25, and a flurry of major launches is anticipated. Here’s a rundown of the smartphones expected to make their debut at Mobile World Congress 2024.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The successor to last year’s Xiaomi 13 Ultra, renowned for its top-notch camera capabilities and Leica branding, is anticipated to be unveiled at MWC 2024 — the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Although details about the upcoming device are limited, it is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The device is likely to boast a sophisticated multi-camera system, featuring at least three sensors, including a dedicated ultra-wide-angle, wide-angle, and telephoto lens. Furthermore, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is projected to run on the latest Android 14-based HyperOS. With a titanium frame akin to the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro, this device is poised to be an ultra-high-end smartphone.
Nothing Phone (2a)
The company has officially disclosed that the Nothing Phone (2a) will position itself between the Phone (1) and the Phone (2) concerning both pricing and specifications. Leaks suggest that the Nothing Phone (2a) will prioritize basic hardware over cutting-edge features. It is expected to retain distinctive features such as Glyph lighting, a transparent back panel, and an almost stock Android OS named NothingOS, likely built on the foundation of Android 14.
The anticipated specifications for the Nothing Phone (2a) include a 6.7-inch screen boasting FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The smartphone is expected to be equipped with the Dimensity 7200 processor, marking it as the company’s inaugural smartphone built on the Mediatek platform.
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Although Sony has withdrawn from selling mainstream smartphones, the company persists in catering to creators with high-end phones. At MWC 2024, Sony is poised to unveil its next device — the Xperia 1 VI (Mark 6). Insider information suggests that Sony’s device will boast a triple-camera setup, with all three sensors featuring a 48 MP resolution. Additionally, the device is anticipated to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Staying true to its predecessor, the Xperia 1 VI may maintain thicker bezels with a slightly taller aspect ratio. The smartphone might also retain features such as a 3.5mm headphone jack, IP rating, and a dedicated camera app offering full manual controls.
HMD
Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has officially announced its plan to unveil both Nokia-branded and HMD-branded smartphones at MWC 2024, with a specific emphasis on the budget and mid-range segments. The company is anticipated to showcase multiple smartphones at the event. Leaks suggest that HMD might reintroduce a Lumia-like design characterized by a colorful body, evoking the nostalgia associated with older Nokia smartphones.
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra
Asus is anticipated to unveil its latest non-gaming smartphone, the Zenfone 11 Ultra, at MWC 2024. This device is reportedly built on the recently launched Asus ROG Phone 8, minus the gaming features such as an additional USB-C port. In contrast to the compact flagship Zenfone 10, the Zenfone 11 Ultra is expected to be larger, featuring a display with a minimum size of 6.7 inches. The smartphone is also rumored to be based on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, with an identical camera setup to the ROG Phone 8.
Similar to its predecessor, the Zenfone 11 Ultra may have a limited market presence. The device is expected to offer an almost stock Android 14 OS, complemented by a robust set of customization options.
Tecno Phantom V Fold 2
Tecno is poised to unveil the successor to its Phantom V Fold, one of the most affordable foldable smartphones at its initial release, at MWC 2024. The upcoming model is anticipated to feature enhanced build quality, particularly in the hinge area. Improved performance and enhanced camera features are also expected in the new iteration.
Realme GT 5 Pro
Realme is set to unveil its next flagship, the Realme GT 5 Pro, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. Initially launched in China in December, the global version will be announced at MWC. The smartphone boasts a curved display, metal frame, vegan leather back panel, and confirmed technologies such as wireless charging and an IP rating for water and dust resistance.
Honor Magic V2, Honor Magic 6
Honor is set to unveil two smartphones at MWC 2024 – the Honor Magic 6, a standard flagship, and the Honor Magic V2, a foldable flagship. Scheduled for announcement on February 25, both devices are expected to feature various AI capabilities, akin to the Galaxy AI found on the Galaxy S24 series.