Every year the Mobile World Congress (MWC) attracts executives representing telecom operators, device manufacturers, platform service providers and content owners from across the world. Over the years the event, without doubt, has become a curtain-raiser to trends and gizmos that are expected to dominate the tech world. In that respect, the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry this year, too, was no different. However, in its 24th edition, this time one saw brands jumping the gun and making significant announcements before MWC formally opened (the event was held for four days starting February 14). The most significant of announcements was that of Nokia’s, made on February 11, in which the Finnish handset maker declared its tie-up with Microsoft to carry Windows 7 phone software on its devices.
The alliance between Nokia and Microsoft, I think, is potentially a very significant development in the global mobile and digital eco-system, even though cynics may think otherwise. The key to its success will lie in quick development and deployment of innovative devices, which will lead to a large-format consumer adoption since competitors (read iOS and Android) have a lead. This, though, is not going to be a race where the first lap will decide the winner; instead strategies to sustain and enhance consumer experience over the next three years will determine which device maker will rule the roost. Of course, the irony is that neither Microsoft nor Nokia have been able to do this for the past three years and hence it is a do-or-die situation for them. MeeGo and Intel, too, will play a role as markets for devices will require a blend of features of mobiles, tablets and PCs, and here the two companies can be a formidable force.
Low-cost smartphones and 4G were two buzzwords that floated in the halls of the Mobile World Congress. These will, decidedly, have a noteworthy impact on our industry as well. In fact, the next tech wave is going to witness a surge in low-cost smartphones and tablets. The next generation of low-cost smart phones will be in the $40-$60 range. The demand will be for larger displays, more memory and delivery on expectations from an entertainment device.
The launch of the iPad and the subsequent launch of Samsung Galaxy Tab have unleashed a hitherto unseen interest in tablets. We will continue to see at least 100 new tablets in the market in 2011, with the possibility of prices falling as low as $150. If this happens, computing the way we know it will change. The tablet also has the potential to ride the digitisation wave in developing countries and smaller towns with its far more intuitive touch. In this space, one can expect a lot from MeeGo and Android. They will clearly challenge the strong monopoly of iPad and the iOS.
All said and done, this seems to be a year dominated by ‘devices’. It is important, however, to ask a few question here — How has the word ‘mobility’ morphed over the last few years and what is the relevance of MWC in the present scenario? What comes out of these industry-level discussions? Only time and an over-view of the four days at the MWC will tell.
The author is MD and CEO, Hungama Mobile & MEF Asia Board Chairman