Mobile World Congress 2025 took on extra significance for Assurant with it being our tenth year of attending what’s billed as the world’s largest and most influential connectivity event.  So once again colleagues from all 4 corners of the globe descended on Barcelona to see what the industry leaders, tech giants and innovators had in store.

Here are five key take-aways which are likely to play a role and impact the products and service we supply to our clients, and the industries in which we operate…

1. AI-Powered Devices and Intelligent Customer Experience

As was the case last year, Artificial Intelligence (AI) continued as the prominent theme with major players unveiling AI-integrated devices that enhance user experience and efficiency. An example of this was Honor’s AI UI Agent, which showcased the ability to understand on-screen content without external APIs, allowing seamless task automation.

Such technology opens doors for more AI-powered diagnostics, claims automation, and predictive maintenance, allowing for more efficient and seamless customer interactions. The ability to anticipate device failures and streamline insurance claims can enhance customer satisfaction and reduce support costs.

Assurant is already embracing this as a way to process claims and provide resolution faster.

2. 5G Expansion and New Opportunities in Device Protection

5G remains at the forefront, with discussions this year focused on private 5G networks and enterprise solutions. Telecom leaders such as Ericsson and Nokia demonstrated how private 5G is transforming industries, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, and smart cities. Businesses are leveraging dedicated 5G networks to improve security, latency, and operational efficiency.

The shift to always-connected ecosystems presents a valuable opportunity to work with our partners to ensure protection solutions go beyond the user’s physical device. It’s also about the infrastructure which they rely on to stay connected.

3. Foldable and Modular Devices: A New Era of Protection Needs

Device innovation was another highlight, with an increasing number of manufacturers showcasing foldable smartphones. Lenovo introduced the ThinkBook Flip, featuring a flexible 18.1-inch OLED screen, while Xiaomi’s modular phone concept eliminated the bulky camera bump by incorporating a detachable lens system.

With such devices becoming more mainstream, this will bring a new dynamic to Assurant’s role in delivering comprehensive repair plans when it comes to screen durability, hinge mechanisms, and modular component replacement. This is so customers can have total confidence that our protection products and services cover these physical advancements.

4. Embedded Finance and Insurance Integration in Telecom Services

The event highlighted the growing presence of embedded finance and insurance within telecom services. For our Telco partners, there’s the opportunity to utilise our extensive ecosystem to create mobile plans which offer finance options, forward trade-in and protection solutions all wrapped together in one product bundle. Plus this can help consumers keep pace with the latest technology releases without a big financial hit.

With customers expecting seamless experiences, such offerings can drive higher adoption rates, long-term engagement and brand advocacy.

5. Sustainability and Green Tech: The Future of Responsible Protection

Sustainability was a key focus, with tech companies announcing initiatives to reduce electronic waste and improve device longevity. Lenovo’s Yoga Solar PC, equipped with built-in solar panels, represents a move toward energy-efficient consumer electronics. Similarly, Fairphone and Samsung showcased devices made from recycled materials and modular components, allowing for easier repairs and extended product lifespans.

This perfectly aligns with our commitment to support the circular economy through delivering sustainable solutions which keeps as many devices as possible in the supply chain. Partnering with OEMs and telecom providers to incentivise sustainable device usage and responsible recycling will create value for both businesses and customers.

And not forgetting our automotive business…

It’s becoming more prevalent year on year at MWC of a crossover between the connected living and automotive worlds. And while the flying car showcased at last year’s event may not have taken off yet (pun intended!), there was lots of discussion around how connectivity, AI, and 5G are reshaping mobility. Companies like BMW, Tesla, and Qualcomm unveiled next-generation connected vehicle platforms that integrate AI-driven assistants, real-time diagnostics, and enhanced in-car connectivity.

The rise of 5G-enabled vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is paving the way for safer, smarter, and more efficient transportation systems.

This increasing reliance on mobile technology presents a fresh avenue for innovation in connected car protection services, and we can utilise our experience from both sectors to formulate comprehensive solutions for end users.

So that’s a wrap for MWC 2025

As the connected world evolves, Assurant is positioned to lead in delivering seamless, innovative, and sustainable protection solutions that meet the needs of businesses and consumers.

To find out more about partnering with Assurant, get in touch.