The world's biggest mobile phone makers and app developers will descend on Barcelona next week to show off their latest wares, with heavyweights like Samsung, Nokia and LG vying for attention in an increasingly crowded smartphone market.
The Mobile World Congress (MWC) has grown into one of the world's most pre-eminent mobile tech shows. It will showcase the latest trends and developments in the rapidly evolving sector is expected to attract more than 12,000 mobile app developers.
"MWC remains the preeminent mobile industry event where consumers and investors will turn for a comprehensive update as to industry developments and trends," David Garrity at GVA Research told CNBC.com.
Among the mobile phone manufacturers, LG and HTC could create the biggest buzz with make-or-break product releases. Both companies face a challenging year and are struggling to compete with Samsung and Apple. Nokia, which is also in troubled waters, will also be in the spotlight.