March 25, 2025
Stepping into the vibrant halls of Fira Gran Via, Barcelona, for Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, I joined over 109,000 industry leaders, innovators, and technology enthusiasts from 205 countries and territories. This year’s event — while still heavily influenced by AI’s rapid adoption in telecommunications — struck a balance between futuristic ambition and real-world implementation.
On one end of the spectrum, humanoid robots strolled the exhibition floors, a testament to the long-term vision of AI-powered automation. On the other, IoT connectivity, AI-enhanced networks, private 5G, and satellite-driven hybrid solutions took center stage as the industry shifts toward more practical, scalable innovations.
From the acceleration of 5G Standalone (SA) and network slicing adoption to the much-anticipated arrival of the SGP.32 eSIM standard, MWC 2025 provided a clear snapshot of how connectivity is evolving — driven by a blend of AI, automation and next-gen infrastructure solutions. In this blog, I’ll detail the top compelling IoT connectivity developments that are poised to reshape our connected future.
Key themes and innovations related to Internet of Things (IoT) at MWC 2025
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5G for All: The High-Low Strategy
Despite the industry buzz around 6G on the horizon, MWC 2025 demonstrated that 5G innovation continues to accelerate with remarkable momentum. The technology is evolving beyond its initial promise, addressing an increasingly diverse set of performance needs and cost optimization requirements across industries. Semtech exemplified this trend with two strategic module launches:
- The premium EM9492, powered by X85 Modem-RF's latest generation platform, which leverages 5G Advanced (3GPP Release 18) to enable next-gen applications with DSDA, on-chip AI processing, and 6CC carrier aggregation.
- The cost-effective EM9295 powered by Qualcomm X61, delivering 2.5 Gbps speeds to drive broader 5G adoption. This dual approach addresses the market's evolving demands for both performance-critical and cost-optimized 5G connectivity solutions.
Find out more in the press release here
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Satellite non-terrestrial networks (NTN)
Expanding IoT connectivity to remote and underserved regions was a prominent topic at MWC. Semtech's collaboration with Skylo fits right into this initiative, offering satellite connectivity for IoT applications in areas where traditional cellular networks are limited. Notably, Semtech's HL781x modules are now fully compatible with Skylo's expansive satellite network service, providing customers with the option to connect using NB-IoT over a satellite network when traditional terrestrial coverage fails. This partnership enhances global connectivity options, bridging the gap between terrestrial and satellite networks for better universal connection.
Find out more in the press release here
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Advancements in eSIM standards: SGP.32
The upcoming IoT eSIM standard, SGP.32, set for release mid 2025, was a focal point of IoT connectivity discussions at MWC. To demystify this third-generation eSIM standard, Semtech has partnered with analyst firm Counterpoint to create an informative video series. This series aims to clarify the functionalities and implementation of SGP.32, with contributions from SIM partner Kigen. The first episode is available for viewing here
Semtech's commitment to unified IoT management
In a recent interview published by IoT Now, Semtech’s senior director of product management, Rupa Datta and Jim Morrish from the research firm Transforma Insights discussed the advantages of a “single pane of glass” approach in IoT connectivity. This methodology allows businesses to manage all aspects of their IoT deployments — devices, connectivity and data — through a unified interface, leading to reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) and streamlined operations. Semtech's solutions facilitate this approach, offering integrated platforms that simplify IoT management for enterprises. You can view the interview, with its valuable perspectives on how this approach enhances operational efficiency here
Looking ahead
MWC 2025 highlighted the rapid advancements in IoT connectivity, with hybrid cellular/satellite NTN connectivity, 5G expansion, and standardized IoT eSIM technologies at the forefront. Semtech remains committed to driving innovation in this space, providing solutions that empower businesses to harness the full potential of IoT in an increasingly connected world.
To learn how Semtech can help you optimize your IoT connectivity
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