Innovation took pole position this weekend at the GSMA Foundry Excellence Awards Ceremony.
On Sunday 1 March, the mobile ecosystem came together at the iconic Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to celebrate the projects pushing the boundaries of connectivity, artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
Held ahead of MWC Barcelona 2026, the ceremony recognised groundbreaking solutions developed through the GSMA Foundry that are delivering real-world impact across networks, industries and society.
From AI-driven network operations to satellite-enabled connectivity and next-generation enterprise applications, the winning projects demonstrate how collaboration across the mobile ecosystem continues to unlock new opportunities for innovation.
Celebrating the 2026 Excellence Awards Winners
Intelligent Networks & AI-Driven Infrastructure
Winner: Huawei and partners -“Building the Mobile Network for Thriving AI”
This project was recognised for redefining how mobile networks are built and operated by placing artificial intelligence at the centre of network design and optimisation.
By embedding AI across network infrastructure, the initiative demonstrates how operators can manage increasing complexity, optimise performance and enable new AI-driven services at scale.
Next-Generation Connectivity & Access
Winner: Skylo – “Keeping Vehicles Connected”
Skylo’s winning solution advances seamless integration between satellite and terrestrial networks, enabling vehicles to remain connected even in areas where traditional cellular coverage is unavailable.
By extending connectivity beyond terrestrial limits, the project demonstrates how satellite-enabled services can support safety, telematics and real-time vehicle data in remote environments.
Enterprise Innovation & New Revenue Models
Winner: ZTE and China Telecom – “5G-Advanced Facilitates Multi-Robot Collaboration”
Recognised for its impact on enterprise digital transformation, this project showcases how 5G-Advanced connectivity can enable intelligent automation across industrial environments.
Through real-time coordination between multiple robots, the solution highlights how next-generation networks can unlock new levels of productivity and operational efficiency.
Trust, Security & User Protection
Winner: Skylo – “Ensuring Wearables Can Always Connect”
Reliable connectivity can be critical for personal safety and health monitoring. Skylo’s winning project ensures wearable devices remain connected even outside traditional network coverage.
By combining satellite connectivity with secure communication technologies, the solution supports critical messaging and monitoring services wherever users are located.
Cross-Cutting Excellence
Winner: ZTE and China Telecom – “Relieving the Pressure on Physicians”
This project demonstrates how AI and advanced connectivity can transform healthcare delivery.
The solution supports clinicians with real-time decision tools and digital assistants, helping reduce physician workload while expanding the capacity of healthcare systems to treat patients more efficiently.
Overall Winner: GLOMO Award
Winner: ZTE and China Telecom – “Relieving the Pressure on Physicians”
Often described as the Oscars of the telecom industry, the Global Mobile Awards (GLOMOs) recognise the most impactful innovation across the entire mobile ecosystem.
This year’s overall winning project stood out for its ability to combine AI, advanced connectivity and healthcare innovation to deliver meaningful benefits for both clinicians and patients.
By enabling real-time clinical support tools, the solution demonstrates how digital technologies can improve healthcare outcomes while addressing increasing pressure on healthcare professionals.
Congratulations to all the winners for their remarkable achievements in driving progress and innovation across the mobile ecosystem.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our independent judges for their invaluable contributions in evaluating the submissions and selecting these exemplary projects. Their expertise and dedication are instrumental in recognising and promoting innovation within the mobile industry.
Shape the Future of Connectivity – Get Involved in the GSMA Foundry Excellence Awards 2027
The GSMA Foundry Excellence Awards spotlight the projects transforming our industry, from AI-driven networks and satellite-enabled connectivity to next-generation enterprise solutions.
If your organisation is developing technologies that push the boundaries of mobile innovation, the 2027 programme is your opportunity to showcase your work on a global stage.
By participating in the GSMA Foundry Excellence Awards, you can:
• Gain recognition for breakthrough innovation across the global mobile ecosystem
• Showcase your solution to industry leaders, operators, investors and media
• Strengthen partnerships across the mobile, technology and space sectors
• Demonstrate real-world impact through collaboration within the GSMA Foundry network
Whether you are an operator, technology provider, startup, enterprise partner or research organisation, the GSMA Foundry offers a unique platform to turn ideas into industry-shaping innovation.
🚀 Interested in being part of the GSMA Foundry Excellence Awards 2027?
Register your interest and connect with the GSMA Foundry team to learn how your organisation can participate.
👉 Express your interest and get involved in the 2027 programme here.