The Connected Manufacturing and Production community drives adoption of mobile technologies in smart manufacturing. By connecting industry leaders, it seeks to improve efficiency, promote sustainability, and build a skilled workforce for smart factories and a connected industry

Mobile technology is particularly vital for smart factories because private 5G networks enable fast, secure connections, real-time data sharing, and automation. As a result, these innovations improve productivity, reduce downtime, and ultimately power the connected industry of tomorrow.

Our community meets regularly. Specifically, every quarter we host the Connected Manufacturing and Production Forum. Additionally, we meet at global events, such as the Manufacturing Summit at MWC Barcelona. These sessions consistently provide opportunities for collaboration and networking.

Our community collaborates on practical projects to explore how mobile technology can improve manufacturing processes. For example, the community helps bring together experts and organisations to test new technologies, develop research, and share knowledge. By forming partnerships and working closely, members can create common standards, build stronger connections across industries, and drive innovation in areas like automation, 5G, and AI. Furthermore, the goal is to address real issues manufacturers face, such as improving efficiency, reducing costs, and creating smarter, more sustainable factories.

Manufacturers, mobile operators, technology providers, industrial suppliers, and research groups all participate. Consequently, this broad collaboration strengthens the connected industry and accelerates innovation in smart manufacturing.

Mobile technology plays a critical role in helping Industry 4.0 realise its economic and commercial potential. According to a report published by Fortune Business Insights in October 2024, the global smart manufacturing market was valued at USD 310.92 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 349.48 billion in 2024 to USD 998.99 billion by 2032—a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.0%.

The community provides resources, events, and collaboration opportunities to help companies adopt technologies like private 5G, AI, and IoT. By connecting industry leaders, it simplifies the transition to smart factories and scalable digital solutions.

Mobile networks play a critical role in a variety of technologies. Specifically, these include IoT sensors, real-time data networks, equipment monitoring, hazard detection, and automated safety protocols. Together, these technologies ensure safer environments in smart factories while maintaining operational efficiency.

Connected manufacturing solves issues like inefficiencies in production, supply chain disruptions, and data silos. By leveraging mobile technologies, the initiative supports seamless communication, predictive maintenance, and enhanced supply chain visibility across the connected industry.

Companies can participate in a number of our industry events or collaborate on projects. In addition, membership offers direct access to exclusive resources and our Forum, which includes a global network of leaders driving smart manufacturing.

Sustainability is a key focus. Specifically, mobile-enabled technologies help reduce energy consumption, optimize processes, and minimize waste in smart factories. Consequently, these efforts align with broader environmental goals for a sustainable connected industry.

Industries like automotive, aerospace, mining, oil and gas, logistics, and pharmaceuticals benefit greatly. For instance, smart factories within these sectors improve efficiency, safety, and productivity while fostering innovation.

Industry 4.0 refers to the fourth industrial revolution, marked by automation, data exchange, and IoT in manufacturing. Thus, the initiative supports Industry 4.0 by enabling advancements in connected manufacturing.