MWC 2026: We’re live in Barcelona ahead of the world’s biggest mobile show

I’m on the ground at MWC 2026 –here’s what I’ve seen so far.

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Virgin Media O2 switches on Starlink-powered smartphone satellite service

Launch of O2 Satellite looks to help cut down areas of poor or no signal across the UK.

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VodafoneThree says mobile connectivity can create thousands of new businesses and billions in economic boost as it looks to kill off UK ‘not spots’ forever

VodafoneThree says it has wiped out further 16,500 km2 of UK “not spots” in its bid to cover the country.

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I tested the Blackview Xplore 2 Satellite – and this rugged phone can call from remote places, if the stars align

The Blackview Xplore 2 Satellite is a heavyweight rugged phone built with the ability to make calls and send messages via the Skylo satellite service.
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I tested the Blackview Oscal Tank 1 – a rugged phone that sports some neat features, but it’s also implausibly big and heavy

The Blackview Oscal Tank 1 is a heavyweight rugged design ideal for those who need extended battery life.

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eSIM adoption could reach a major milestone in 2026 – but can providers cope with demand, especially in IoT?

2026 will see a 30% rise in eSIM devices, but they’re for IoT not smartphones, so a whole new model is being rolled out.
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I tested Ulefone’s loudest rugged phone – but while the RugKing offers exceptional value, there are limitations I can’t overlook

The Ulefone RugKing is a lightweight, rugged design ideal for those who need a tough device occasionally.

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Modernize your business communication for less with Quo’s all-in-one phone system

Try the platform’s bells and whistles risk-free and get an exclusive 20% discount on your first three months.

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I tested the RugOne Xever 7 Pro – a lightweight rugged phone with removeable battery that’s dragged down by its processor

The RugOne Xever 7 Pro is a lightweight, rugged design that uses swapable batteries to extend its operating life.

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