PolyU shines at MWC Barcelona 2026 as the sole university exhibitor from Hong Kong and recognised as GLOMO Award Finalist
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) made its debut at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2026, the world’s largest and most influential event for the mobile and connectivity industry. The only higher education institution from Hong Kong to exhibit at the event, PolyU showcased a range of pioneering research innovations spanning the interdisciplinary fields of artificial intelligence (AI) for healthcare and education, next-generation connectivity and security, as well as smart city infrastructure, demonstrating the University’s capability to translate research outcomes into real-world solutions that benefit the global community.
Leading the delegation, Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation), said, “PolyU is honoured to be the first university from Hong Kong to participate at MWC Barcelona. This major international event enables us to demonstrate our capabilities in advanced technologies and interdisciplinary research to global audience. By engaging with leading industry representatives and presenting our world-class 6G, AI, and smart city innovations, we are not only showcasing PolyU’s research excellence but also expanding our global footprint and fostering partnerships that accelerate the transfer of knowledge from laboratories to the global market.”
The PolyU booth attracted strong interest from industry leaders and international delegates such as the 6G France and French delegation. They interacted with PolyU researchers, exchanging insights on the technological landscape and potential cross-border research synergies. Among the PolyU innovations was the Virtual Patient Simulation System, which was shortlisted for the prestigious 2026 Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards in the category of Best Mobile Innovation for Connected Health and Wellbeing. This places PolyU among the top tech innovators, alongside China Mobile, China Telecom, and Huawei, while also highlighting the University’s innovation and advancement in leveraging mobile connectivity to support the healthcare and wellness ecosystem.
Developed by Prof. CHAN Wing Chi Lawrence, Associate Professor of the PolyU Department of Health Technology and Informatics, the System is an AI platform designed to support medical professionals in making improved clinical decisions through simulated cases and predictive analysis. It facilitates early detection and personalised treatment, enabling hospitals and medical professionals to deliver precise, data-driven care.
During the Congress, the PolyU delegation also engaged in high-level dialogues with key ecosystem partners, including senior representatives from world-leading technology giants, major telecommunications operators and smartphone manufacturers. These meetings explored avenues for joint research initiatives, standardisation efforts, and the commercialisation of mobile technologies. Additionally, one PolyU researcher participated in a pivotal roundtable discussion focusing on how optical fibre technology enables the future development of AI.
The PolyU innovations showcased at the MWC Barcelona 2026:
AI for Healthcare and Education
- Virtual Patient Simulation System:This AI platform uses simulation and predictive analytics to support early detection and personalised care.
- DocsDocs: LexiCare Companion: A mobile dialogue-practice platform designed for non-native nursing professionals.
- NeuroVoice – Full-Stack Verbal Brain-Computer Interface (BCI): A non-invasive system designed for psycholinguistic research.
Next-Generation Connectivity and Security
- TruTru–An Embodied Tactile Companion: An interactive companion that replicates sensations.
- AI-Driven Third-Generation Semiconductor RF Integrated Circuit Design: This platform revolutionises the creation of wide-bandgap semiconductor circuits.
- Private Call Guard: A privacy-first, AI-driven phone scam detection platform.
Smart City Infrastructure
- Blockchain-Enabled Cyber-Physical System for City-Wide Parking: A flexible solution designed for heterogeneous infrastructure
Held from 2 to 5 March, MWC Barcelona 2026 has attracted over 100,000 attendees from 207 countries and territories. In addition to the exhibition, the event also featured keynote speeches, thematic summits, roundtable discussions and networking sessions—serving as a strategic platform for strengthening international collaboration.
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