The National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), a Japanese public organization based in Tokyo and a leading player in research on information and communications technologies, will participate in the 2026 Mobile World Congress, scheduled from March 2 to 5. The institute will be present in Hall 6, Space F54, where it will showcase its latest developments in Beyond 5G and 6G networks.
NICT’s presence at this tech event reflects its role as a reference entity in Japan in the field of R&D applied to future generations of mobile connectivity. Its work focuses on overcoming the limitations currently emerging in existing networks, especially in light of the exponential growth in data traffic and the number of connected devices.
Although 5G deployment continues to progress in Europe and Spain, industry experts warn that the current infrastructure is beginning to show strains in high-demand scenarios. Iwao Hosako, Ph.D. and head of the Beyond 5G R&D Promotion Unit at NICT, explains, “Many digital applications already in use in Europe, such as data analysis systems or AI-based services, operate on 5G but with very tight margins. In high load or mobility environments, the network doesn’t always provide the necessary consistency.”
Hosako emphasizes that the institute’s research lines aim to improve network behavior as complexity and demand increase, laying the foundation for more stable, faster infrastructures ready for new digital uses.
Technological demonstrations in Barcelona
During MWC 2026, NICT will offer hands-on demonstrations of its most advanced developments. These include ultra-fast transmissions in the terahertz band capable of managing 4K video without compression, as well as AI systems designed to optimize real-time data collection and processing.
Attendees will also be able to experience telepresence solutions via cybernetic avatars operated remotely with AI support, real-time multilingual communications, and advanced digital security technologies.
Three strategic pillars
NICT’s strategy to promote Beyond 5G and 6G networks revolves around three main axes.
Under the CONNECT pillar, the institute works on digital inclusion by developing advanced infrastructures that integrate Open RAN, artificial intelligence, and non-terrestrial networks (NTN), as well as exploring ultra-fast links in the 300 GHz band.
In the EXPAND domain, NICT focuses on expanding human capabilities through technologies such as cybernetic avatars and AI-based Ultra-Spot Communications systems, which enable more precise and context-aware digital experiences.
Finally, the SECURE axis aims to strengthen resilience and digital trust through advanced monitoring tools like NICTER and quantum security solutions such as QKDN and Quantum Secure Cloud, designed to protect communications and data storage.
With this approach, NICT aspires not only to advance technological development in Japan but also to open new opportunities for industry, education, smart cities, and advanced digital services across Europe and other international markets.