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With an overwhelming attendance of over 100,000 people, the Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC) was an event that brought together 1,100 speakers, 2,700 exhibitors and sponsors to the city of Barcelona.
From the emblematic Fira de Barcelona, the MWC was an epicenter of innovation, connections and, yes, emotions. This edition not only set the trends of the future, but also highlighted the importance of AV technical production at events of this scale.
As a privileged AV partner of GSMA, the official organiser of the MWC, Novelty Spain played a fundamental role, bringing to life key spaces such as the “MWC Main Stage” and the "MWC Broadcast Stage" during the four days of the event.
Do you want to go deep into the MWC to discover the magic of what happens behind the scenes from the perspective of AV technical production? Then read on, we'll tell you all about it.
MWC Main Stage
The epicenter of the congress where the world's top industry leaders shared their visions of the innovations that will shape our future. Every memorable moment, every inspirational keynote and disruptive technology presentation was supported by a meticulously orchestrated AV technical production.
In addition, there was an impressive line-up of technical professionals, state-of-the-art AV equipment, complex logistical planning and an indescribable passion for the world of events and AV technology.
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Image Source: GSMA Press Zone
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Image Source: GSMA Press Zone
Image Source: GSMA Press Zone
At events of the MWC's magnitude, this structure becomes even more monumental being a witness to the importance and complexity of AV technical production on a global scale.
Here are a few data points, equally as impressive as the event itself, that give a great insight into what goes into making an AV production on this scale.
Flawless logistics
To ensure an efficient flow, a total of 10 trucks, each with a capacity of 100m3. Thanks to the strategic location of our warehouse, just over 10 km from Barcelona's most important venues, this journey to the Fira de Barcelona was reduced to just 15 minutes.
This approach not only minimized our environmental impact, but also reflected our commitment to efficiency and sustainability in every aspect of our operations.
Our Warehouse team spent weeks testing and preparing the AV equipment, optimising every centimetre of space in the vehicles and loading the AV materials according to the established assembly plan.
Some 25 people were required to carry out the loading, delivery and unloading of the AV equipment in the various Fira pavilions.
This carefully planned logistical deployment is essential to ensure the success of an event of this size.
Dedicated and expert technical team
The behind-the-scenes success of MWC would not be possible without a dedicated and expert technical team. More than 60 professionals specialising in a wide field of disciplines from designers and operators to lighting, sound, rigging, video and broadcast technicians have worked together tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the event was perfect.
In addition, we have the expertise of graphic designers, decorators and ancillary staff, each one bringing their experience and skills to create an unforgettable experience for attendees and speakers alike. This multidisciplinary team is the true engine that drives the magic of MWC.
Image Source: MWC Barcelona Linkedin
Image Source: MWC Barcelona Linkedin
Image Source: Novelty Spain
Impressive stage
A giant and ephemeral auditorium has been designed and built to accommodate the attendees and all the necessary elements for the realisation of the different keynotes. Novelty Spain has gone one step further by complementing this imposing stage with an innovative stage ceiling design, integrating intelligent LED strips controlled by ArtNet.
This technological and visual approach highlights Novelty Spain's cutting-edge approach and commitment to excellence in the production of large-scale events such as the Mobile World Congress.
Image Source: Novelty Spain
Image Source: MWC Barcelona Linkedin
The big star, the 200m² main screen
The centre of attention in the auditorium was the stunning 200m² main screen flanked by two side screens and a huge top banner.
This technological wonder not only captured the attention during the sessions, but also emerged as a masterpiece of AV technology. With 862 meticulously assembled 50x50cm LED cabinets, the screen provided a gigantic canvas for audiovisual content with an impressive total resolution of 42,467,328 pixels.
In addition, over 10 kilometres of cables were required to distribute the video signal to approximately 50 destinations, along with over 40 Terabytes of storage and 160 megapixels of processing from our Aquilon RS4 and also Aquilon RS1.
These numbers are a testament to the technical detail that Novelty Spain brought to the event, ensuring an unparalleled visual experience for all those present at Mobile World Congress.
Experience the big time with our 2 minutes timelapse of the Main Stage and 200m² Giant LED Screen building. Click to watch!
The futuristic lighting
More than 200 LED spotlights flooded the “The Main Stage” auditorium with captivating light, creating an iconic atmosphere and a sense of exclusivity, which heightened the anticipation of what was about to be revealed.
The lighting design was key to making the audience feel part of the conference. The perfect choreography of the lights, their colour changes and the spectacular graphic content were designed to support the speaker's speech and leave a lasting impression in the mind of every attendee.
Every detail was taken care of from set-up to execution. And the real-time programming was precisely executed to ensure an unforgettable visual experience at Mobile World Congress.
Sound that amplifies the senses
To deliver a powerful message, an equally powerful audio system is required. With a total of 52 loudspeakers distributed between the main PA, Delay and FrontFill, plus stage monitors, full coverage and clear sound was guaranteed for all attendees present as well as for those following the event via streaming. As well as for the speakers.
We highlight the premiere of the new Yamaha DM7, recently launched on the market, to guarantee the recording and streaming signals.
Another notable innovation was the complete transition to Digital Domain in the signal flow, making protocols such as Dante and Milan compatible, allowing for greater flexibility and quality in audio production.
The power of rigging
With nearly 17 tonnes of AV equipment suspended over the heads of attendees at each keynote, safety was a top priority.
This massive load, lifted by over 220 D8+ motors, was evenly distributed over approximately 500 linear metres of truss, without compromising the creative technical design. Circular trusses were used to complete the shape of the stage, demonstrating an aesthetic approach.
In addition, rigorous audits, quality control and safety measures were carried out to ensure the integrity and success of the rigging.
Image Source: Novelty Spain
Image Source: Novelty Spain
The essence of the AV technical production and its technical implementation aims to impact the audience where lights, sound, structures and screens create an immersive experience that lasts in the memory of the attendees.
The MWC Broadcast Stage
Right in front of the Main Stage, Novelty Spain also set up the MWC Broadcast Stage, essential for the communication and broadcasting of the news presented at the congress and a key point for interviews and debates among leading industry figures. This Stage ran the partner sessions and Mobile World Live TV studio content.
From 4K resolution cameras, such as the Panasonic PTZ AW-UE 150, to a crane or “hot head” for capturing important angles, along with 1.9mm LED screens and over 50 lighting items, plus 20 professional sound speakers, high quality content was provided for both attendees and the global audience.
Image Source: GSMA Press Zone
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Image Source: GSMA Press Zone
Image Source: Novelty Spain
Image Source: Novelty Spain
With this overview and these spectacular numbers, we now understand that AV technical production is much more than screens and microphones, it is the tissue that connects every element of an event and gives it tremendous meaning.
Step into the world of technical audiovisual production and experience the grandiosity behind and in front of the scenes with Novelty Spain's know-how. We are here to ensure that your next event comes to life with unprecedented expertise, precision and passion.
Let's create something great together.
