MWC 2025 day 1 recap: Must-see gadgets from the event

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, one of the biggest events in the mobile technology world, has wrapped up its first day in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. As in previous years, this year’s event showcased boundary-pushing innovations, intriguing concepts, and devices poised to shape the future of the market.

From smartphones and laptops to augmented reality glasses and wearables, a diverse array of products took center stage. Key themes this year included sustainability, modularity, and seamless artificial intelligence (AI) integration—trends that underscored the direction of mobile tech evolution.

Best gadgets from MWC 2025: Day 1

So, what were the standout devices from Day 1?

Lenovo “Codename Flip”

One of the most eye-catching reveals of the first day was Lenovo’s ThinkBook “Codename Flip” AI PC concept. At first glance, it appears to be a standard 13-inch laptop, but when fully unfolded, it transforms into an impressive 18.1-inch vertical OLED display with a 2000 x 2664 resolution and a 3:4 aspect ratio. Unlike many other expandable laptops, such as the Asus Zenbook Duo, it stands upright without requiring a kickstand, thanks to its innovative design.

Powered by Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 processor, paired with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, this concept device offers versatile modes: a clamshell laptop for traditional use, a vertical workspace for multitasking, and a tablet mode for flexibility. Features like the Smart ForcePad with a three-layer illuminated dashboard (including numeric keys and media controls) and Thunderbolt 4 ports add to its appeal. While Lenovo hasn’t confirmed production plans, this concept exemplifies their forward-thinking approach to AI-driven productivity and ergonomic design.

Image: Lenovo Infinix Solar-powered phone

Infinix unveiled a groundbreaking concept: a smartphone that charges itself using solar energy. Leveraging perovskite photovoltaic materials and AI-driven algorithms, the phone’s integrated solar panel can generate up to 2W of supplementary power from ambient light, both indoors and outdoors. While this isn’t enough to replace traditional charging, Infinix positions it as a way to extend standby time or serve as a practical backup in emergencies.

Additionally, Infinix showcased a phone with E-Color Shift 2.0 technology, an AI-powered e-ink back panel that dynamically changes colors—up to 30 unique styles—based on weather conditions or user preferences. Neither device is slated for commercial release yet, but they signal a promising step toward reducing the energy footprint of mobile devices.

Image: Infinix Xiaomi 15 Series unveiled

Xiaomi made waves with its camera-focused innovations, introducing the Modular Optic System (MOS) alongside the flagship Xiaomi 15 Ultra. The MOS brings modularity to smartphone photography: a magnetic ring on the phone’s rear allows users to attach various lenses effortlessly, offering customization for both casual users and professional photographers.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, boasts a retro-inspired design, a 1-inch main sensor, a 200MP telephoto lens with additional zoom capabilities, and an ultra-wide-angle camera. Running HyperOS 2 on Android 15, with 16GB of RAM and premium build quality, it’s a standout in the high-end segment—though its price reflects its premium status. Launched globally at MWC 2025, it’s poised to compete with the best in mobile photography and performance.

Image: Xiaomi Nothing Phone (3a) and (3a Pro)

Nothing kicked off MWC 2025 with the highly anticipated launch of the Nothing Phone (3a) and its sibling, the (3a Pro), on March 3rd. Known for their minimalist design and transparent aesthetic, these budget-friendly Android devices bring premium features to a wider audience. The Phone (3a) sports a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, while the (3a Pro) ups the ante with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, offering near-flagship performance. Both models retain the signature Glyph Interface—customizable LED strips on the back for notifications and calls—but now integrate AI-driven enhancements like real-time call transcription and adaptive lighting based on ambient conditions. Priced at $399 and $599 respectively, these phones aim to disrupt the mid-range market, blending style, substance, and affordability. Nothing’s CEO Carl Pei emphasized their mission to “make tech fun again,” and the buzz on the show floor suggests they’re on the right track.

Image: Nothing HMD Fusion with modular smart outfits

HMD Global, the force behind Nokia’s revival, unveiled an evolved version of the HMD Fusion on Day 1, showcasing its innovative modular “Smart Outfits” system. Launched in India late 2024, this Snapdragon 4 Gen 2-powered smartphone (6.67-inch 120Hz display, 108MP dual camera, 5000mAh battery with 33W charging) now offers interchangeable covers that add functionality—like a gaming pad with physical controls, a wireless charging backplate, or a ruggedized case with an integrated kickstand. Priced at $249 with a free outfit (valued at $79), it’s a compelling pitch for customization fans. At MWC 2025, HMD also teased a collaboration with FC Barcelona, hinting at a special edition featuring the club’s colors and the classic Snake game preloaded. While not a high-end powerhouse, the Fusion’s modularity and partnerships signal HMD’s ambition to carve a unique niche in a crowded market.

Image: HMD Global Tecno Spark Slim

Tecno stole the spotlight with the Spark Slim, billed as the world’s thinnest smartphone at just 5.75mm thick—outdoing even the rumored Galaxy S25 Edge. Unveiled on March 3rd, this sleek device doesn’t skimp on power, packing a 5200mAh battery with 33W fast charging, a 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, and a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 chipset. Its triple-camera system, led by a 64MP main sensor, promises sharp shots despite the ultra-slim profile. Tecno’s focus on affordability shines through with a starting price of $299, targeting emerging markets while appealing to design-conscious consumers globally. The Spark Slim’s featherlight 165-gram build and premium glass finish make it a Day 1 highlight, proving that thin doesn’t mean fragile—or underpowered.

Image: Tecno Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite audio innovations

Qualcomm made waves beyond its usual chipset reveals by showcasing the Snapdragon X Elite’s audio prowess, integrated into new devices like the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro. Announced on Day 1, this chipset powers Wi-Fi-enabled earbuds capable of streaming 24-bit/96kHz lossless audio—ditching Bluetooth’s limitations for uninterrupted playback across greater distances (think multiple rooms or floors). The Buds 5 Pro, priced at $199, leverage this tech alongside AI-driven noise cancellation that adapts to environmental changes in real time. Qualcomm also teased partnerships with Lenovo and Honor for laptops and wearables, hinting at a broader ecosystem push. For audiophiles and multitaskers, this marks a leap forward in wireless sound quality, unveiled to a captivated MWC audience.

Samsung refreshes Galaxy A Series

Samsung didn’t hold back either, unveiling refreshed models in its Galaxy A series: the A56, A36, and A26. The Galaxy A56 leads the pack with a 6.7-inch Full HD display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, a versatile camera setup (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro), and a 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. Priced at $499, it strikes an appealing balance of performance and affordability, targeting a broad audience.

The A36 ($399) and A26 ($299) offer slightly toned-down specs but retain key features like Full HD 120Hz displays and triple-camera systems (50MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro). These models reinforce Samsung’s commitment to delivering value-driven options without sacrificing modern essentials.

Image: Samsung TCL RayNeo X3 Pro

TCL introduced the RayNeo X3 Pro smart glasses. A significant upgrade from the X2 Pro, this model weighs under 3 ounces and sports a sleeker, less conspicuous design. Its micro-LED waveguides deliver a vibrant full-color display with 2,500 nits of brightness, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chipset. Features like real-time translation, object recognition, and an AI assistant enhance its utility.

However, battery life remains a weak point—features disable below 10% charge, and the low-battery warning kicks in after just 10 minutes of use in some scenarios. Set to launch mid-2025 for under $2,000, it’s a compelling step forward for AR wearables, though it’s not without limitations.

Image: RayNeo Honor Magic Watch 5 Ultra

Honor debuted the Magic Watch 5 Ultra. Combining a stylish design with advanced health tracking—including ECG functionality, sleep monitoring, and activity metrics—it promises an impressive 15-day battery life. Unveiled alongside Honor’s “Alpha Plan” AI ecosystem announcement, this smartwatch caters to both everyday users and fitness enthusiasts, standing out in a crowded market.

Image: Honor Day 1 takeaways

MWC 2025’s opening day struck a balance between bold concepts and market-ready innovations. Solar power, modular cameras, and AI integration emerged as defining trends, hinting at the near future of mobile technology. Lenovo, Xiaomi, Samsung, TCL, and Honor showcased devices that push boundaries while affordable options like the Galaxy A series keep tech accessible.

With two more days to go (until March 6, 2025), the event promises even more surprises. Stay tuned!

Featured image credit: MWC