Google is the latest company—and arguably one of the biggest names in the industry—to pull out of the upcoming in-person Mobile World Congress 2021 in June in Barcelona. It joins the likes of Nokia, Ericsson, Oracle, and Sony to refuse to be part of the event.
This is Google's statement about its decision:
Following our current COVID-19 travel restrictions and protocols, Google has made the decision to not exhibit at Mobile World Congress this year. We will continue to collaborate closely with GSMA and support our partners through virtual opportunities. We look forward to this year's activities and seeing you in Barcelona in 2022.
The Verge points out how the event can potentially be a superspreader event as it only requires standard precautions like mask-wearing and a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival. Vaccinations weren't needed when they made the announcement in February. But perhaps things might change now that vaccination is underway in many countries. Or maybe it might change its mind about holding the event.