IFA 2021 is cancelled

IFA's organizers no longer plan to hold the tech conference and trade show this year, citing uncertainties caused by the ongoing pandemic. Messe Berlin and gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH announced the decision after discussing public health experts and multiple stakeholders. Some of the concerns raised include the rapid emergence of the new COVID-19 variants in South Asia and the continued uncertainties of the rollout of vaccination programs worldwide.

"Innovation needs a platform; it needs the focus of global attention. That's why brands and manufacturers across the tech industry were very keen to come to IFA Berlin 2021. Unfortunately, the latest public health developments introduced too much risk into everybody's planning for the event," said Kai Hillebrandt, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH. "There simply are now too many uncertainties. Therefore, right now, it has become near impossible for anyone to responsibly plan their participation in any trade show."

The organizers are now focusing on collaborating with its partners from industry, trade, and media to get ready for IFA 2022. We're curious to see how Mobile World Congress organizers will react, given this year's MWC is still pushing through with a hybrid in-person and digital event in the coming months.

Source: PocketNow