MWC 2016: Smartphones, wearables and gadgets we’re looking forward to

From curved phones to waterproof smartphones, super-sleek tablets and trendy smartwatches, there are quite a few on the list

From curved phones to waterproof smartphones, super-sleek tablets and trendy smartwatches, here’s a lowdown on what to expect at MWC 2016 (GSMA)

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) is always an exciting time; over the past few years some of the biggest smartphone launches have taken place here. This year as well, expect cutting-edge technology when the four-day event kicks off in Barcelona on February 22. From curved phones to waterproof smartphones, super-sleek tablets and trendy smartwatches, there are quite a few on the list.

The preceding Sunday though is also a big day to watch out for with Samsung and LG unveiling their next-gen flagship models on February 21.

If you haven't been following the updates, here's a lowdown on what to expect:

SAMSUNG

The Korean giant has hosted some of the biggest launch events at the show before, including revealing some of its best selling phones so far. This year we expect the same with the launch of the much-awaited Galaxy S7.

Rumors of the next-gen device have been flying thick and fast, pointing to an iOS-like pressure sensitive display and overhauled camera features. The smartphone is also expected to get expandable storage unlike last year's Galaxy S6. Hopefully, these rumours are true.

(Samsung)

(Samsung)

Apart from the Galaxy S7 launch, leaked images of a new Samsung smartwatch sporting a circular screen and a rotating bezel indicate that there isn't much difference from the existing Gear S2.

While there's no guarantee of the smartwatch being unveiled, but there's a still a chance that we'll see it alongside the Galaxy S7 in Barcelona.

LG

LG, which typically launches its new products after the MWC, seems to be going head-on against its South Korean counterpart this year. The company is all geared up to unveil the LG G5 on the same day that Samsung has planned to showcase its Galaxy S7 range.

The Korean manufacturer has already sent out media invites for its press event with a rather cryptic message 'Play Begins'. This doesn't really suggest anything smartphone related but the tech community is betting on the LG G5 reveal.

(LG)

(LG)

Leaked images of the device suggests an all metal body that we've been hearing for months, along with a dual camera setup and a fingerprint sensor.

SONY

With the launch of the Xperia Z5, the Z5 Compact and the Z5 Premium last year, it's a tricky to predict what Sony has in store for 2016. Unlike for other companies, Z6 rumours have been extremely quiet and we can't be sure whether Sony will dabble in the flagship space soon again. Nevertheless, the company has something up its sleeve; it has issued invites for a February 22 press event.

(Sony)

(Sony)

In the past, Sony has made the big releases at the IFA trade show that happens in Berlin. So tablets and wearables is what we can expect here. Who knows, we may even get a glimpse of the much-hyped PlayStation VR, which numerous reports suggest goes on sale in September.

There isn't much chatter from HTC either, which is quite a change compared to last year when a multitude of leaks preceded the Taiwanese manufacturer's One M9 launch. Considering the silence, there may actually be nothing to look forward to this year at Barcelona.

But then again, there could be a surprise in store. Remember the Vive VR headset launched last year? As the event is close to the headset's April launch, we can expect announcements on the new developments about the company's virtual reality headgear.

MICROSOFT

Microsoft's shift to Windows 10 certainly didn't go according to plan, especially the mobile version of the operating system which is still riddled with issues. Nevertheless, the Redmond giant will be desperate to reclaim some bragging rights. Could it be through the mythical Surface Phone which will reportedly be a flagship device featuring an industrial design heavily inspired by the Surface Book and Surface Pro 4.

There could also be an unveiling of a mid-range Lumia 750, or perhaps even a Lumia 850.

HUAWEI

Huawei has been making its presence felt lately with the Nexus 6P and Mate S. The company has its MWC event scheduled for Sunday, February 21, where a slew of announcements are expected - a new smartphone, a new smartwatch and a new laptop. The laptop will reportedly be a dual-boot notebook capable of running both Android and Windows. The unveiling of the flagship P9 could also be on the cards apart from the Huawei Watch.

(Huawei)

(Huawei)