Five Things I’d Love to See in Barcelona

As we all prepare for Mobile World Congress 2009, I thought I’d jot down a few things I’d love to see at the show. These are by no means predictions, more my thoughts on what I’d be pleased to see at the event.

First off, I hope there’ll be a touch-screen product that provides some genuine innovation, rather than just copying rival handsets, especially the iPhone. I’m thinking something along the lines of the BlackBerry Storm on steroids. I’d love to see a product that provides all the benefits of a touch screen, without the drawbacks of awkward text input. And slide-out qwerty keyboards don’t do it for me.

Secondly, a green product that appeals to what is arguably the least eco-minded audience — the developing world. This would be something that is bought not because it helps save the planet, but because it’s cheaper or does something better than an existing product.

I’d also like to see some clever thinking when it comes to the shape of USB dongles. Last year we saw some interesting hinged designs. Perhaps this year we’ll find a broadband modem that plugs into a laptop and looks cool.

My fourth wish is for a Bluetooth headset that uses bone-conducting technology for decent audio playback.

And finally, I’d love to see an Android phone that’s priced to reach the mid-tier and maybe even prepaid markets. With so many devices expected this year, I’m sure there’s room for one that isn’t aimed at the top end of the market.