ITU Telecom World in Doha, Qatar Seeks Technological, Social and Design Innovations

Geneva, Switzerland, August 4, 2014–ITU today announced a call for innovations, a global hunt for the innovators, makers or entrepreneurs who are using technologies such as 3D printing or advanced robotics, or working within fields such as bio-mimicry, which uses technological innovations to imitate nature in order to solve problems – those who can make a real difference in a rapidly evolving and changing world. The call was launched in conjunction with innovation partner Ars Electronica. Selected innovations will be showcased at the upcoming ITU Telecom World 2014 in Doha this December.

“The advent of technologies such as 3D Printing, robots and Unarmed, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles – or UUAVs – have significantly enhanced the possibilities for transforming lives, especially in the remotest corners of the world,” said ITU Secretary-General Hamadoun I. Touré. “I am delighted that our upcoming event in Doha will provide the ideal platform to showcase these technologies to a global audience and help us realize their full potential.”

The call for innovations is open to everyone, with no age limit. Innovations can be submitted online via the dedicated platform here by 30 September, when they will be assessed by a panel of innovation experts. Selected entries will be given the opportunity to showcase in the Lab, part of the InnovationSpace  at ITU Telecom World 2014.

Pioneered at ITU Telecom World 2013 in Bangkok, the Lab provides a dedicated space where the event’s participants can discuss, touch, interact, and experiment with truly cutting-edge innovations. Demos last year included origami-inspired robotics, gravity-powered lighting, thought-controlled gaming and Paro, a therapeutic robot in the form of a baby seal.

ITU Telecom World 2014 will take place 7-10 December in Doha, Qatar. For more information on how you can be a part of this key event, visit telecomworld.itu.int