Sony became the latest exhibitor to withdraw from Mobile World Congress on Monday, following in the footsteps of LG, Ericsson, Amazon and Nvidia.
The companies have all pulled out of the show, which is due to be held in Barcelona at the end of this month, due to fears over coronavirus outbreak.
In a statement, Sony said its press conference, where it's expected to show off its latest Xperia flagship, will go ahead as scheduled, but would now be live-streamed via the internet.
"As we place the utmost importance on the safety and wellbeing of our customers, partners, media and employees, we have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from exhibiting and participating at MWC 2020 in Barcelona, Spain," the company said.
First disclosed in late December, the virus has infected over 37,000 people and killed over 800 as of Feb. 9. Companies including Apple, Google and Nintendo have closed offices, limited business travel and faced supply chain disruptions.
The GSMA, the organization that runs MWC, said it will have additional medical personnel on-site. It will also put other measures in place to reduce the risks posed by the disease, including a no-handshake policy.
In spite of assurances from the GSMA, many companies have decided it's not worth risking the health of their employees to attend. Samsung still plans to attend the show, but has said it is paring back the number of executives it sends.
The GSMA did not immediately respond to request for comment.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Latest Stories
-
Expansion Drive: Takoradi Technical University increases faculties
53 minutes -
SHS heads demand payment of outstanding funds before reopening of schools
1 hour -
We thank God for the 2024 general elections – Akufo-Addo
2 hours -
Coconut Grove Beach Resort marks 30 years of excellence with memorable 9 lessons & carols service
2 hours -
WAFU B U-17 Girls’ Cup: Black Maidens beat Nigeria on penalties to win inaugral tournament
3 hours -
Real Madrid beat Sevilla to keep pressure on leaders Atletico
4 hours -
Liverpool put six past Spurs to go four points clear
4 hours -
Manchester United lose 3-0 at home to Bournemouth yet again
4 hours -
CHAN 2024Q: ‘It’s still an open game’ – Didi on Ghana’s draw with Nigeria
4 hours -
CHAN 2024Q: Ghana’s Black Galaxies held by Nigeria in first-leg tie
5 hours -
Dr Nduom hopeful defunct GN bank will be restored under Mahama administration
5 hours -
Bridget Bonnie celebrates NDC Victory, champions hope for women and youth
6 hours -
Shamima Muslim urges youth to lead Ghana’s renewal at 18Plus4NDC anniversary
7 hours -
Akufo-Addo condemns post-election violence, blames NDC
7 hours -
DAMC, Free Food Company, to distribute 10,000 packs of food to street kids
8 hours