2024 Programme

Join us for a full day at the Dream Stage with MediaMarktSaturn. 

This event, moderated by Verena Gründel, will cover various aspects of MediaMarktSaturn's business and its future strategies. Attendees will learn about innovations, partnerships, and brand evolution.

All sessions will be held in German. 

Sascha Mager, CEO of MediaMarktSaturn Deutschland, will kick off the event with a welcome address, setting the stage for the day’s discussions on retail innovation and brand growth.

A panel of MediaMarktSaturn executives and key suppliers, moderated by Verena Gründel, will explore how future-oriented partnerships can enhance retailer and partner interactions. The discussion will focus on innovative approaches and strategies needed to meet evolving customer expectations and market demands.

Michael Schuld, CCMO of MediaMarktSaturn, will present the journey and transformation of the brand, highlighting key strategies and milestones that have shaped its growth and market presence.

Torsten Ahlers will discuss the success strategies of MediaMarktSaturn’s retail media in the omnichannel landscape, emphasizing the integration of digital and physical retail experiences to drive sales and customer engagement.

Christian Kollesch will elaborate on how MediaMarktSaturn’s marketplace platform serves as a key driver for brand growth, detailing strategies for expansion and competitive positioning in the market.

Ralf Schmitt and the audio agency German Wahnsinn will reveal how generative AI is being utilized to create innovative sound branding for MediaMarktSaturn, enhancing auditory brand identity and customer connection.

Björn Ognibeni will deliver a keynote on the future of e-commerce, drawing inspiration from digital advancements in China and exploring the integration of AI, social engagement, and entertainment in online retail.

Featuring Hollywood voice actor Dietmar Wunder, this podcast session hosted by BeHaind and Robert Hofmann will delve into future technologies and the role of AI in movies and series, offering insights into entertainment and technology convergence.

Join H.E In-ho LEE, Executive Vice Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association, and former 1st Vice Minister of Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy in Korea, to uplift a discussion of trading towards innovation.  

What to expect during his session: 
Sub1. Trade and Economic Cooperation between Korea and Germany
Sub2. Startup Eco-System of Korea and Germany
Sub3. IFA and NextRise, what they matter
Sub4. The Era of Digital Innovation and its way forward : Korea and Germany 

Health and care in the digital field of tension: Smart technologies, AI and robots have the potential to provide the answer to the challenges of the shortage of skilled workers and an aging society. But what about the social acceptance of a health and care system that is kept running less by people and more by machines and technology?

Dr. Sara Warneke, Managing Director of gfu Consumer & Home Electronics, and Dr. Martin Schulte, Global Sector Leader Consumer Durables at the strategy consultancy Oliver Wyman, will present the results of an international survey on the use of smart technologies in health and care. Afterwards you will discuss with:

• Constanze Büchner, CEO of CrewLinQ, a start-up that has developed a digital solution for outage management in the health and care sector
• David Reger, CEO of Neura Robotics, a high-tech company from Germany that develops and manufactures collaborative robots with cognitive capabilities that work with humans.
• Dr. med. Tobias Glaunsinger, a specialist in general medicine and infectiology from Berlin Prenzlauer Berg, who meets the challenges of digitization in the healthcare system on a daily basis.

 

Important note: Panel language: German - English subtitles available

Sascha Pallenberg is a German tech blogger and consultan named one of the NEXT 100 top influencers in the European digital industry in 2013. For four consecutive years (2010-2013), Sascha won the 'Top 20 Smart Mobile Device Pundit' award for the most influential bloggers and journalists in mobile computing. Later in 2015, Sascha was awarded the 'Golden Blogger' as Blogger of the Year in Germany before moving to Daimler AG's Corporate Communications department as Head of Digital Transformation in February 2017. He was then Chief Awareness Officer at aware, Germany's first sustainability platform, until 2023. Sascha Pallenberg is MeTacheles Chief Editor and supports companies in sustainable transformation processes.

David Reger will shed light on how cognitive robots can revolutionize the job market and free humanity from monotonous and dangerous tasks. With the ability to perceive their environment, act autonomously and learn from experience, these robots represent a significant step forward. Reger will demonstrate how NEURA Robotics' technologies, including the world's first cognitive robot MAiRA, offer innovative solutions for automation that free humans and promote creative, meaningful work.

Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA) is Taiwan’s flagship startup ecosystem-building program, launched by the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) in 2018. Its vision is to establish a vibrant international startup ecosystem and foster entrepreneurship by leveraging technology, talent, markets, and capital from around the world.

In 2024, the NSTC launched the Taiwan Chip-based Industrial Innovation Program (Taiwan CBI), which aims to enhance Taiwan's semiconductor industry by integrating chips with advanced technologies like AI and attracting global tech startups and investments to drive innovation.

Taiwan CBI is designed to attract international talent and strengthen Taiwan’s position as a leading center for semiconductor innovation. Incentives will be provided to qualified startup teams coming to Taiwan, including chip tape-out, IP services, initial funding, and more."

Science & Startups, the joint network of startup services from TUB, HUB, FUB, in collaboration with Charité Berlin, is hosting a "Speed Dating with Startup Coaches" event. Participants are invited to share their startup ideas and receive immediate, personalized feedback from expert coaches. This event offers a unique opportunity to discuss the feasibility of their ideas and explore potential funding pathways in a dynamic and interactive format.

This session will be taking place at IFA NEXT Lounge.

Join us for an exciting global pitch battle featuring cutting-edge hardware AI startups. Watch as innovative companies compete head-to-head, showcasing breakthrough solutions that redefine the future of technology. AI-driven tools will be at the heart of the discussion. This event brings together world-changing ideas from around the globe. Don’t miss out on the grand finale where one visionary startup will emerge as the ultimate winner. Tune in and witness the future of hardware unfold!

The list selected by The Factory Netwok:
GenGenAI
Impactive AI
Nuwa Pen
Morphingi
PIA Space 

Brought to you by W-Lounge, founded by Mali Baum who is chairing the ifa next advisory board, we are proud to announce the panel discussion "The Next Decade of Play: The Digital-Physical-AI Synthesis" 

This panel will delve into the future of play over the next decade, focusing on the increasing interconnection between digital and physical worlds. Experts will also discuss the role AI will play in shaping these experiences, offering insights into emerging trends and innovations. Join us for a visionary discussion on the evolution of play and the impact of AI on our interconnected future. 

Brought to you by W-Lounge, founded by Mali Baum who is chairing the ifa next advisory board, we are proud to announce the panel discussion, "The Way We Live, The Way We Work - Smart Cities and Sustainable Real Estate," scheduled for Sunday, September 8, 2024, starting at 10:45 AM. The panel will be moderated by Laurelie Martin, CEO of UnitedShare. Our distinguished guests include Daniel Müller, Venture Manager at Bosch Digital; Nikita Roshkow, CEO of AHOY; and Nils Wagner, CEO of New Ventures at REHAU. This session will explore the future of urban living and sustainable development in real estate.

Chipolo is - and has always been - about more than just helping you find your lost keys, wallet, or suitcase. As a representation of their commitment to sustainability, this leading Bluetooth item tracker brand created the Chipolo ONE Ocean Edition - a "Gear of the Year" Winner (Wired Magazine) that is a true game-changer when it comes to the ways we buy and the style in which we consume gadgets. Join Chipolo CEO Primož Zelenšek and award-winning global advisor and internationally recognized tech expert Heather Delaney as they bring you the successful story of an eco-friendly tech product that is sure to inspire others to follow suit.

We've been promised flying cars for 100 years, and it appeared that the laws of physics told us it was impossible. Learn about the Alef flying car - the best-selling aircraft in history, with over 2 billion people reached through news and social networks, and the first historical electric car with vertical takeoff and flight.

Witness a stationary model at IFA and watch footage of the real flying car during Jim Dukhovny's keynote.

Sirène. Feel safe in public. Anytime. Anywhere.

Get to know more during this talk with Caroline Lilleør Brand Manager for Sirène

 

The energy industry is facing more complex and multidimensional challenges than ever before. Issues such as climate change, increasing energy demand, and the necessity for sustainable energy resources are all pressing concerns before us. In particular, climate change stands as one of the most severe challenges of our time. Extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and ecosystem destruction caused by global warming are already significantly impacting our lives.
To address these issues, traditional methods have their limitations. We need new approaches. Innovative solutions leveraging data and AI can be the answer.

Nour Idelbi reveals how companies can effectively target Generation Z. Learn about the latest trends and strategies in marketing to this digital and values-driven generation. Get inspired and gain valuable practical tips and insights to take your marketing campaigns to the next level.

Join us for a cutting-edge panel discussion "Venture Clienting: Startups Incept and Corporations Bring Innovation to Life," featuring industry experts like Fabian (CEO Founder @ GlassDollar), Axel Menneking (Vice President Startup Incubation & Venturing at Deutsche Telekom) and Mathias Weber (Venture Manager @ BSH Startup Kitchen). This session leverages insights from hundreds of successful collaborations and from exclusive data from a study analysing 80,000 startups - corporate collaborations. Expect deep strategic understanding and practical takeaways that highlight how corporations can seamlessly convert startup innovations into successful market solutions.

Join us for an exciting global pitch battle featuring cutting-edge hardware sustainability startups. Watch as innovative companies compete head-to-head, showcasing breakthrough solutions that redefine the future of technology. A place to see bloom sustainable energy innovations, this event brings together world-changing ideas from around the globe. Don’t miss out on the grand finale where one visionary startup will emerge as the ultimate winner. Tune in and witness the future of hardware unfold!

The list selected by The Factory Network:
Evar
Solaires
IDB
KoreaGreenData
MoveAWheeL

Meet Carsten Waldeck, CEO and Founder at SHIFT GmbH, for a workshop followed by a Q&A!

While the adoption of AI in the commercial sector is booming, AI and Data Science are barely applied for solving major environmental, humanitarian, and social problems. Mainly, it is because NGOs that work on these problems struggle to adopt new technologies like AI and have barely access to skilled AI and Data Science Professionals. In this talk we will focus on several use cases how AI can help tackle humanitarian and ecological problems of this world and how we can help nonprofit sector to apply AI for benefit of all by creating a strong network of volunteering AI professionals.

The era of passwords is coming to an end, with new alternative methods of online authentication steadily taking their place to secure our ever-changing digital identities. With AI allowing hackers to carry out cyber attacks on a much wider scale, passwords—with their vulnerabilities—are simply not enough to provide a strong sense of security anymore.

During his presentation, Sorin Manole will draw a parallel between online authentication solutions and more familiar technologies, guiding participants through the evolution of our digital identities and predicting what’s next.

Using real life examples, Marc will demonstrate how the power of GenAI enables enterprise retailers to provide their online customers with an in-store-like shopping experience.

Join us at the Tuya Global Developer Summit (Europe).

What to expect?

14:00-14:05 Opening Remarks by Tina Yu, General Manager of Eurasia, Tuya Smart

14:05-14:20 AI-powered Efficiency: Redefine Smart Living with Tuya by Alex Yang, Co-founder & COO, Tuya Smart

14:20-14:30 Topic TBC by Dr. Ronald Wulff, Head of Germany Specialist Solution, AWS

14:30-14:40 The Effects of AI and IoT to Everyday Life by Selahattin Köksal, Head of IoT & Digital Strategy, VESTEL

14:40-14:50 Powering Sustainability: The Smart Homes of Today by Daniel Gorr, CMO & Managing Director, Tink

14:50-15:00 Cooperation Announcement: Project France & Project UK 

Join us for an exciting global pitch battle featuring cutting-edge hardware for Emerging Consumer Tech startups. Watch as innovative companies compete head-to-head, showcasing breakthrough solutions that redefine the future of technology.  Understanding next-gen consumer gadgets, this event brings together world-changing ideas from around the globe. Don’t miss out on the grand finale where one visionary startup will emerge as the ultimate winner. Tune in and witness the future of hardware unfold!

The list selected by The Factory Network:
FYTA
kikaGO
PLAUD.AI
TheLittleCat
ViXion

We’re entering a new era where sustainability is no longer optional—it's a baseline requirement. For businesses, this is an opportunity to meet evolving consumer demands. As electricity grids become more volatile, there’s a chance to cut real emissions by shifting energy use to times when cleaner power is available - and attract and engage new users with these sustainable solutions. Join us to learn how consumer electronics companies can build smarter products that optimize energy use and empower their consumers to lower their carbon footprint and energy costs.

EuroCommerce explores the transformative impact of eco-design and circular economy practices within the retail and wholesale sector. As sustainability becomes increasingly vital, these practices not only help in reducing environmental impact but also present significant opportunities for innovation and growth. The discussion will bring together industry leaders, including a member of the European Parliament, to delve into policy frameworks, practical implementations, and future trends. Attendees will gain insights into how national associations across 27 countries, sector associations, and international companies are embracing these concepts to drive forward a more sustainable future. Join us to understand the intersection of regulatory support, industry collaboration, and innovative design in creating a circular economy that benefits businesses, consumers, and the planet.

The IFA SUSTAINABILITY platform powered by Tagesspiegel will spotlight one of the most significant megatrends of our time, making it an integral part of this year's IFA stage program and core identity. We will explore how sustainability can be aligned with economic success, examine the leverage that businesses and industries have to enhance sustainability, and discuss the role of policy frameworks. The platform will showcase best practices and establish a distinct sustainability profile for IFA.

The long-discussed "right to repair" is imminent. We will explore how it could transform the technology landscape for both consumers and manufacturers. Will manufacturers soon compete to offer the longest-lasting products? Will more consumers gravitate towards higher-quality, more expensive devices? The promised lifespan of software updates has already set a trend in this direction. However, companies face significant challenges in implementing the "right to repair." What measures will ensure its uniform and effective implementation at the national level? Additionally, how do longevity and technical progress, particularly regarding energy efficiency, converge from the perspectives of industry, politics, and consumers?

An energy-efficient and sustainable product will still cost the consumer more. Studies indicate that while consumers demand greater sustainability from their favorite brands, few are willing or able to pay a premium for it unless it pays for itself through lower energy costs. In contrast, the willingness to pay for CO2-neutral or socially responsible production is significantly lower. How can producers who heavily invest in sustainable products and production methods be protected from competition that does not follow this path? What legislative measures, shifts in societal attitudes, and political and corporate communication strategies will make such products the standard rather than a premium niche? Is the EU energy efficiency label still effective at incentivizing producers to manufacture efficiently and encouraging consumers to purchase such products? Could similar labels serve as additional indicators of highly sustainable products?

Supply chains have great potential to ensure deep-rooted sustainability in all aspects. However, they are plenty in numbers and compliance brings bureaucracy with it. Different directives are urging producers to take closer looks at what their devices are made of. Investing in production that complies with human rights and environmental standards can in turn bring great opportunities for greater independence and resilience.

Join us at 3:40 pm for a live recording of the "Tagesspiegel Gradmesser" podcast, hosted by Tagesspiegel editor Ruth Ciesinger. This session will feature Nora Sophie Griefahn, co-founder of the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) NGO, as she discusses innovative approaches to sustainable design and circular economy.

Only three finalists will go head-to-head.  

Meet our esteemed panel of judges, which includes industry leaders, tech visionaries, and investment experts who will evaluate the pitches and steer our audiences’ opinion:

Stefanie Trapl: Expert in launching premium brands, Stefanie is passionate about consumer electronics and market strategy.
Robert Kopka: Founder of StartMatch.ai, Robert excels in simplifying grant applications for startups and mentoring entrepreneurs.
Mark Caffrey: CEO of Syntropic Medical, Mark is advancing neurostimulation techniques for psychiatric disorders.
Niklas Spichalsky: Business angel and founder, Niklas is focused on leveraging technology to transform markets.
David Weng: Leading expert in sports IoT, Ming-Che is pioneering RTLS total solutions.
Heather Swift Hunt: Heather empowers hardware startups and creators worldwide, having guided thousands at Kickstarter.
Peter Machona: CTO of HeySalad, Peter drives innovation at the intersection of technology and agriculture.
Olga Lysak: A multilingual leader and AI enthusiast, Olga manages Lemberg Solutions' Hamburg office and drives charitable initiatives.
Stefanie Koch: With 15+ years in hardware and software, Stefanie excels in sustainable product design for a circular economy.