NetMob is the primary conference on the use of mobile phone datasets to analyze social, urban, societal, and industrial problems.
Main Conference
The 2026 edition marks the 10th anniversary of NetMob, continuing a tradition that began in 2010. Over the years, the conference has attracted participants from leading research institutions, industry, and public agencies worldwide. Originally focused on mobile phone data, NetMob has progressively evolved to address a broader range of questions related to human behavior, interactions, and complex social systems, leveraging large-scale behavioral data.
Following the success of NetMob 2025 in Paris, France, NetMob 2026 will be held in Niterói, Brazil, marking the conference’s first edition in the Southern Hemisphere. The event will take place at the Institute of Computing of Fluminense Federal University (UFF), located just across Guanabara Bay from Rio de Janeiro.
NetMob 2026 will bring together researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to discuss recent advances in mobile network data analysis. Topics will span multiple aspects of mobile and behavioral data analytics, including Call Detail Records (CDRs), mobile location data, Wi-Fi traces, app usage data, and social media content analysis.
As in previous editions, NetMob 2026 will feature a single-track format, with short contributed talks that provide a forum for presenting early-stage research as well as work published elsewhere.
Data Challenge
We invite participants to explore an urban mobility dataset from the city of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, and submit original analyses, models, or insights that contribute to improving the efficiency, reliability, and planning of the public bus transportation system.
The dataset will offer a rich, multifaceted view of the public bus transportation system operation in the city of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, over a continuous period. It combines high-frequency vehicle tracking data with passenger demand information and operational line data.
More information about the Data Challenge… Coming soon!
When & Where & How
NetMob 2026 will take place in the Institute of Computing of the Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Nestled in the vibrant city of Niterói, just across the bay from Rio de Janeiro, UFF offers an exceptional setting for international events. Niterói combines the charm of beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and a reputation for safety with a well-developed network of hotels and restaurants. The city provides a calm and welcoming atmosphere while remaining only a short and convenient ride—just minutes away by Uber—from the bustling energy of Rio de Janeiro. UFF’s modern campus and inspiring seaside views make it an ideal venue for global collaboration and exchange.
Rio de Janeiro is located nearby, connected to Niterói by the Rio–Niterói Bridge. Downtown Rio is only 21 km away, while the southern districts of Leblon and Ipanema are less than 35 km from Niterói.
Venue address: Institute of Computing of the Fluminense Federal University (UFF) - Avenue Gal. Milton Tavares de Souza, Niterói
The campus is a 26 KM from the International Airport of Rio de Janeiro
Visa & Logistics
Visas to enter Brazil are granted by Brazilian consulates abroad. Citizens of countries that are members of Mercosul do not require visas; only a valid passport or a valid identity document is required.
To learn more about the documentation and procedures for granting visas, please contact the Brazilian embassy/consulate in your country of origin. You can also check this page for further information on Brazilian visas, or click here to see the list of Brazilian representations abroad.
Citizens traveling with passports from Australia, Canada, and the United States who are visiting Brazil for tourism and business will be subject to visa requirements for entry into Brazilian territory starting April 10, 2025.
These citizens can request an e-Visa through the portal https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/ .
The process is easy and quick. If the requirements mentioned below are met, the applicant will receive the e-Visa by email within a few days. More information about the application process: Here
Steering Committee
Organizers
Our Sponsors and Partners
Past editions
NetMob 2025 - CNAM, Paris, France
October 8-10, 2025
NetMob 2024 - The World Bank Group, Washington DC, USA
October 7-9, 2024
NetMob 2023 - University Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
October 4-6, 2023
NetMob 2019 - Mathematical Institute, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
July 8-10, 2019
NetMob 2017 - Vodafone Theatre in Milan, Italy
April 5-7, 2017
NetMob 2015 - MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
April 7-10, 2015
NetMob 2013 - MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
May 2-3, 2013
NetMob 2011 - MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
October 10-11, 2011
NetMob 2010 - MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
May 11, 2010
2026