Seamless services [mobile interworking]
C. Akinalp · Communications Engineer · 2004
The concept of 100% network coverage, 100% of the time is starting to become a reality with the development of seamless mobile network services. The principle behind such services is that the user will connect seamlessly to the most appropriate of the available networks at any given time, from one handset. For example, to the WLAN hotspot at the airport, the 3G network within city limits and the GSM network elsewhere. For this to happen, operators must first overcome several technical challenges. The key enabler to these services is the variety of network technologies currently available. Many mobile operators now have several competing voice and data offerings, using different networks, within their own portfolios, including the new UMTSand WLAN-based services which have been added to existing offerings using GSM or GPRS networks. The article describes the challenges of letting wireless devices jump seamlessly from one radio network to another.