The support of mobile internet applications in UMTS networks through the open service access

Abstract

Third-generation wireless networks are expected to enable the mobile Internet to become a reality, offering fast Internet access and high-speed data services to mobile subscribers. For network operators to allow for the rapid development of innovative value-added applications on the scale seen in the Internet today, the wireless core network needs to be opened up for third-party applications provided by independent software vendors (ISVs). The Third-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is currently working on the production of technical specifications to provide a mechanism that would permit ISVs a standard interface to access network capabilities traditionally available to network operators. Within 3GPP, this mechanism is commonly referred to as the open service access (OSA). This open service access is predominantly targeted at Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) networks, allowing application developers to access the feature-rich core network capabilities. This open access enables network operators to offer innovative services to their subscribers allowing the ability to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. With the imminent commercial deployment of the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), existing fixed-line Internet service providers (ISPs) can now offer mobile Internet to end users in a UMTS environment where the responsibility of the network operator is reduced to providing IP connectivity. The increased competition from ISPs poses a big threat to the revenue stream of the network operator. This paper explores the possibilities of OSA to facilitate network operators in providing the mutual support of network capabilities and Internet content. These possibilities would allow the network operator to become a value-added mobile Internet service provider (VAM-ISP).3