This chapter has shown how operators can move from legacy GSM/GPRS networks towards initial launch of UMTS networks and then on to reach the real 'all-IP' solution of 'IM' and the feature-rich user opportunity that this offers. Operators will see benefits from the cost and capability optimisations in the circuit-switched area as well as the service migration path towards IP-based voice and multimedia applications. As the race to gain UMTS licences and to roll out networks gains speed, and as operators move from launch phase to consolidation it is obvious that the evolving UMTS architecture will give operators the platform to broaden out the service capability to users. This will not only provide higher speed access to data/Internet services but also create an environment to deliver services which are a long way away from the current simple telephony services we experience and use today. In reality, these new features cannot be created by a 'big bang' approach and some of the limitations of legacy systems must be taken into account when providing the complete package for users. This will ensure that while users can access the feature rich capabilities offered by IM, they still get usable and meaningful capability when served by legacy networks.

Inspec keywords: IP networks; cellular radio; multimedia communication; 3G mobile communication; packet radio networks

Other keywords: circuit switching; all-IP solution; GSM-GPRS networks; service migration path; multimedia communication; IP-based voice applications; UMTS networks; telephony services; Internet services

Subjects: Multimedia communications