Mobile-to-mobile convergence

The term mobile to mobile calling is used in many mobile phone plans to refer to making calls to other mobile phones using the same provider's network--which is often cheaper than other calls.

Mobile to mobile convergence (MMC) is a term to describe a technology used in modern computing and telephony. The term is an offshoot of fixed mobile convergence (FMC) and uses dual mode (cellular network and WiFi) phones with a special software client and an application server to connect voice calls and business applications via a VoWLAN or through cellular service.

Mobile-to-mobile convergence differs from conventional FMC in that the technology uses the WLAN to route calls via the internet as a primary function, and uses the wireless carrier network if the WLAN is not present as a secondary function. It is significant since it is viewed as a means to compete with carrier companies since the calls are routed around the cellular network. This is viewed as a more efficient use of networking technology than standard FMC solutions that are available as well, since most of the latter use the carrier network as the primary means of communication and do not leverage the lower cost and controls of IP networks that are generally installed at most modern businesses. In theory, it also provides the capability of providing a greater voice coverage area than either carrier or WLAN technology alone since some areas do not have cellular service coverage and others do not have WiFi.

The first offering known in the market successfully deploying MMC is beCherry, which is delivered by Belgian company Mondial Telecom. They offer an MMC solution on Symbian, iOS and Android. Other smartphone OSs are also considered.

Key Aspects of Mobile-to-Mobile Convergence

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  1. Network Interoperability: MMC emphasizes the importance of ensuring that different mobile networks, such as 4G and 5G, work together smoothly. This includes seamless handovers when users move between networks without any loss in service quality. The interoperability is crucial as telecom operators invest heavily to handle increasing data demands, ensuring that their networks can accommodate the needs of mobile users across different regions and platforms.[1]
  2. Unified Communication Services: The convergence trend is leading to the unification of communication services like voice, video, and messaging into a single platform that can operate across multiple devices and networks. This approach not only improves the user experience but also simplifies service delivery for providers by reducing the need for multiple infrastructures.
  3. Cross-Platform Functionality: As mobile devices continue to diversify, MMC ensures that applications and services are compatible across various operating systems like Android and iOS. This cross-platform functionality reduces compatibility issues and allows for a more consistent user experience regardless of the device being used. [1]
  4. Enhanced User Experience: A central goal of MMC is to provide a unified and streamlined user experience. By integrating different services and networks, users can transition between different devices and apps smoothly, without disruptions or the need to repeatedly log in or reconfigure settings.
  5. Security and Privacy: With data moving across multiple networks and devices, MMC necessitates robust security measures. Ensuring the security and privacy of communications and data is vital to protect users from potential threats, particularly as the convergence trend grows and more devices become interconnected.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Mobile Experts on the state of Fixed Mobile Convergence in the U.S. telecommunications market – Technology Blog". techblog.comsoc.org. Retrieved 2024-08-25.