Next generation multimode terminals

The following paper describes the one possible direction for the future evolution of mobile handsets towards multimode operation, where the terminal supports multiple air interface technologies. One of the challenges faced by the manufacturers of such devices is how to take best advantage of the available interfaces in such a way as to conform to user preferences and application requirements. This paper introduces an architecture outlining the additional functionality required to support intelligent multimode operation, where the terminal is able to decide autonomously which of the active interfaces is best for an application session, and to move these applications between available interfaces when appropriate. The paper also highlights some of the open issues that should be addressed in order to enable fully autonomous operation of these devices.