Network-directed wd cell reselection method

Abstract

A method, network node, and wireless device (WD) for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method includes obtaining an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set including at least one index and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index. The method further includes selecting one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service based at least in part on the index included in the parameter set.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wireless communications, and more specifically to network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection. BACKGROUND

[0002] Idle and inactive mode mobility

[0003] In wireless communication systems standardized by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as New Radio (NR) (also referred to as “5G”) and Long Term Evolution (LTE), a WD remains associated with a cell (although not actively communicating with the cell) when the WD is in idle mode and / or inactive mode. The WD is said to be “camped on” the cell.

[0004] As the WD moves around, the WD can need to change the cell it is camped on. This mobility is controlled by the network node using thresholds and priorities provided by the network node to the WD. The network node can provide such thresholds and priorities (referred to below as parameters) to the WD. These parameters can indicate, for example, how much better another cell has to be than the current cell for the WD to move to the other cell. In addition, the network node provides a priority to the WD, which indicates, for example, on which frequency the WD will prefer to camp on.

[0005] The network node can provide the parameters to the WD via broadcast signaling or by dedicated signaling. The WD applies the broadcasted parameters, unless a dedicated priority is provided to the WD, or in other words: the WD can prioritize dedicated signaling over broadcast signaling.

[0006] One motivation for dedicated signaling is that the network, via the network node, can achieve load balancing; the network can influence how many WDs prioritize a particular frequency, and thus distribute the WDs among different cells. Note that although the WD does not generate any traffic when the WD is in idle / inactive mode, the WD will cause load when the WD requests access to enter connected mode. Thus, if all WDs camp on the same cell carrier or frequency, they will all eventually connect to that cell when they eventually enter connected mode. This can lead to an overload situation. Thus, the network can use dedicated priorities to ensure that some WDs camp on a first frequency, while other WDs camp on another frequency.

[0007] Some features can only be supported by certain cells (e.g. network nodes) in the network. 3GPP studies have concluded that certain network slices are only supported on certain frequencies, or at least that an operator can prefer traffic associated with certain slices on certain frequencies. For example, assume that an operator in a certain area wants to provide connectivity to a certain slice S1 only on frequency F1, while services on another slice S2 can be provided on any frequency or on frequency F2. This can not be uniform throughout the network, so in one area it can be as described, while in another area (e.g. indoor) the operator can have different preferences and can want to prefer to use another frequency (e.g. F3) to serve slice S2. Currently, there is no simple way to signal to a WD that dedicated priorities can change throughout the core network (CN) registration area. There is also no way to signal to a WD that different slices can be associated with different frequency priorities. For example, if a WD is registered to two different slices, and these two different slices cause the operator to prefer to serve the two different slices on different frequencies, there is currently no way to signal this to the WD. SUMMARY

[0008] There is a need for a solution that can provide information to a WD to enable idle or inactive mode mobility (cell selection and reselection) in a way that the WD follows the frequency priorities that are valid for certain specific cells, areas and slices.

[0009] Some embodiments advantageously provide methods, network nodes and wireless devices for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection.

[0010] A method in a WD for receiving and maintaining idle / inactive mode mobility parameters is provided, wherein the WD can:

[0011] • receive at least one set of broadcast parameters (e.g. priorities) for idle / inactive mode mobility;

[0012] • receive an indication from the network which set of parameters the WD is to apply depending on which slice the WD is registered to or has priority access to;

[0013] • determine which set of parameters to apply according to the indication based on the registered slice; and / or

[0014] • apply one set of parameters for a certain slice and another set of parameters for another slice.

[0015] A method in a network node for maintaining idle / inactive mode mobility parameters is provided, wherein the network can:

[0016] • broadcast multiple sets of parameters for idle / inactive mode mobility parameters, wherein the broadcasted sets are associated with different classes of WDs or slices;

[0017] • determine which broadcasted set of parameters the WD is to apply; and / or

[0018] • send an indication to the WD of which set of parameters the WD is to apply by assigning the WD to a particular class or directly signaling that access to a particular slice should be associated with a particular set of parameters.

[0019] A particular set of parameters is typically a frequency priority associated with a particular class of WDs or a particular slice.

[0020] According to one aspect, there is provided a network node configured to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices, WDs. The network node includes processing circuitry configured to select an index indicating a set of parameters of a plurality of sets of parameters, the set of parameters comprising at least one priority, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and a service, the index being usable to configure at least one WD of a first group of WDs to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the selected index. The network node includes a radio interface in communication with the processing circuitry, the radio interface configured to transmit the selected index to the at least one WD of the first group of WDs.

[0021] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the radio interface is further configured to broadcast the plurality of sets of parameters to a plurality of wireless devices. In some embodiments, the radio interface is configured to unicast the plurality of sets of parameters to a particular one of the at least one of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of sets of parameters corresponds to another one of the registered slices or services. In some embodiments, one of the plurality of sets of parameters is a default set of parameters. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to select a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different one of the plurality of sets of parameters; and the radio interface is further configured to transmit the selected plurality of indices to the at least one of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, a priority in a set of parameters directs the at least one of the first group of WDs to prioritize one slice or service over another slice or service. In some embodiments, the selection is further based on a capability of the at least one of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, the selection is further based on a mobility state of a particular one of the at least one of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to select a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different one of the plurality of sets of parameters; and the radio interface is further configured to transmit each selected one of the plurality of indices to a different group of WDs.

[0022] According to another aspect, there is provided a method in a network node configured to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices, WDs. The method comprises selecting an index indicating a set of parameters of a plurality of sets of parameters, a set of parameters comprising at least one priority, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and service, the index being usable to configure at least one of a first group of WDs to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the selected index; and transmitting the selected index to the at least one of the first group of WDs.

[0023] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further comprises broadcasting the plurality of sets of parameters to a plurality of wireless devices. In some embodiments, the method comprises unicasting the plurality of sets of parameters to a particular WD of the at least one WD of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, each set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters corresponds to another of the registered slices or services. In some embodiments, one set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters is a default set of parameters. In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters; and sending the selected plurality of indices to the at least one WD of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, a priority in a set of parameters directs the at least one WD of the first group of WDs to prioritize one slice or service over another slice or service. In some embodiments, the selection is further based on a capability of the at least one WD of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, the selection is further based on a mobility state of a particular WD of the at least one WD of the first group of WDs. In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters; and sending each selected index of the plurality of indices to a different group of WDs.

[0024] According to yet another aspect, a WD is configured to communicate with a network node. The WD comprises processing circuitry configured to: obtain an indication of a set of parameters of a plurality of sets of parameters, a set of parameters comprising at least one index and at least one frequency priority; and select a frequency priority from the set of parameters indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a prioritized slice.

[0025] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the indication is obtained from the network node. In some embodiments, when the indication is not obtained from the network node, the indication is one of a default indication or a random indication from a memory of the WD. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to register the WD to a corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to access a cell according to the selected frequency priority when reinitiating a communication associated with the corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to obtain a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set of the plurality of parameter sets; and select a parameter set among the parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices, the selection being based at least in part on a comparison of frequency priorities of the different parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to discard, ignore, or consider as invalid the obtained indication when at least one of: the WD lacks a capability for the priority slice; a timer expires; the indicated parameter set is not available at the WD; the WD changes to an idle state; the WD changes a mobility state; and the WD deregisters from the priority slice. In some embodiments, the WD further comprises a radio interface configured to receive the obtained indication from the network node on a broadcast channel. In some embodiments, the WD further comprises a radio interface configured to receive the plurality of parameter sets from the network node. In some embodiments, the obtained indication is received from the network node in an RRCRelease message that can be used to move the WD from one state to another state.

[0026] According to another embodiment, a method in a wireless device comprises: obtaining an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, a parameter set comprising at least one index and at least one frequency priority; and selecting a frequency priority from the parameter set indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a priority slice.

[0027] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the indication is obtained from the network node. In some embodiments, when the indication is not obtained from the network node, the indication is one of a default indication or a random indication obtained from a memory of the WD. In some embodiments, the method further comprises registering the WD to a corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the method further comprises accessing a cell according to the selected frequency priority when reinitiating a communication associated with the corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the method further comprises obtaining a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set of the plurality of parameter sets, and selecting a parameter set among the parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices, the selection being based at least in part on a comparison of frequency priorities of the different parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices. According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further comprises discarding, ignoring, or considering as invalid the obtained indication when at least one of: the WD lacks a capability for the priority slice; a timer expires; the indicated parameter set is not available at the WD; the WD changes to an idle state; the WD changes a mobility state; and the WD deregisters from the priority slice. In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving the obtained indication from the network node on a broadcast channel. In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving the plurality of parameter sets from the network node. In some embodiments, the obtained indication is received from the network node in an RRCRelease message that can be used to move the WD from one state to another state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0028] The present embodiments and the advantages thereof will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary network architecture of a communication system connected via an intermediate network to a host computer according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a host computer communicating via a network node with a wireless device over a partially wireless connection according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for executing a client application at a wireless device in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node and a wireless device for receiving user data at the wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node and a wireless device for receiving user data at the host computer from the wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node and a wireless device for receiving user data at the host computer from the wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection in a network node;

[0036] Figure 8 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection in a network node;

[0037] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection in a network node;

[0038] Figure 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection in a network node;

[0039] Figure 11 is an example architecture of a wireless communication system configured to communicate parameter sets;

[0040] Figure 12 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure in a WD according to the principles set forth herein; and

[0041] Figure 13 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure in a network node according to the principles set forth herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Before describing the example embodiments in detail, it should be noted that the embodiments primarily reside in the combination of apparatus components and process steps related to network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection. Accordingly, components are represented by conventional symbols in the drawings, and specific

[0043] As used herein, relational terms such as“first” and“second,”“top” and “bottom,” and the like can be used solely to distinguish one entity or element from another entity or element without necessarily requiring or implying any physical or logical relationship or order between such entities or elements. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the concepts described herein. As used herein, the singular forms“a,”“an” and“the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms“comprises,”“comprising,”“includes” and / or“including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0044] In embodiments described herein, the joining term“in communication with” and the like can be used to indicate electrical or data communication, which can be accomplished by, for example, physical contact, induction, electromagnetic radiation, radio signaling, infrared signaling or optical signaling. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that numerous modifications to the embodiments described herein can be made and implemented, and that the modifications and changes can be implemented to achieve electrical and data communication.

[0045] In some embodiments described herein, the terms“coupled,”“connected,” and the like, can be used herein to indicate a connection, although not necessarily directly, and can include wired and / or wireless

[0046] The term“network node” used herein can be any kind of network node included in a radio network, which can further include a base station (BS), a radio base station, a base transceiver station (BTS), a base station controller (BSC), a radio network controller (RNC), a g-NodeB (gNB), an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB), a Node B, a multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node such as a MSR BS, a multi-cell / multicast coordination entity (MCE), an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, a relay node, a donor node controlling relays, a radio Access Point (AP), a transmission point, a transmission node, a remote radio unit (RRU) a remote radio head (RRH), a core network node (e.g., a mobility management entity (MME), a self-organizing network (SON) node, a coordinating node, a positioning node, an MDT node, etc.), an external node (e.g., a third party node, a node outside of the current network), a node in a distributed antenna system (DAS), a spectrum access system (SAS) node, an element management system (EMS), etc. A network node can also include a test equipment. The term“radio node” used herein can also be used to denote a wireless device (WD) such as a wireless device (WD) or a radio network node.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-limiting terms wireless device (WD) or user equipment (UE) are used interchangeably. A WD here can be any type of wireless device capable of communicating with a network node or another WD over radio signals, such as a wireless device (WD). The WD can also be a radio communication device, target device, device to device (D2D) WD, machine type WD or WD capable of machine to machine communication (M2M), low-cost and / or low-complexity WD, sensor equipped WD, tablet, mobile terminal, smart phone, laptop embedded equipped (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongle, Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), Internet of Things (IoT) device, or Narrow

[0048] Also in some embodiments, the generic term "radio network node" is used. It can be any kind of radio network node which can comprise a base station, radio base station, base transceiver station, base station controller, network controller, RNC, evolved Node B (eNB), Node B, gNB, multi-cell / multicast coordination entity (MCE), IAB node, relay node, access point, radio access point, remote radio unit (RRU), remote radio head (RRH), any of them.

[0049] It is noted that although terminology from the one certain wireless system, such as the 3GPP LTE and / or New Radio (NR), can be used in this disclosure, this does not limit the scope of the disclosure only to the mentioned system. Other wireless systems, including but not limited to Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMax), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB) and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), can also benefit from exploiting ideas covered within this disclosure.

[0050] It is also noted that functions described herein as being performed by a wireless device or a network node can be distributed in a number of wireless devices and / or network nodes. In other words, it is envisaged that the functions of the network nodes and wireless devices described herein need not be performed by a single physical device, but can be distributed amongst several physical devices.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0052] As used herein, the terms “legacy signaling,” “legacy field,” and similar terms refer to signaling and fields defined in existing versions of the specifications. For example, if a field is defined in Release 16 of the New Radio / Long Term Evolution (NR / LTE) specifications, a field defined in 3GPP Release 15 (Rel-15) of these specifications would be considered a legacy field, and signaling using this field would be considered legacy signaling.

[0053] Embodiments provide for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection. According to one aspect, the network broadcasts multiple sets of parameters for use by a WD when performing mobility between cells when the WD is in idle mode and / or inactive mode. In current NR / LTE specifications, the network sends a single set of such parameters as described above. These parameters include priorities. The WDs in idle mode or inactive mode apply these priorities to determine which cell and / or frequency the WD will camp on. However, in the embodiments described below, the network node will provide multiple sets of parameters and indications for use by the WD to select and apply a particular set of parameters from among the sets of parameters according to certain conditions, as described below.

[0054] This solution enables a specific group of WDs to be associated with an “identity” (e.g. class or slice association), and by virtue of this classification or association, enables the different frequency priority indications being used by the WDs to be controlled for different slices in different parts of the network. Thus, different groups of WDs can be configured to apply different parameters for idle / inactive mode mobility. In other words, different parameters can be applied to different groups of WDs based on different criteria determined by the network. In particular, a WD can not necessarily belong to a specific class or specific type, but it can be temporarily registered to a specific slice, and from this registration, the WD can associate a different set of parameters with the specific slice and the idle mode mobility procedure of the WD.

[0055] Reference is now made to the drawings, in which like elements are referred to by like reference numerals, in Figure 1A schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an embodiment is shown in Figure 1, which can be an example of a 3GPP-type cellular network that can support standards such as LTE and / or NR (5G), and which comprises access networks 12, such as radio access networks, and a core network 14. The core network nodes 14 can have an operation, administration, and maintenance (OAM) node 15. The access networks 12 comprise a plurality of network nodes 16a, 16b, 16c (collectively referred to as network nodes 16), such as NBs, eNBs, gNBs or other types of wireless access points, each defining a corresponding coverage area 18a, 18b, 18c (collectively referred to as coverage areas 18). Each network node 16a, 16b, 16c can be connected to the core network 14 via wired or wireless connection 20. A first wireless device (WD) 22a located in coverage area 18a is configured to wirelessly connect to, or be paged by, the corresponding network node 16a. A second WD 22b in coverage area 18b is configured to wirelessly connect to, or be paged by, the corresponding network node 16b. Although a plurality of WDs 22a, 22b (collectively referred to as wireless devices 22) are illustrated in this example, the

[0056] Furthermore, it is contemplated that a WD 22 can be in simultaneous communication and / or configured to simultaneously communicate with multiple network nodes 16 and with network nodes 16 of multiple types. For example, a WD 22 can have dual connectivity with an LTE capable network node 16 and a same or different network node 16 that is capable of NR. As another example, a WD 22 can be in communication with both an eNB for LTE / E-UTRAN and a gNB for NR / NG-RAN.

[0057] The communication system 10 can itself be connected to a host computer 24, which can be embodied in hardware and / or software and can be embodied as a standalone server, a cloud implementation, or a distributed system comprising multiple servers, to name a few. The host computer 24 can be under the ownership or control of a service provider, or can be operated by the service provider or on behalf of the service provider. The connections 26, 28 between the communication system 10 and the host computer 24 can extend directly from the core network 14 to the host computer 24 or can go via an optional intermediate network 30. The intermediate network 30 can be one of, or a combination of more than one of, public, private or hosted networks, for example, and can include one or more backbones. The intermediate network 30, if any, can be a backbone network or the Internet. In some embodiments, the intermediate network 30 can comprise two or more sub-networks (not shown).

[0058] Overall, Figure 1 The communication system of Fig. 1 as a whole enables connectivity between one of the connected WDs 22a, 22b on one side, and the host computer 24 on the other. The connectivity can be described as an over-the-top (OTT) connection. The host computer 24 and the connected WDs 22a, 22b are configured to communicate using the OTT connection via the core network 14, the access network 12, and any intermediate network 30 using the IP protocol suite, such as TCP / IP. The OTT connection can be transparent

[0059] The network node 16 can be configured to include an index mapper 32 configured to map an index to a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters of the set including at least one priority used to configure the WD to select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service. The network node 16 can be configured to select the index indicating the parameter set including the at least one priority, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and service. The wireless device 22 can be configured to include a selector 34 configured to select a cell reselection parameter set associated with a network slice or service based on a registered slice. The WD 22 can be configured to select a frequency priority from the parameter set indicated by an obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a prioritized slice.

[0060] Reference will now be made to Figure 2Example implementations, in accordance with an embodiment, of the WD 22, network node 16 and host computer 24 discussed in the preceding paragraphs are described. In a communication system 10, a host computer 24 comprises hardware (HW) 38 including communication interface 40 configured to set up and maintain a connection with a different communication device of the communication system 10. The host computer 24 further comprises processing circuitry 42, which can have storage and / or processing capabilities. The processing circuitry 42 can comprise a processor 44 and memory 46. In particular, in addition to or instead of a processor

[0061] The processing circuitry 42 can be configured to control any of the methods and / or processes described herein and / or to cause such methods, and / or processes to be performed, e.g., by the host computer 24. The processor 44 corresponds to one or more processors 44 for performing host computer 24 functions described herein. The host computer 24 includes memory 46 that is configured to store data, programmatic software code and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, the software 48, and / or the host application 50, can include instructions that, when executed by the processor 44 and / or processing circuitry 42, enable the processor 44 and / or processing circuitry 42 to perform the processes described herein with respect to the host computer 24. The instructions can be software associated with the host computer 24.

[0062] The software 48 can be executable by the processing circuitry 42. The software 48 includes a host application 50. The host application 50 can be operable to provide a service to a remote user, such as a WD 22 connecting via an OTT connection 52 terminating at the WD 22 and the host computer 24. In providing the service to the remote user, the host application 50 can provide user data which is transmitted using the OTT connection 52. The "user data" can be data and information described herein as implementing the described functionality. In one embodiment, the host computer 24 can be configured for providing control and functionality to a service provider and can be operated by the service provider or a representative of the service provider. The processing circuitry 42 of the host computer 24 can enable the host computer 24 to observe, monitor, control, transmit to and / or receive from the network node 16 and / or the wireless device 22.

[0063] The communication system 10 further includes a network node 16 provided in a communication system 10 and comprising hardware 58 enabling the network node 16 to communicate with the host computer 24 and with the WD 22. The hardware 58 can include a communication interface 60 for setting up and maintaining a wired or wireless connection with an interface of a different communication device of the communication system 10 as well as a radio interface 62 for setting up and maintaining at least a wireless connection 64 with a WD 22 located in a coverage area 18 served by the network node 16. The radio interface 62 can be formed as or can include, for example, one or more RF transmitters, one or more RF receivers, and / or one or more RF transceivers. The communication interface 60 can be configured to facilitate a connection 66 to the host computer 24. The connection 66 can be direct or it can pass through the core network 14 and / or one or more intermediate networks 30 outside the communication system 10.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the hardware 58 of the network node 16 further includes processing circuitry 68. The processing circuitry 68 can include a processor 70 and memory 72. In particular, in addition to or instead of a processor such as a central processing unit(s) and memory, the processing circuitry 68 can comprise integrated circuitry

[0065] Thus, the network node 16 further has software 74 stored internally in, for example, memory 72, or stored in external memory (e.g., databases, storage arrays, network storage devices, etc.) accessible by the network node 16 via an external connection. The software 74 can be executable by the processing circuitry 68. The processing circuitry 68 can be configured to control any of the methods and / or processes described herein and / or to cause such methods, and / or processes to be performed, e.g., by the network node 16. The processor 70 corresponds to one or more processors 70 for performing network node 16 functions described herein. The memory 72 is configured to store data, programmatic software code and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, the software 74 can include instructions executable by the processor 70 and / or processing circuitry 68, that, when executed, cause the processor 70 and / or processing circuitry 68 to carry out the processes described herein with respect to the network node 16. For example, the processing circuitry 68 of the network node 16 can include an index mapper 32 configured to map an index to a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters of the set including at least one priority used to configure the WD to select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service. The processing circuitry can be configured to select the index indicating the parameter set including the at least one priority, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and a service.

[0066] The communication system 10 further includes the already referred WD 22. The WD 22 can have hardware 80, which can include a radio interface 82 configured to set up and maintain a wireless connection 64 with a network node 16 of a coverage area 18 within which the WD 22 is currently located. The radio interface 82 can be formed as or can include, for example, one or more RF transmitters, one or more RF receivers, and / or one or more RF transceivers.

[0067] The hardware 80 of the WD 22 further includes processing circuitry 84. The processing circuitry 84 can include a processor 86 and memory 88. In particular, in addition to or instead of a processor, such as a central processing unit, and memory, the processing circuitry 84 can comprise integrated circuitry, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores, and / or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or application- specific integrated circuits (ASICs), adapted to perform one or more of the methods described herein. The processor 86 can be configured to access (e.g., store and / or

[0068] Thus, WD 22 can also include software 90, which is stored in, for example, memory 88 at WD 22 or in external memory accessible by WD 22 (e.g., a database, a storage array, a network storage device, etc.). Software 90 can be executable by processing circuitry 84. Software 90 can include a client application 92. Client application 92 can be operable to provide a service to a human or non-human user via WD 22 with the support of host computer 24. In host computer 24, an executing host application 50 can communicate with the executing client application 92 via OTT connection 52 terminating at WD 22 and host computer 24. In providing the service to the user, client application 92 can receive request data from host application 50 and provide user data in response to the request data. OTT connection 52 can transfer both the request data and the user data. Client application 92 can interact with the user to generate the user data that it provides.

[0069] Processing circuitry 84 can be configured to control any of the methods and / or processes described herein and / or to cause such methods, and / or processes to be performed, e.g., by WD 22. Processor 86 corresponds to one or more processors 86 for performing WD 22 functions described herein. WD 22 includes memory 88 that is configured to store data, programmatic software code and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 90 and / or the client application 92 can include instructions that, when executed by processor 86 and / or processing circuitry 84, enable processor 86 and / or processing circuitry 84 to perform processes described herein with respect to WD 22. For example, the processing circuitry 84 of wireless device 22 can include a selector 34 configured to select one of a network slice, a frequency and a service based at least in part on a priority included in a parameter set. The processing circuitry 84 can be configured to select a frequency priority from a parameter set indicated by an obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a prioritized slice.

[0070] In some embodiments, the inner workings of network node 16, WD 22, and host computer 24 can be as shown in FIG. 10 and independently, the surrounding network topology can be that of FIG. 9. Figure 2 Figure 1 In some embodiments, the inner workings of network node 16, WD 22, and host computer 24 can be as shown in FIG. 10 and independently, the surrounding network topology can be that of FIG. 9.

[0071] In some embodiments, the inner workings of network node 16, WD 22, and host computer 24 can be as shown in FIG. 10 and independently, the surrounding network topology can be that of FIG. 9. Figure 2 ​In the example of Figure 1, the OTT connection 52 has been drawn as a dashed line to indicate that it is an OTT connection and not a direct connection between the host computer 24 and the wireless device 22. Also, in the example of Figure 1, the OTT connection 52 has been drawn with dashed lines to indicate its non-stable nature. It should be noted that these connections can change during use of the wireless device 22. For example, the connections can change as the wireless device 22 moves between different network nodes 16. Also, the connections can change as the host computer 24 moves between different servers 28. Further, the connections can change as the host computer 24 and the wireless device 22 move between different networks 26, 30. The connections can change due to any other suitable factors.

[0072] The wireless connection 64 between the WD 22 and the network node 16 is in accordance with the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure. One or more of the various embodiments improve the performance of OTT services provided to the WD 22 using the OTT connection 52, in which the wireless connection 64 forms the last segment. More specifically, the teachings of some of these embodiments can improve the data rate, latency, and / or power consumption, thereby providing benefits such as reduced user waiting time, relaxed restrictions on file size, better responsiveness, extended battery lifetime, and so on.

[0073] In some embodiments, a measurement procedure can be implemented for the purpose of monitoring the data rate, latency, and other factors on which one or more of the embodiments improve. There can further be an optional network functionality for reconfiguring the OTT connection 52 between the host computer 24 and the WD 22, in response to a change in the measurement results. The measurement procedure and / or the network functionality for reconfiguring the OTT connection 52 can be implemented in the software 48 of the host computer 24 or in the software 90 of the WD 22, or both. In embodiments, sensors (not shown) can be deployed in or in association with the communication devices through which the OTT connection 52 passes; the sensors can participate in the measurement procedure by providing values of the monitored quantities exemplified above, or providing values of other physical quantities from which software 48, 90 can compute or estimate the monitored quantities. The reconfiguring of the OTT connection 52 can include message format, retransmission settings, preferred routing, etc. The reconfiguring need not affect the network nodes 16, and it can be unknown or imperceptible to the network nodes 16. Such procedures and functionalities can be known and practiced in the art. In certain embodiments, the measurement can involve proprietary WD signaling facilitating the host computer’s 24 measurements of throughput, propagation times, latency, and the like. In some embodiments, the measurements can be implemented due to the software 48, 90 causing messages to be transmitted using the OTT connection 52, particularly empty or “dummy” messages.

[0074] Thus, in some embodiments, the host computer 24 includes processing circuitry 42 configured to provide user data and a communication interface 40 configured to forward the user data to a cellular network for transmission to the WD 22. In some embodiments, the cellular network further includes the network node 16 with a radio interface 62. In some embodiments, the network node 16 is configured to, and / or the network node’s 16 processing circuitry 68 is configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / ending transmissions to the WD 22, and / or for preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / ending reception of transmissions from the WD 22.

[0075] In some embodiments, the host computer 24 includes processing circuitry 42 and a communication interface 40 configured to receive user data that originated from a transmission from the WD 22 to the network node 16. In some embodiments, the WD 22 is configured to, and / or the WD’s 22 processing circuitry 84 is configured to, perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / ending transmissions to the network node 16, and / or for preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / ending reception of transmissions from the network node 16, and / or the WD 22 includes a radio interface 82 and / or processing circuitry 84 configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / ending transmissions to the network node 16, and / or for preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / ending reception of transmissions from the network node 16.

[0076] Although Figure 1 And 2 Various “units” such as the index mapper 32 and the selector 34 are shown within respective processors, but it is contemplated that these units can be implemented such that a portion of the unit is stored in a corresponding memory within the processing circuitry. In other words, these units can be implemented in hardware within the processing circuitry or a combination of hardware and software.

[0077] Figure 3 is a flowchart of an exemplary method implemented in a communication system (e.g., a wireless Figure 1 And Figure 2 communication system) in accordance with one embodiment. The communication system can include a host computer 24, a network node 16 and a WD 22, which can be those described with reference to Figure 2The host computer 24, the network node 16 and the WD 22 are described in more detail below. In a first step of the method, the host computer 24 provides user data (Block S100). In an optional substep of the first step, the host computer 24 provides the user data by executing a host application, such as the host application 50 (Block S102). In a second step, the host computer 24 initiates a transmission of the user data to the WD 22 (Block S104). In an optional third step, the network node 16 transmits to the WD 22 the user data which was carried in the transmission that the host computer 24 initiated, according to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure (Block S106). In an optional fourth step, the WD 22 executes a client application associated with the host application 50 executed by the host computer 24, such as the client application 92 (Block S108).

[0078] Figure 4 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method implemented in a communication system (for example, a communication system of Figure 1 ). The communication system can include a host computer 24, a network node 16 and a WD 22 which can be those described Figure 1 and Figure 2 with reference to The host computer 24, the network node 16 and the WD 22. In a first step of the method, the host computer 24 provides user data (Block S110). In an optional substep (not shown), the host computer 24 provides the user data by executing a host application, such as the host application 50. In a second step, the host computer 24 initiates a transmission of the user data to the WD 22 (Block S112). The transmission can pass via the network node 16, according to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure. In an optional third step, the WD 22 receives the user data carried in the transmission (Block S114).

[0079] Figure 5 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method implemented in a communication system (for example, a communication system of Figure 1 ). The communication system can include a host computer 24, a network node 16 and a WD 22 which can be those described Figure 1 and Figure 2The host computer 24, network node 16, and WD 22 are described in relation to Figs. 1-2. In an optional first step of the method, the WD 22 receives input data provided by the host computer 24 (block S116). In an optional substep of the first step, the WD 22 executes the client application 92 which provides user data in response to the received input data provided by the host computer 24 (block S118). Additionally or alternatively, in an optional second step, the WD 22 provides user data (block S120). In an optional substep of the second step, the WD provides the user data by executing a client application, such as the client application 92 (block S122). In providing the user data, the executed client application 92 can further consider user input received from the user. Regardless of the specific manner in which the user data was provided, the WD 22 can initiate transmission of the user data to the host computer 24 in an optional third substep (block S124). In a fourth step of the method, the host computer 24 receives the user data transmitted from the WD 22, in accordance with the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure (block S126).

[0080] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method implemented in a communication system (for example Figure 1 as described in relation to Fig. 1-2. The communication system can include a host computer 24, a network node 16 and a WD 22 which can be those described Figure 1 and Figure 2 The host computer 24, network node 16, and WD 22 are described in relation to Figs. 1-2. In an optional first step of the method, the WD 22 receives input data provided by the host computer 24 (block S116). In an optional substep of the first step, the WD 22 executes the client application 92 which provides user data in response to the received input data provided by the host computer 24 (block S118). Additionally or alternatively, in an optional second step, the WD 22 provides user data (block S120). In an optional substep of the second step, the WD provides the user data by executing a client application, such as the client application 92 (block S122). In providing the user data, the executed client application 92 can further consider user input received from the user. Regardless of the specific manner in which the user data was provided, the WD 22 can initiate transmission of the user data to the host computer 24 in an optional third substep (block S124). In a fourth step of the method, the host computer 24 receives the user data transmitted from the WD 22, in accordance with the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure (block S126).

[0081] Figure 7 is a flow chart of an exemplary process in a network node 16 for network-directed wireless device (WD) cell reselection. One or more blocks of the process described herein can be performed by one or more elements of the network node 16, e.g., by one or more of the processing circuitry 68 (including the index mapper 32), the processor 70, the radio interface 62, and / or the communications interface 60. The network node 16 is configured to, e.g., via the processing circuitry 68 and / or the processor 70 and / or the radio interface 62 and / or the communications interface 60, transmit an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets to a WD, the parameters of the set including at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index (block S134).

[0082] Figure 8 is a flowchart of an exemplary process in a wireless device 22 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more elements of wireless device 22, for example by one or more of processing circuitry 84 (including selector 34), processor 86, radio interface 82, and / or communication interface 60. Wireless device 22 is configured, e.g., via processing circuitry 84 and / or processor 86 and / or radio interface 82, to obtain an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set including at least one priority, an index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index (block S136). The process further includes selecting one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service based at least in part on a threshold value included in the parameter set (block S138).

[0083] Figure 9 is a flowchart of another example process for network-directed WD cell reselection. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more elements of network node 16, for example by one or more of processing circuitry 68 (including index mapper 32), processor 70, radio interface 62, and / or communication interface 60. Network node 16 is configured, e.g., via processing circuitry 68 and / or processor 70 and / or radio interface 62 and / or communication interface 60, to select an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set including at least one priority, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and a service, the index being usable to configure at least one WD in a first group of WDs to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the selected index (block S140). The process further includes transmitting the selected index to the at least one WD in the first group of WDs (block S142).

[0084] Figure 10 is a flowchart of another example process for network-directed WD cell reselection. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more elements of wireless device 22, for example by one or more of processing circuitry 84 (including selector 34), processor 86, radio interface 82, and / or communication interface 60. Wireless device 22 is configured, e.g., via processing circuitry 84 and / or processor 86 and / or radio interface 82, to obtain an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set including at least one index and at least one frequency priority (block S144). The process further includes selecting a frequency priority from the parameter set indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a prioritized slice (block S146).

[0085] Having described the overall process flow of the arrangements of the present disclosure and having provided examples of hardware and software arrangements for implementing the processes and functions of the present disclosure, the following sections provide details and examples of arrangements for network bootstrapped wireless device (WD) cell reselection.

[0086] As noted above, the network node 16 can configure the WD 22 with multiple sets of parameters, and can then indicate the particular set to be applied by the WD 22. Different sets of parameters can be identified by a particular identifier (in the example ASN.1 implementation, this is provided as WD Category Index). For example, an index, which can be an integer value, can be signaled by the network node 16 to the WD 22. Different sets of parameters can be identified by a new field or an existing field.

[0087] If the signaling supports multiple additional (i.e., in addition to the legacy / known parameters) sets of parameters, the additional sets of parameters can be provided in a list. In this case, an explicit identifier can not be assigned to the sets in the list. Rather, the sets can be implicitly indicated based on their position of appearance in the list. For example, the first set in the list can be associated with index 1 (or 2), the second set with index 2 (or 3), and so on. For example, the parameters in the existing field can be associated with index 0 (or 1).

[0088] One set of parameters can be considered the default set of parameters. The default parameters can be those parameters sent in the existing signaling.

[0089] Below is an example showing how multiple sets can be implemented in 3GPP Technical Standard (TS) 38.331 v15.6.0. Changes to the existing code are shown in underlined bold text. Some irrelevant parts of the existing code are omitted. A similar set of changes can be applicable to System Information Block 4 (SIB4), inter-frequency reselection parameters, and SIB5, and inter-radio access technology (RAT) reselection parameters.

[0090] With explicit indication W Examples of DCategoryType

[0091] -SIB2

[0092] SIB2 contains cell reselection information that is common for intra-frequency, inter-frequency, and / or inter-RAT cell reselection (i.e., applicable to more than one type of cell reselection, but not necessarily to all types), as well as intra-frequency cell reselection information in addition to the neighboring cell related information.

[0093] SIB2 information element

[0094]

[0095]

[0096]

[0097]

[0098] Example ends

[0099] As an extension of the above, in one embodiment, the network does not broadcast the WD Category Index, but instead associates a CellReselectionPriority indication with different slices or services. Thus, instead of considering the type of WD 22 and WD 22 capabilities, the frequency priority that is valid for WD 22 at a particular point in time is controlled by which slice WD 22 is registered to, or alternatively by which service WD 22 wishes to utilize.

[0100] Examples of such a broadcast are provided below:

[0101] SIB2 information element

[0102]

[0103]

[0104]

[0105]

[0106]

[0107] Another alternative for the addition is not to add an index to a slice, but instead to add to a service:

[0108] Thus, using the above encoding, it is possible to broadcast different frequency priorities according to different services or different slices. Then, WD 22 is able to select a single frequency priority that is applicable for a particular service, independent of the WD 22 category.

[0109] In some cases, the network can broadcast the WD 22 class priority, WD 22 slice priority, and WD 22 service priority, e.g., via network node 16. In this case, the WD 22 can determine whether the cellReselectionPriorities are different and, if so, which priority to follow. According to one aspect, the frequencyPriorities related to the wireless device class or wireless device type have the highest priority. The priorities related to the slice can have the next highest priority, and the priorities related to the service can have the next next highest priority. In other example embodiments, the service is prioritized.

[0110] WD determines which parameter set to apply

[0111] In some embodiments, the network node 16 configures the WD 22 to use a particular set of multiple cell (re)selection parameter sets for the WD 22 to consider. This can be done by sending a parameter set indication from the network node 16 to the WD 22.

[0112] The parameter set indication can be indicated using dedicated signaling from the network to the WD 22. For example, a parameter set indication signaled in a message used to move the WD 22 from connected mode to idle / inactive mode, such as an RRCRelease message, can be used to send the parameter set indication.

[0113] Below is an example showing how such an indication can be implemented in 3GPP TS 38.331 v15.6.0. Changes are shown in underlined bold text. For this example, irrelevant parts of the existing code are omitted.

[0114] Beginning of example

[0115] - RRCRelease

[0116] The RRCRelease message is used to command the release of an RRC connection or the suspension of an RRC connection.

[0117] Signaling radio bearers: SRB1

[0118] RLC-SAP: AM

[0119] Logical channels: DCCH

[0120] Direction: network to WD

[0121] RRCRelease message

[0122]

[0123]

[0124] End of example

[0125] In some embodiments, cellReselectionParameterSetIndex can also be extended to include an indication pointing to a specific slice or service, as in the example below. In this example, in the RRCRelease message, the network indicates the cellReselectionParameterSetIndex . The network can provide different cellReselectionParameterSetIndex as part of the cellReselectionSliceParameterSet list. The network can provide the same cellReselectionParameterSetIndex.

[0126] RRCRelease message

[0127]

[0128]

[0129] End of example

[0130] or alternatively

[0131]

[0132] According to the example above, a Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) node will have information about the registered slice from the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), which is conveyed for example in the Initial Context Setup Request message. In some embodiments, the AMF includes this information at the Initial Context Setup Request message, while in some other embodiments, the Radio Access Network (RAN) node can request this information from the core network as needed. In some other embodiments, the RAN node can receive this information from the Operation, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) function.

[0133] Format of indication

[0134] The indication can be an integer value and points to the index of the parameter. See above, where it is described how the network node 16 can indicate a specific parameter set by an index.

[0135] If the WD 22 does not receive any indication from the network, e.g. via the network node 16, about which parameter set the WD 22 is to apply, the WD 22 can apply a default parameter set. The default parameter set can be indicated as the first or any predetermined index, e.g. indicating a slice list, a service list or a WD 22 category / type list.

[0136] Multiple parameter set indication

[0137] The numerology indication can indicate or include multiple numerologies. The network can indicate to the WD 22, e.g., via the network node 16, whether the WD 22 is to apply, e.g., numerology 1 or numerology 3. The WD 22 can be configured to apply either of numerology 1 or numerology 3, and if these numerologies are found, the WD 22 can select one of them. In some embodiments, the WD 22 can make this selection based on which slice is prioritized in the idle or inactive mode selection. For example, the WD 22 can apply the idle / inactive mode frequency priority parameters related to the slice or service that is considered more time critical than another service or slice. For example, in the case that the WD 22 is registered to both an ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) slice and a mobile broadband (MBB) slice, the WD 22 can select the frequency priority related to the URLLC slice over the frequency priority related to the MBB slice. This selection can occur when the use of the URLLC slice is more time critical than the use of the MBB.

[0138] In some embodiments, the WD 22 can select to prioritize the MBB slice and follow the frequency priority of that slice, as the use frequency of MBB can be 100 times higher than the use frequency of URLLC. Further, the use of the URLLC slice can be associated with a controlled launch and not have time criticality in the initial steps. When the WD 22 has a choice, there can be various aspects of determining which slice, frequency, and / or service to prioritize.

[0139] In some embodiments, the numerology indication is associated with a priority. For example, numerology 3 can be given a higher priority than numerology 1. Then, if available, the WD 22 is to apply numerology 3, otherwise the WD 22 is to apply numerology 1. If the WD 22 does not find the indicated numerology, the WD 22 can go back to selecting an alternative numerology.

[0140] No indicated parameter set

[0141] If the WD 22 has received a numerology indication but does not detect the corresponding numerology, the WD 22 can apply a fallback numerology. The fallback numerology can be selected to be, for example:

[0142] • a default numerology, e.g., the numerology indicated in legacy signaling;

[0143] • a random numerology. If the WD 22 has been indicated to apply numerology 2 but the WD 22 only detects numerologies 1 and 3, the WD 22 can randomly select between set 1 and set 3; or

[0144] • A numerology indicated based on network signaling. If the WD 22 does not find the indicated numerology, the WD 22 can be provided an indication of which alternative numerology the WD 22 is to apply.

[0145] UE discards parameter set indication

[0146] In one embodiment, the WD 22 can discard the numerology indication at certain events, examples of which can include:

[0147] • WD capability change - the capability of the WD 22 can change. For example, the WD 22 can initially have the capability of feature X (e.g., evolved universal terrestrial radio access network new radio dual connectivity (EN-DC)), but for some reason, the WD 22 can no longer have the capability of feature X. The WD 22 can then update its capabilities so that feature X is no longer supported. This can trigger the WD 22 to discard the numerology indication.

[0148] • WD 22 moves out of a certain set of cells, tracking areas (TAs), and / or RAN-based notification areas (RNAs), etc. - if the WD 22 moves out of a certain set of cells, tracking areas, RAN areas, etc., the WD 22 can no longer retain and apply the indicated numerology: the WD 22 can therefore discard the numerology indication.

[0149] • Timer expiry - the WD 22 can discard the numerology after a timer expires. The timer can be started upon reception of the numerology indication, or upon transitioning from a first state to another state (e.g., from connected mode to idle mode). If the WD 22 performs such a transition again at a later point in time, the timer can be (re)started. For example, the WD 22 can receive an indication when moving from connected mode to idle mode, but at a later point in time, the WD 22 can reconnect to the network (e.g., enter connected mode again). The WD 22 can then move from connected to idle again, and the WD 22 can restart the timer.

[0150] • Indicated numerology not found - if the WD 22 has received a numerology indication X, but the numerology set X is not provided from the network (at least not in the cell in which the WD 22 camps), the WD 22 can discard the indication. This can be beneficial if the WD 22 has been configured to apply numerology set X, but the WD 22 moves to a cell that does not support the feature or does not apply numerology set X.

[0151] • WD 22 changes state - if the WD 22 moves to a particular state, the WD 22 can discard the indication. For example, when the WD 22 is moved to an inactive mode, the WD 22 can receive the indication. If the WD 22 moves to an idle mode for some reason, the WD 22 can discard the indication.

[0152] • WD 22 changes mobility state - the WD 22 can change from a slow mobility state to a high mobility state WD 22 (these states are based on speedStateReselectionPars provided in system information). Further, the WD 22 type specific reselection priority can only apply to a particular mobility state, e.g., a slow WD state. The speed state for which the WD 22 type specific reselection priority applies can be specific in the standard or explicitly indicated in system information (SI), e.g., in CellReselectionPriorities.

[0153] • WD 22 logs out from a particular slice. If the WD 22 has obtained a parameter set valid for a particular slice, and then the WD 22 logs out from that slice, the parameter set is no longer valid.

[0154] When the WD 22 is said to “discard” a parameter set indication, the WD 22 can actually discard the value (e.g., by deleting the value from memory), or the WD 22 can consider the value no longer valid or applicable.

[0155] Network selection - which parameters the WD 22 will apply by network selection

[0156] Based on the above methods, the network can control which parameter set a particular WD 22 applies, e.g., via network node 16, with consideration of one or more of the following:

[0157] • WD capability - the network can consider the capabilities of the WD 22 when determining which numerology set the WD 22 is to apply, e.g. via the network node 16. For example, WDs that support feature X (e.g. EN-DC) can be assigned to a first numerology set, while WDs that do not support feature X can be assigned to a second numerology set. The network can also consider on which frequency bands the WD 22 supports a particular feature, and on which frequencies the network has enabled the feature, e.g. via the network node 16. For example, a WD 22 that supports EN-DC can only support EN-DC between certain frequencies. The network can consider this when selecting which numerology set the WD 22 is to apply, e.g. via the network node 16. Thus, even though the WD 22 has EN-DC capability, the network can not instruct the WD 22 to apply a numerology that the network has designed to be suitable for WDs with EN-DC capability, e.g. via the network node 16, when the WD 22 does not support EN-DC for a certain (e.g. desired) frequency (combination).

[0158] • Version of the WD 22 - the WD indicates to the network which version of the specification they have implemented. The network can instruct WDs of a first version to apply a first numerology set, while WDs of a second version can be assigned to a second numerology set.

[0159] • Mobility state of the WD 22 - the network can consider the mobility state (slow, medium, high) of the WD when determining which numerology set the WD 22 is to apply, when the WD 22 is released to idle / inactive state. For example, high-speed WDs 22 can be configured with a priority to not necessarily implement faster dual connectivity associated with high frequencies, while low-speed WDs 22 are configured with a priority to implement faster EN-DC or NR-DC associated with high frequency primary secondary cells (PSCells).

[0160] Network selection of which parameters a WD registered to more than one slice will apply

[0161] When the WD 22 is registered to more than one slice, or when the WD 22 is registered to the network such that the selection of different services can become access dependent, the WD 22 can determine in which way it should prioritize slices, frequencies and / or services, according to one aspect. Based on the above methods, the network node 16 can control which numerology set a particular WD 22 is to apply. The network can select which numerology set a particular WD 22 is to apply, e.g. via the network node 16, with consideration of one or more of the following:

[0162] • WD capability - the network can consider the capabilities of the WD 22 when determining which numerology set the WD 22 will apply, e.g. via the network node 16. For example, WDs 22 that support feature X (e.g. EN-DC) can be assigned to a first numerology set, while WDs 22 that do not support feature X can be assigned to a second numerology set. The network node 16 can also consider on which frequency bands the WD 22 supports a particular feature, and on which frequencies the network has enabled the feature. For example, a WD 22 that supports EN-DC can only support EN-DC between certain frequencies. The network can consider this when selecting which numerology set the WD 22 will apply. Thus, even though the WD 22 has EN-DC capability, if the WD 22 does not support EN-DC for a particular frequency, the network can not instruct the WD 22 to apply a numerology that the network has designed to be suitable for WDs with EN-DC capability.

[0163] • WD 22 version - the WD 22 can indicate to the network which version of the specification they have implemented, e.g. via the network node 16. The network can instruct WDs 22 of a first version to apply a first numerology set, while WDs 22 of a second version can be assigned to a second numerology set.

[0164] • WD 22 mobility state - the network can consider the mobility state (slow, medium, high) of the WD 22 when determining which numerology set the WD 22 will apply, e.g. via the network node 16, when releasing the WD 22 to an idle / inactive state. For example, high-speed WDs 22 can be configured with a preference not to implement faster dual connectivity associated with high frequencies, while low-speed WDs 22 can be configured with a preference to implement faster EN-DC or NR-DC associated with high frequency PSCells.

[0165] Configuration of network node

[0166] In one embodiment, a central node of the network (e.g. an OAM network node) determines the indices used for different numerology sets. This can be seen as a central node that is coordinating the indices for use in different numerology sets. The result of this coordination is then indicated to other network nodes 16 (e.g. gNBs) in the network. The coordination can be such that all nodes in a particular area (e.g. a set of cells, a set of tracking areas, a set of RAN areas, etc.) use the same index for a particular numerology set. Alternatively or additionally, the coordination can be such that a particular index is used for a particular type of device.

[0167] From a slicing perspective, some embodiments give the possibility to provide frequency prioritization in areas where the operator has different preferences for the registration areas used for a particular slice.

[0168] In Figure 11In an example architecture, network node 16 (NN) gNB1 broadcasts one set of specific frequencies to be used for slice 1, while another cell broadcasts another set of frequencies to be used for slice 1. If WD 22 comes from an area where f3 is used for slice 1, then WD 22 will switch to fl in case it enters an area served by gNB1, and to f2 in case it enters an area served by network node 16 (NN) gNB2. This can be achieved by associating an index with the slice to which WD 22 is registered, and by broadcasting the frequency priorities that are valid in a specific area for that index. As mentioned above, the index can map to a slice or a service.

[0169] In one explicit example, the OAM network node determines that the numerology for EN-DC will have index 2 and indicates this to the network nodes (gNBs) so that all network nodes (gNBs) use the same index for their EN-DC parameters, if any. In some embodiments, the OAM network node can provide such indication only to network nodes that support a specific feature. For example, if there is a numerology for feature X, then the central node (e.g. OAM network node) can indicate to other network nodes (gNBs) that actually support feature X which index should be used for the numerology for feature X.

[0170] In some embodiments, the coordination between configuration and index is done in a distributed manner among network nodes 16 (e.g. gNBs). The source network node indicates to other network nodes in the tracking area how to use the index when releasing WD 22.

[0171] Figure 12 is a flowchart of an example procedure performed in WD 22 according to some embodiments. WD 22 is registered to two slices (block S210). WD 22 can receive two index values in a release message, one for slice 1 and one for slice 2. These index values can be associated with the broadcast system information (with the same index) and, from this, WD 22 is able to know and follow different frequency priorities in different cells where it can reselect (block S230). Because WD 22 cannot follow different priorities at the same time, there can be rules on how WD 22 should select one set. In Figure 12 In an example, in block S240, WD 22 prioritizes slice 1. In block S250, WD 22 reselects according to the frequency priorities for slice 1. In block S260, slice 1 triggers activity and WD 22 will select to access on the frequencies indicated by the frequency priorities for slice 1.

[0172] When the WD 22 is reselecting another cell, the WD 22 can simply read the information about the frequency priority sent from the cell by following the index indication provided by the network in block S220.

[0173] Figure 13 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure performed in a network node 16 (e.g. gNB) according to example embodiments. The network node 16 (e.g. gNB) broadcasts parameters according to which slices are supported in the cell. In this example, index 1 and index 2 are given (block S310). These two indices map to two different slices, i.e. slice 1 and slice 2. It can also be that index 1 maps to multiple different slices, while index 2 maps to other slices, or to only one slice. In some embodiments, the network node 16 receives information indicating which slices the WD 22 is registered to (block S320). This can enable the network node 16 to send information to the WD 22 about the frequency priority the WD 22 should follow for different slices. This information is communicated to the WD 22 in a release message (block S330).

[0174] Some aspects can be implemented in the radio resource control (RRC) protocol of NR. Thus, some parts can be implemented in the cloud, i.e. in one or more locations accessible via the Internet.

[0175] According to one aspect, there is provided a network node 16 configured to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices (WDs). The network node 16 comprises processing circuitry 68 configured to select an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set comprising at least one priority, the selection being based at least partly on one of a registered slice and a service, the index being usable to configure at least one WD 22 of a first group of WDs 22 to select a frequency priority based at least partly on the selected index. The network node 16 comprises a radio interface 62 in communication with the processing circuitry 68, the radio interface 62 being configured to transmit the selected index to the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22.

[0176] According to this aspect, in some embodiments the radio interface 62 is further configured to broadcast the plurality of sets of parameters to the plurality of wireless devices. In some embodiments the radio interface is configured to unicast the plurality of sets of parameters to a particular one of the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments each of the plurality of sets of parameters corresponds to a different one of the registered slices or services. In some embodiments one of the plurality of sets of parameters is a default set of parameters. In some embodiments the processing circuitry 68 is further configured to select a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different one of the plurality of sets of parameters; and the radio interface is further configured to transmit the selected plurality of indices to the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments the priority of the sets of parameters directs the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22 to prioritize one slice or service over another slice or service. In some embodiments the selection is further based on a capability of the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments the selection is further based on a mobility state of the particular one of the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments the processing circuitry 68 is further configured to select a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different one of the plurality of sets of parameters; and the radio interface is further configured to transmit each selected one of the plurality of indices to a different group of WDs 22.

[0177] According to another aspect, there is provided a method in a network node 16 configured to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices (WDs). The method comprises selecting, via the processing circuitry 68, an index indicating a set of parameters of a plurality of sets of parameters, the set of parameters comprising at least one priority, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and service, the index being usable to configure at least one WD 22 of a first group of WDs 22 to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the selected index; and transmitting, via the radio interface 62, the selected index to the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22.

[0178] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further comprises broadcasting the plurality of sets of parameters to the plurality of wireless devices via the radio interface 62. In some embodiments, the method comprises unicasting the plurality of sets of parameters to a particular WD of the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments, each set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters corresponds to another of the registered slices or services. In some embodiments, one set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters is a default set of parameters. In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting, via the processing circuitry 68, a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters; and sending, via the radio interface 62, the selected plurality of indices to the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments, the priority of the sets of parameters directs the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22 to prioritize one slice or service over another slice or service. In some embodiments, the selection is further based on a capability of the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments, the selection is further based on a mobility state of the particular WD of the at least one WD 22 of the first group of WDs 22. In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting, via the processing circuitry 68, a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different set of parameters of the plurality of sets of parameters; and sending, via the radio interface 62, each selected index of the plurality of indices to a different group of WDs 22.

[0179] According to yet another aspect, a WD 22 is configured to communicate with a network node 16. The WD 22 comprises processing circuitry 84 configured to: obtain an indication of a set of parameters of a plurality of sets of parameters, the set of parameters comprising at least one index and at least one frequency priority; and select the frequency priority from the set of parameters indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a prioritized slice.

[0180] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the indication is obtained from the network node 16. In some embodiments, when the indication is not obtained from the network node 16, the indication is one of a default indication or a random indication obtained from a memory of the WD 22. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 84 is further configured to register the WD 22 to the corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 84 is further configured to access the cell according to the selected frequency priority when reinitiating the communication associated with the corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 84 is further configured to: obtain a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets; and select a parameter set among the parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices, the selection being based at least in part on a comparison of the frequency priorities of the different parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 84 is further configured to discard, ignore, or consider as invalid the obtained indication when at least one of: the WD 22 lacks a capability for the priority slice; a timer expires; the indicated parameter set is not available at the WD 22; the WD 22 changes to an idle state; the WD 22 changes mobility state; and the WD 22 deregisters from the priority slice. In some embodiments, the WD 22 further comprises a radio interface 82 configured to receive the obtained indication from the network node 16 on a broadcast channel. In some embodiments, the WD 22 further comprises a radio interface 82 configured to receive the plurality of parameter sets from the network node 16. In some embodiments, the obtained indication is received from the network node 16 in an RRCRelease message that can be used to move the WD 22 from one state to another state.

[0181] According to another embodiment, a method in a wireless device 22 comprises: obtaining an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set comprising at least one index and at least one frequency priority; and selecting a frequency priority from the parameter set indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to a priority slice.

[0182] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the indication is obtained from the network node 16. In some embodiments, the indication is one of a default indication or a random indication obtained from a memory 88 of the WD 22 when the indication is not obtained from the network node. In some embodiments, the method further comprises registering the WD 22 to a corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the method further comprises accessing a cell according to the selected frequency priority when reinitiating a communication associated with the corresponding priority slice. In some embodiments, the method further comprises obtaining a plurality of indices, each of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, and selecting a parameter set among the parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices, the selection being based at least in part on a comparison of frequency priorities of the different parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices. According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further comprises discarding, via the processing circuitry 84, the obtained indication, ignoring the obtained indication, or treating the obtained indication as invalid, when at least one of: the WD 22 lacks a capability for a priority slice; a timer expires; the indicated parameter set is not available at the WD 22; the WD 22 changes to an idle state; the WD 22 changes mobility state; and the WD 22 deregisters from a priority slice. In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving the obtained indication from the network node 16 via the radio interface 82 on a broadcast channel. In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving the plurality of parameter sets from the network node 16 via the radio interface 82. In some embodiments, the obtained indication is received from the network node 16 in an RRCRelease message that can be used to move the WD 22 from one state to another state.

[0183] According to one aspect, a network node 16 is configured to communicate with a wireless device (WD). The network node 16 includes a radio interface 62 and / or processing circuitry 68 configured to transmit, to the WD 22, an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters of the set including at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD 22 to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index.

[0184] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the index is an index of a set of indices received from a central node in communication with the network node 16 and other network nodes. In some embodiments, the network node 16 selects the index based on a registered slice or service.

[0185] According to another aspect, a method implemented in a network node 16 in communication with a wireless device, WD 22, includes transmitting, to the WD 22, an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set including at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD 22 to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index.

[0186] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the index is an index of a set of indices received from a central node in communication with the network node 16 and other network nodes. In some embodiments, the network node 16 selects the index based on a registered slice or service.

[0187] According to yet another aspect, a WD 22 configured to communicate with a network node 16 includes a radio interface 82 and / or processing circuitry 84 configured to obtain an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set including at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD 22 to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index, and select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service based at least in part on a threshold value included in the parameter set.

[0188] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the indication is obtained from the network node 16. In some embodiments, when the indication is not obtained from the network node 16, the WD 22 obtains a default indication of the parameter set from a memory of the WD 22. In some embodiments, the indication indicates more than one set, the WD 22 selecting from the more than one set based at least in part on whether the indicated set is stored in the memory of the WD 22.

[0189] According to another aspect, a method implemented in a wireless device includes obtaining an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set including at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD 22 to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index. The method further includes selecting one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service based at least in part on a threshold value included in the parameter set.

[0190] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the indication is obtained from the network node 16. In some embodiments, when the indication is not obtained from the network node 16, the WD 22 obtains a default indication of the parameter set from a memory of the WD 22. In some embodiments, the indication indicates more than one set, the WD 22 selecting from the more than one set based at least in part on whether the indicated set is stored in the memory of the WD 22.

[0191] Some embodiments include:

[0192] Embodiment A1. A network node configured to communicate with a wireless device, WD, the network node configured to and / or comprising a radio interface and / or comprising processing circuitry configured to:

[0193] transmit, to the WD, an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set comprising at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index.

[0194] Embodiment A2. The network node of Embodiment A1, wherein the index is an index of a set of indices received from a central node in communication with the network node and other network nodes.

[0195] Embodiment A3. The network node of Embodiment A1, wherein the network node selects the index based on a registered slice or service.

[0196] Embodiment B1. A method implemented in a network node in communication with a wireless device, WD, the method comprising:

[0197] transmitting, to the WD, an index indicating a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set comprising at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index.

[0198] Embodiment B2. The method of Embodiment B1, wherein the index is an index of a set of indices received from a central node in communication with the network node and other network nodes.

[0199] Embodiment B3. The method of Embodiment B1, wherein the network node selects the index based on a registered slice or service.

[0200] Embodiment C1. A wireless device, WD, configured to communicate with a network node, the WD configured to and / or comprising a radio interface and / or processing circuitry configured to:

[0201] obtain an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameters in the set comprising at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index; and

[0202] select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service based at least in part on a threshold value included in the parameter set.

[0203] Embodiment C2. The WD of Embodiment C1, wherein the indication is obtained from the network node.

[0204] Embodiment C3. A WD as in Embodiment C2, wherein the WD obtains a default indication of the set of parameters from a memory of the WD when the indication is not obtained from the network node.

[0205] Embodiment C4. A WD as in Embodiment C1, wherein the indication indicates more than one set, the WD selecting from the more than one set based at least in part on whether the indicated set is stored in a memory of the WD.

[0206] Embodiment D1. A method implemented in a wireless device (WD), the method comprising:

[0207] obtaining an indication of a set of parameters of a plurality of sets of parameters, the parameters in the set including at least one threshold value and at least one priority, the index being used to configure the WD to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the index; and

[0208] selecting one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service based at least in part on a threshold value included in the set of parameters.

[0209] Embodiment D2. A method as in Embodiment D1, wherein the indication is obtained from a network node.

[0210] Embodiment D3. A method as in Embodiment D2, wherein the WD obtains a default indication of the set of parameters from a memory of the WD when the indication is not obtained from the network node.

[0211] Embodiment D4. A method as in Embodiment D1, wherein the indication indicates more than one set, the WD selecting from the more than one set based at least in part on whether the indicated set is stored in a memory of the WD.

[0212] As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the concepts described herein can be embodied as a method, data processing system, computer program product, and / or computer storage media storing executable computer program code. Accordingly, the concepts described herein can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that can all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit” or “module.” Any process, step, action and / or functionality described herein can be performed by, and / or associated to, a corresponding module, which can be implemented in software and / or firmware and / or hardware. Furthermore, the disclosure can take the form of a computer program product on a tangible computer usable storage medium having computer program code embodied in the medium that can be executed by a computer. Any suitable tangible computer readable medium can be utilized including a hard disk, CD-ROM, electronic storage, optical storage, or magnetic storage.

[0213] Some embodiments are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, systems and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer (with the processor thereby being special purpose machinery for the functions described), special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0214] These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable memory or storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0215] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0216] It will be understood that the functions / acts noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the operational illustrations. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality / acts involved. Although some diagrams include arrows on communication paths to show the primary direction of communication, it is to be understood that communication can occur in the opposite direction to the arrows.

[0217] Computer program code for carrying out operations of the concepts described herein can be written in an object oriented programming language such as Java® or C++. However, the computer program code for carrying out operations of the disclosure can also be written in a conventional procedural programming language such as the "C" programming language. The program code can execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0218] In combination with the above description and drawings, a number of different embodiments have been disclosed herein. It will be understood that describing and illustrating every combination and sub-combination of these embodiments would be undue repetition and cause confusion. Therefore, all embodiments can be combined in any manner and / or combination, and this specification (including the drawings) should be interpreted as constituting a full written description of all combinations and sub-combinations of the embodiments described herein and the manner and process of creating and using these embodiments, and should support a claim to any such combination or sub-combination.

[0219] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments described herein are not limited to what has been specifically shown and described herein. In addition, unless otherwise noted, not all of the drawings are to scale. Various modifications and changes can be made as understood by those skilled in the art from the above-described teachings.

Claims

1. A network node (16) configured to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices WD (22), the network node (16) comprising: a processing circuit configured to select an index indicating a parameter set from a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set comprising at least one priority used to configure a WD to select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service, the selection being based at least in part on one of a registered slice and service, the index being usable to configure at least one WD (22) from a first group of WDs (22) to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the selected index; as well as A radio interface in communication with the processing circuitry is configured to send the selected index to the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

2. The network node (16) according to claim 1, wherein The radio interface is further configured to broadcast the plurality of parameter sets to a plurality of wireless devices.

3. The network node (16) according to claim 1, wherein The radio interface is configured to unicast the plurality of parameter sets to a specific WD (22) of the at least one WD (22) in the first group of WDs (22).

4. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each of the multiple parameter sets corresponds to another one of the registered slices or services.

5. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: One of the plurality of parameter sets is a default parameter set.

6. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The processing circuit is further configured to select a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set among the plurality of parameter sets; and The radio interface is further configured to send the selected plurality of indexes to the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

7. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The priorities in the parameter set direct the at least one WD (22) in the first group of WDs (22) to prioritize one slice or service over another slice or service.

8. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The selection is also based on a capability of the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

9. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The selection is also based on a mobility state of a particular WD (22) in the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

10. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The processing circuit is further configured to select a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set among the plurality of parameter sets; and The radio interface is further configured to send each selected index of the plurality of indexes to a different set of WDs (22).

11. A method in a network node (16) configured to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices WD (22), the method comprising: selecting (S140) an index indicating a parameter set among a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set including at least one priority used to configure a WD to select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service, the selection being based at least in part on one of the registered slices and services, the index being usable to configure at least one WD (22) among the first group of WDs (22) to select a frequency priority based at least in part on the selected index; as well as The selected index is sent (S142) to the at least one WD (22) in the first group of WDs (22).

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: The plurality of parameter sets are broadcast to a plurality of wireless devices.

13. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: The plurality of parameter sets are unicast to a specific WD (22) of the at least one WD (22) in the first group of WDs (22).

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein Each of the multiple parameter sets corresponds to another one of the registered slices or services.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein One of the plurality of parameter sets is a default parameter set.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising: selecting a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set among the plurality of parameter sets; as well as The selected plurality of indexes is sent to the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The priorities in the parameter set direct the at least one WD (22) in the first group of WDs (22) to prioritize one slice or service over another slice or service.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein The selection is also based on a capability of the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

19. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The selection is also based on a mobility state of a particular WD (22) in the at least one WD (22) in the first set of WDs (22).

20. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising: selecting a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set among the plurality of parameter sets; as well as Each selected index of the plurality of indexes is sent to a different set of WDs (22).

21. A wireless device WD (22) configured to communicate with a network node (16), the WD comprising a processing circuit configured to: obtaining an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set comprising at least one priority used to configure the WD to select one of a network slice, a frequency, and a service; and A frequency priority is selected from the parameter set indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to the prioritized slice.

22. The WD (22) according to claim 21, wherein The indication is obtained from the network node (16).

23. The WD (22) according to claim 22, wherein When no indication is obtained from the network node (16), the indication is a default indication or a random indication obtained from a memory of the WD (22).

24. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The processing circuit is further configured to register the WD (22) to the corresponding priority slice.

25. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The processing circuit is further configured to access a cell according to the selected frequency priority when re-initiating communication associated with the corresponding priority slice.

26. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The processing circuit is further configured to: obtaining a plurality of indices, each index of the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set among the plurality of parameter sets; and A parameter set is selected among the parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices, the selection being based at least in part on a comparison of frequency priorities of different parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices.

27. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The processing circuit is further configured to discard the obtained indication, ignore the obtained indication, or consider the obtained indication invalid when at least one of the following occurs: The WD (22) lacks the capability for the priority slicing; Timer expires; The indicated parameter set is not available at said WD (22); The WD (22) changes to an idle state; The WD (22) changes the mobility state; as well as The WD (22) deregisters from the priority slice.

28. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The WD (22) further comprises a radio interface configured to receive the obtained indication from the network node (16) on a broadcast channel.

29. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The WD (22) further comprises a radio interface configured to receive the plurality of parameter sets from the network node (16).

30. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein The obtained indication is received from the network node (16) in a RRCRelease message that can be used to move the WD (22) from one state to another.

31. A method in a wireless device WD (22) configured to communicate with a network node (16), the method comprising: obtaining ( S144 ) an indication of a parameter set of a plurality of parameter sets, the parameter set comprising at least one priority used to configure the WD to select one of the network slice, the frequency, and the service; as well as A frequency priority is selected (S146) from the parameter set indicated by the obtained indication, the obtained indication corresponding to the priority slice.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein The indication is obtained from the network node (16).

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein When no indication is obtained from the network node (16), the indication is a default indication or a random indication obtained from a memory of the WD (22).

34. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising: The WD (22) is registered to the corresponding priority slice.

35. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising: When re-initiating communication associated with the corresponding priority slice, the cell is accessed according to the selected frequency priority.

36. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising: obtaining a plurality of indices, each index in the plurality of indices indicating a different parameter set in the plurality of parameter sets; as well as A parameter set is selected among the parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices, the selection being based at least in part on a comparison of frequency priorities of different parameter sets indicated by the plurality of indices.

37. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising: The obtained instructions are discarded, ignored, or considered invalid when at least one of the following occurs: The WD (22) lacks the capability for the priority slicing; Timer expires; The indicated parameter set is not available at said WD (22); The WD (22) changes to an idle state; The WD (22) changes the mobility state; as well as The WD (22) deregisters from the priority slice.

38. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising: The obtained indication is received from the network node (16) on a broadcast channel.

39. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising: The plurality of parameter sets are received from the network node (16).

40. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein The obtained indication is received from the network node (16) in a RRCRelease message that can be used to move the WD (22) from one state to another.

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