Capability indication, determination method and apparatus, communication apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a capability indication method, a determining method and apparatus, a communication apparatus and a storage medium. The capability indication method comprises: sending first capability information to a core network, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate a support capability of a base station for multi-SIM card connection switching of a terminal. According to the disclosure, the base station can generate the first capability information according to its own support capability for the multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the first capability information to the core network. After receiving the first capability information, the core network can determine the support capability of the base station for the multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal according to the first capability information. Since the core network can receive the first capability information reported by at least one base station, it can determine the support capability of the at least one base station for the multi-SIM card connection switching, and then notify the terminal of the support capability of the base station for the multi-SIM card connection switching as needed, so that the terminal can determine whether to access a target base station according to the support capability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a capability indication method, a capability determination method, a capability indication device, a capability determination device, a communication device, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In a multi-SIM terminal, multiple SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards can be configured. The terminal can communicate through multiple SIM cards. For example, if the terminal has SIM card #1 and SIM card #2 configured, the terminal can use SIM card #1 for communication operations, or it can use SIM card #2 for communication operations.

[0003] However, in certain scenarios, when a terminal is using SIM card #1 for communication, it may need to use SIM card #2 for communication. This requires the terminal to switch between multiple SIM card connections, switching from using SIM card #1 to using SIM card #2 for communication. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a capability indication method, a capability determination method, a capability indication device, a capability determination device, a communication device, and a computer-readable storage medium to solve the technical problems in the related art.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a capability indication method is proposed, executed by a base station, the method comprising: sending first capability information to a core network, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of a terminal.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a capability indication method is proposed, executed by a core network, the method comprising: sending second capability information to a base station, wherein the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of a terminal.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a capability determination method is proposed, executed by a terminal, comprising: receiving capability information obtained by a first network-side device from a second network-side device; and determining, based on the capability information, the capability of the second network-side device to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a capability indication device is provided, comprising one or more processors configured to perform: sending first capability information to a core network, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of a terminal.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a capability indication device is provided, comprising one or more processors configured to perform: sending second capability information to a base station, wherein the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of a terminal.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a capability determination apparatus is provided, comprising one or more processors, the processors being configured to perform: receiving capability information obtained by a first network-side device from a second network-side device; and determining, based on the capability information, the capability of the second network-side device to support multi-SIM card connection switching for a terminal.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor; a memory for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the above-described capability indication method executed by a base station is implemented.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor; a memory for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the aforementioned capability indication method executed by the core network is implemented.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor; a memory for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the above-described capability determination method is implemented.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the capability indication method executed by a base station described above.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the capability indication method executed by the core network described above.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the capability determination method described above.

[0017] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a base station can generate first capability information based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the first capability information to the core network. After receiving the first capability information, the core network can determine the base station's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching based on the first capability information.

[0018] Since the core network can receive the first capability information reported by at least one base station, it can determine the support capability of at least one base station for multi-SIM card connection switching. Subsequently, it can inform the terminal of the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching as needed, so that the terminal can determine whether to access the target base station. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a capability indication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a capability indication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 13 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a capability determination method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 15 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another capability determination method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 16 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability determination method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 17 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an apparatus for capability indication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 18 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an apparatus for capability determination according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0039] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. The singular forms “a” and “the” as used in this disclosure and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0040] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various information in embodiments of this disclosure, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from each other. For example, without departing from the scope of embodiments of this disclosure, a first SIM card may also be referred to as a second SIM card, and similarly, a second SIM card may also be referred to as a first SIM card. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to a determination."

[0041] For the sake of brevity and ease of understanding, this document uses the terms "greater than" or "less than", "higher than" or "lower than" to describe size relationships. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the term "greater than" also includes the meaning of "greater than or equal to", and "less than" also includes the meaning of "less than or equal to"; the term "higher than" also includes the meaning of "higher than or equal to", and "lower than" also includes the meaning of "lower than or equal to".

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a capability indication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The capability indication method shown in this embodiment can be executed by a base station, which can communicate with communication devices such as terminals and core networks. The terminals include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices. The base station includes, but is not limited to, base stations in communication systems such as 4G, 5G, and 6G.

[0043] In one embodiment, the terminal may be equipped with multiple SIM cards, which may be traditional SIM cards or eSIM cards, i.e., embedded SIM cards.

[0044] The following description exemplifies the technical solution of this disclosure, primarily in the case of multiple SIM cards, including a first SIM card and a second SIM card. Here, "first SIM card" and "second SIM card" do not refer to a specific SIM card, but rather to any two different SIM cards among multiple SIM cards. The first SIM card and the second SIM card can belong to the same operator or different operators, depending on the requirements.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the capability determination method may include the following steps:

[0046] In step S101, first capability information is sent to the core network, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0047] In one embodiment, the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, including at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card. The multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation (in this case, the communication operation performed by the first SIM card can be interrupted). It should be noted that the multi-SIM card connection switching is not limited to the above situation; for example, it may also include activating the second SIM card for communication operation simultaneously while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation (in this case, the communication operation performed by the first SIM card can be uninterrupted). The following mainly focuses on the case where the multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation, providing an exemplary description of the technical solution of this disclosure.

[0048] In response to this situation, network-side equipment such as base stations and core networks need to perform appropriate operations and configurations for the terminal. Taking network-side equipment, including base stations, as an example, if a terminal communicates with the first base station through the first SIM card, and then needs to communicate with the second base station through the second SIM card, for example, to receive system information sent by the second base station, then the communication operation between the first base station and the first SIM card needs to be interrupted for a period of time. After the communication between the first base station and the second SIM card is completed, the first base station will then resume the communication operation with the first SIM card.

[0049] However, not all network-side devices support resumption of communication after the first SIM card's operation is interrupted. For example, some base stations can perform appropriate operations and configurations for multi-SIM connection switching, i.e., they support multi-SIM card connection switching, while others cannot, i.e., they do not support multi-SIM card connection switching. Furthermore, even for network-side devices that support multi-SIM card connection switching, the specific support for multi-SIM card connection switching may vary. For example, a base station may support multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card is out of connection, or it may support multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card remains in connection.

[0050] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the base station can generate first capability information based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the first capability information to the core network. After receiving the first capability information, the core network can determine the base station's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching based on the first capability information, such as whether multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, and if multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, under what specific conditions multi-SIM card connection switching is supported.

[0051] Since the core network can receive the first capability information reported by at least one base station, it can determine the support capability of at least one base station for multi-SIM card connection switching. Subsequently, it can inform the terminal of the support capability of the base station for multi-SIM card connection switching as needed. For example, the terminal can receive the information sent by the core network, but cannot receive the information sent by the base station temporarily. For example, if the core network determines that the terminal is about to enter the signal coverage area of ​​the target base station, it can inform the terminal of the support capability of the target base station for multi-SIM card connection switching, so that the terminal can determine whether to access the target base station, whether to report the information for multi-SIM card switching to the target base station, and whether to request the interval for multi-SIM card connection switching from the target base station.

[0052] In one embodiment, the core network can send the first capability information of the base station for multi-SIM card connection switching to the terminal. For example, the terminal can receive the capability information of multiple base stations for multi-SIM card connection switching from the core network. The terminal can determine its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then determine the base station whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0053] For example, if the terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and among the multi-SIM card connection switching capability information received from multiple base stations, it can be determined that base station X supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, while base station Y only supports multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card leaves the connected state. Therefore, it can be determined that the multi-SIM card connection switching support capability of base station X matches the terminal's own multi-SIM card connection switching support capability, while the multi-SIM card connection switching support capability of base station Y does not match the terminal's own multi-SIM card connection switching support capability.

[0054] Therefore, given the choice between base station X and base station Y, the terminal can prioritize accessing base station X. For example, it can prioritize camping on the cell corresponding to base station X, or prioritize cell reselection on the cell corresponding to base station X. Accordingly, it can be ensured that after the terminal accesses base station X, when switching between multiple SIM card connections, it reports the multi-SIM card connection switching information to base station X, and base station X is able to make appropriate configurations for the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0055] The information for multi-SIM card connection switching includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: the type of communication operation performed through the second SIM card, the identifier of the second SIM card, and the duration of the communication operation performed through the second SIM card. The configuration corresponding to multi-SIM card connection switching includes information related to the gap during multi-SIM card connection switching, such as the gap start position, gap end position, gap duration, and gap type (periodic, non-periodic).

[0056] In one embodiment, the first capability information is further used to indicate the ability of other base stations connected to the base station to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

[0057] Base stations can establish communication connections by setting up interfaces. For example, base station A and base station B can establish interfaces, such as the X2 interface or the Xn interface. Base station B can be a neighboring base station of base station A. Base station A and base station B can communicate through these interfaces. For instance, base station B can inform base station A of its support for multi-SIM card connection switching. Then, base station A can send its support for multi-SIM card connection switching and base station B's support for multi-SIM card connection switching in its first capability information to the core network.

[0058] Therefore, when there is a communication connection between the core network and a base station, the support capability of at least one base station for multi-SIM card connection switching can be obtained, which is conducive to improving the utilization efficiency of communication resources between the base station and the core network.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, sending the first capability information to the core network includes:

[0060] In step S201, during the process of establishing an interface with the core network, the first capability information is sent to the core network.

[0061] In one embodiment, the base station may send initial capability information to the core network during the interface establishment process with the core network. This allows the core network to quickly determine the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0062] In one embodiment, when the base station includes an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (EUTRAN) base station, the first capability information can be carried in an S1 interface setup request (S1 SETUP REQUEST) signaling.

[0063]

[0064] Table 1

[0065] For example, the S1 interface establishment request signaling can be as shown in Table 1 above, carrying information such as MessageType, Global eNB ID, etc. (only part of the information carried by this signaling is shown in the table), and may also carry Leaving Capability, i.e., first capability information. It is understood that each element in Table 1 exists independently. These elements are listed in the same table as an example, but this does not mean that all elements in the table must exist simultaneously as shown in the table. The value of each element is independent of the values ​​of any other element in Table 1. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the value of each element in Table 1 is an independent embodiment.

[0066] In one embodiment, when the base station includes a New Radio (NR) base station, the first capability information is carried in the NG SETUP REQUEST signaling.

[0067]

[0068] Table 2

[0069] For example, the NG interface establishment request signaling can be as shown in Table 2 above, carrying information such as MessageType, Global RAN Node ID, etc. (only part of the information carried by this signaling is shown in the table), and may also carry Leaving Capability, i.e., first capability information. It is understood that each element in Table 2 exists independently. These elements are listed in the same table as an example, but this does not mean that all elements in the table must exist simultaneously as shown in the table. The value of each element is independent of the values ​​of any other element in Table 2. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the value of each element in Table 2 is an independent embodiment.

[0070] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 As shown, sending the first capability information to the core network includes:

[0071] In step S301, after establishing an interface with the core network, the first capability information is sent to the core network.

[0072] In one embodiment, the base station can send the first capability information to the core network after establishing an interface with the core network. This reduces the amount of information carried in the signaling during interface establishment, thereby reducing the amount of information the core network needs to parse and accelerating the interface establishment process.

[0073] In one embodiment, when the base station includes an E-UTRAN base station, the first capability information is carried in the base station configuration update (ENB) signaling. When updating its configuration, the base station can send a base station configuration update signaling to the core network, carrying the first capability information in the signaling. Of course, besides the base station configuration update signaling, the base station can also carry the first capability information to the core network through other signaling as needed.

[0074] In one embodiment, when the base station includes an NR base station, the first capability information is carried in the Radio Access Network Configuration Update (RAN CONFIGURATION UPDATE) signaling. When updating the RAN configuration, the base station can send RAN CONFIGURATION UPDATE signaling to the core network, carrying the first capability information in the signaling. Of course, besides RAN CONFIGURATION UPDATE signaling, the base station can also carry the first capability information to the core network through other signaling as needed.

[0075] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4 As shown, the method further includes:

[0076] In step S401, the second capability information sent by the core network is received, wherein the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0077] In one embodiment, the core network can generate second capability information based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the second capability information to the base station. After receiving the second capability information, the base station can determine the core network's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching based on the second capability information, such as whether multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, and under what conditions multi-SIM card connection switching is supported if multi-SIM card connection switching is supported.

[0078] In one embodiment, the method further includes sending the second capability information to the terminal. It should be noted that the base station may also send the first capability information to the terminal.

[0079] After determining the core network's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, the base station can inform the terminal of this support capability as needed, so that the terminal can determine whether to access the core network, such as registering or attaching to the core network.

[0080] In one embodiment, the base station can send the second capability information of multiple core networks for multi-SIM card connection switching to the terminal. The terminal can determine its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then determine the core network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0081] For example, if the terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and among the multi-SIM card connection switching capability information received from multiple core networks, it can be determined that core network X supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, while core network Y only supports multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card leaves the connected state, then it can be determined that the support capability of core network X for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the support capability of the terminal itself for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0082] Therefore, the terminal can prioritize accessing core network X over core network Y, for example, it can prioritize registering or attaching to core network X. Accordingly, it can be ensured that after the terminal accesses core network X, when switching between multiple SIM card connections, it reports the multi-SIM card connection switching information to core network X, and core network X is able to make appropriate configurations for the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0083] In one embodiment, the second capability information is carried in Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling and / or System Information (SI) and sent to the terminal. That is, the base station can choose to send the second capability information to the terminal by broadcasting it in the SI, or it can choose to send the second capability information to the terminal by unicasting it in the RRC signaling.

[0084] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, the second capability information is carried in the RRC signaling and sent to the terminal. Sending the second capability information to the terminal includes:

[0085] In step S501, a request to obtain the second capability information sent by the terminal is received;

[0086] In step S502, the second capability information is sent to the terminal.

[0087] In one embodiment, when the base station carries the second capability information via RRC signaling, since it transmits it via unicast, a communication connection already exists between the base station and the terminal before transmission. Therefore, it can first determine whether it has received an acquisition request from the terminal. If an acquisition request is received, it can be determined that the terminal needs to acquire the second capability information, and only then will the base station send the second capability information to the terminal in the RRC signaling. This avoids wasting communication resources by sending the second capability information to the terminal when the terminal does not need to acquire it.

[0088] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6 As shown, sending the second capability information to the terminal further includes:

[0089] In step S601, the first condition is determined;

[0090] In step S602, third capability information is determined based on the second capability information, wherein the third capability information is used to indicate the core network's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal under the first condition;

[0091] In step S603, the third capability information is sent to the terminal.

[0092] In one embodiment, since the second capability information may carry multiple support capabilities, such as supporting multi-SIM card connection switching, supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card leaves the connected state, the terminal may not need to determine the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching in every case, but only want to determine the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching in some cases.

[0093] For example, if a terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching under the first condition, then the terminal only needs to determine whether the core network also supports multi-SIM card connection switching under the first condition, and is not interested in multi-SIM card connection switching under other conditions. In this case, the base station can determine the first condition, for example, the first condition can be reported by the terminal, such as being carried in the acquisition request, or it can be pre-agreed with the terminal. Thus, the base station can determine the third capability information based on the first condition in the second capability information. The determined third capability information is the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching under the first condition in the second capability information, and then send the third capability information to the terminal.

[0094] Since the third capability information is a part of the second capability information, it generally occupies relatively few communication resources. On the one hand, it can meet the needs of the terminal, and on the other hand, it helps to save communication resources.

[0095] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7 As shown, sending the second capability information to the terminal includes:

[0096] In step S701, a target terminal that meets the second condition is determined, wherein the second condition includes at least one of the following: the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, or the terminal supports multi-SIM card connection switching;

[0097] In step S702, the second capability information is sent to the target terminal.

[0098] In one embodiment, the base station can selectively send second capability information to the terminal. For example, it can identify target terminals that meet the second condition. For example, the target terminal may be a terminal with multiple SIM cards or a terminal that supports multi-SIM card connection switching. Only for these terminals will the terminal be able to switch multi-SIM card connections, and thus need to obtain the second capability information. Therefore, the second capability information can be sent only to these terminals, which helps to avoid wasting communication resources by sending the second capability information to terminals that do not need to obtain it.

[0099] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a capability indication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The capability indication method shown in this embodiment can be executed by a core network, which can communicate with terminals and base stations. The core network includes, but is not limited to, the core networks of communication systems such as 4G, 5G, and 6G. The terminals include, but are not limited to, communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices.

[0100] like Figure 8 As shown, the capability indication method may include the following steps:

[0101] In step S801, second capability information is sent to the base station, wherein the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0102] In one embodiment, the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, including at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card. The multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation (in this case, the communication operation performed by the first SIM card can be interrupted). It should be noted that the multi-SIM card connection switching is not limited to the above situation; for example, it may also include activating the second SIM card for communication operation simultaneously while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation (in this case, the communication operation performed by the first SIM card can be uninterrupted). The following mainly focuses on the case where the multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation, providing an exemplary description of the technical solution of this disclosure.

[0103] In this situation, network-side equipment such as base stations and core networks need to perform appropriate operations and configurations for the terminal. However, not all network-side equipment supports the resumption of communication after the first SIM card communication operation is interrupted. For example, some core networks can perform appropriate operations and configurations for terminals to switch between multiple SIM cards, i.e., they support multi-SIM card connection switching, while others cannot, i.e., they do not support multi-SIM card connection switching. Furthermore, even for network-side equipment that supports multi-SIM card connection switching, the specific support for multi-SIM card connection switching may vary. For example, the core network may support multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card is out of connection, or it may support multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card remains in connection.

[0104] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network can generate second capability information based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the second capability information to the base station. After receiving the second capability information, the base station can determine the core network's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching based on the second capability information, such as whether multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, and if multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, under what specific conditions multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, and then send the second capability information to the terminal.

[0105] Since the base station can receive the second capability information reported by at least one core network, it can determine the support capability of at least one core network for multi-SIM card connection switching. Subsequently, the support capability of the core network for multi-SIM card connection switching can be informed to the terminal as needed. For example, the terminal can receive the information sent by the base station, but cannot receive the information sent by the core network temporarily, so that the terminal can select the appropriate core network for attachment or registration.

[0106] In one embodiment, the base station can send the second capability information of the core network for multi-SIM card connection switching to the terminal. For example, the terminal can receive multiple capability information of the core network for multi-SIM card connection switching from the base station. The terminal can determine its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then determine the core network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0107] For example, if the terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and among the multi-SIM card connection switching capability information received from multiple core networks, it can be determined that core network X supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, while core network Y only supports multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card leaves the connected state, then it can be determined that the support capability of core network X for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the support capability of the terminal itself for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0108] Therefore, the terminal can prioritize accessing core network X over core network Y, for example, it can prioritize registering or attaching to core network X. Accordingly, it can be ensured that after the terminal accesses core network X, when switching between multiple SIM card connections, it reports the multi-SIM card connection switching information to core network X, and core network X is able to make appropriate configurations for the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0109] The information for multi-SIM card connection switching includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: the type of communication operation performed through the second SIM card, the identifier of the second SIM card, and the duration of the communication operation performed through the second SIM card. The configuration corresponding to multi-SIM card connection switching includes information related to the gap during multi-SIM card connection switching, such as the gap start position, gap end position, gap duration, and gap type (periodic, non-periodic).

[0110] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 As shown, sending the second capability information to the base station includes:

[0111] In step S901, during the process of establishing an interface with the base station, the second capability information is sent to the base station.

[0112] In one embodiment, the core network can send second capability information to the base station during the interface establishment process. This allows the base station to quickly determine the core network's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0113] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an E-UTRAN core network, the second capability information can be carried in the S1 interface establishment response S1 SETUP RESPONSE signaling.

[0114]

[0115] Table 3

[0116] For example, the S1 interface establishment response signaling can be as shown in Table 3 above, carrying information such as MessageType, MME Name, etc. (only part of the information carried by this signaling is shown in the table), and may also carry Leaving Capability, i.e., secondary capability information. It is understood that each element in Table 3 exists independently. These elements are listed in the same table as an example, but this does not mean that all elements in the table must exist simultaneously as shown in the table. The value of each element is independent of the values ​​of any other element in Table 3. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the value of each element in Table 3 is an independent embodiment.

[0117] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an NR core network, the second capability information is carried in the NG interface establishment response NG SETUP RESPONSE signaling.

[0118]

[0119] Table 4

[0120] For example, the NG interface establishment response signaling can be as shown in Table 2 above, carrying information such as MessageType, Access Mobility Management Function Name (AMF Name) (only part of the information carried by this signaling is shown in the table), and may also carry Leaving Capability, i.e., first capability information. It is understood that each element in Table 4 exists independently. These elements are listed in the same table as an example, but this does not mean that all elements in the table must exist simultaneously as shown in the table. The value of each element is independent of the values ​​of any other element in Table 4. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the value of each element in Table 4 is an independent embodiment.

[0121] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 10 As shown, sending the second capability information to the base station includes:

[0122] In step S1001, after establishing an interface with the base station, the second capability information is sent to the base station.

[0123] In one embodiment, the core network can send the second capability information to the base station after establishing an interface with it. This reduces the amount of information carried in the signaling during interface establishment, thereby reducing the amount of information the base station needs to parse and accelerating the interface establishment process.

[0124] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an E-UTRAN core network, the second capability information is carried in the core network configuration update (MME) signaling. When updating its configuration, the core network can send a core network configuration update signaling to the base station, carrying the second capability information in the signaling. Of course, besides the core network configuration update signaling, the core network can also carry the second capability information to the base station via other signaling as needed.

[0125] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an NR core network, the second capability information is carried in the Access Mobility Management Function (AMF) Configuration Update signaling. When updating the AMF configuration, the core network can send a Radio Access Network Configuration Update signaling to the base station, carrying the second capability information in the signaling. Of course, besides the AMF update signaling, the core network can also carry the second capability information to the base station via other signaling as needed.

[0126] Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 11 As shown, the method further includes:

[0127] In step S1101, the first capability information sent by the base station is received, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0128] In one embodiment, the base station can generate first capability information based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the first capability information to the core network. After receiving the first capability information, the core network can determine the base station's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching based on the first capability information, such as whether multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, and if multi-SIM card connection switching is supported, under what specific conditions multi-SIM card connection switching is supported.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first capability information is further used to indicate the ability of other base stations connected to the base station to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

[0130] Base stations can establish communication connections by setting up interfaces. For example, base station A and base station B can establish interfaces, such as the X2 interface or the Xn interface. Base station B can be a neighboring base station of base station A. Base station A and base station B can communicate through these interfaces. For instance, base station B can inform base station A of its support for multi-SIM card connection switching. Then, base station A can send its support for multi-SIM card connection switching and base station B's support for multi-SIM card connection switching in its first capability information to the core network.

[0131] Therefore, when there is a communication connection between the core network and a base station, the support capability of at least one base station for multi-SIM card connection switching can be obtained, which is conducive to improving the utilization efficiency of communication resources between the base station and the core network.

[0132] In one embodiment, the method further includes sending the first capability information (e.g., carried via non-access stratum signaling) to the terminal. It should be noted that the core network may also send the second capability to the terminal.

[0133] In one embodiment, the core network can send the first capability information of multiple base stations for multi-SIM card connection switching to the terminal. The terminal can determine its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then determine the base station network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0134] For example, if the terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and among the received multi-SIM card connection switching capability information from multiple terminals, it can be determined that base station X supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, while base station Y only supports multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card leaves the connected state. Therefore, it can be determined that the multi-SIM card connection switching support capability of base station X matches the multi-SIM card connection switching support capability of the terminal itself.

[0135] Therefore, given the choice between base station X and base station Y, the terminal can prioritize accessing base station X. For example, it can prioritize camping on the cell corresponding to base station X, perform cell reselection, and other operations. Accordingly, it can be ensured that after the terminal accesses base station X, when switching between multiple SIM card connections, it reports the multi-SIM card connection switching information to base station X, and base station X is capable of making appropriate configurations for the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0136] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 12 As shown, sending the first capability information to the terminal further includes:

[0137] In step S1201, the third condition is determined;

[0138] In step S1202, fourth capability information is determined based on the first capability information, wherein the fourth capability information is used to indicate the core network's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal under the third condition;

[0139] In step S1203, the fourth capability information is sent to the terminal.

[0140] In one embodiment, since the first capability information may carry multiple support capabilities, such as supporting multi-SIM card connection switching, supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card leaves the connected state, the terminal may not need to determine the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching in every case, but only want to determine the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching in some cases.

[0141] For example, if a terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching under a third condition, then the terminal only needs to determine whether the base station also supports multi-SIM card connection switching under the third condition, and is not interested in multi-SIM card connection switching under other conditions. In this case, the core network can determine the third condition, for example, the third condition can be reported by the terminal or agreed upon in advance with the terminal, and then the fourth capability information can be determined based on the third condition in the first capability information. The determined fourth capability information is the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching under the third condition in the first capability information, and then the fourth capability information is sent to the terminal.

[0142] Since the fourth capability information is a part of the first capability information, it generally occupies relatively few communication resources. On the one hand, it can meet the needs of the terminal, and on the other hand, it helps to save communication resources.

[0143] Figure 13 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability indication method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 13 As shown, sending the first capability information to the terminal includes:

[0144] In step S1301, a target terminal that meets the second condition is determined, wherein the second condition includes at least one of the following: the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, or the terminal supports multi-SIM card connection switching;

[0145] In step S1302, the first capability information is sent to the target terminal.

[0146] In one embodiment, the core network can selectively send first capability information to the terminal. For example, it can identify target terminals that meet the second condition. For example, the target terminal may be a terminal with multiple SIM cards or a terminal that supports multi-SIM card connection switching. Only for these terminals can the terminal perform multi-SIM card connection switching, and thus need to obtain the second capability information. Therefore, the first capability information can be sent only to these terminals, which helps to avoid wasting communication resources by sending the first capability information to terminals that do not need to obtain it.

[0147] Figure 14 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a capability determination method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The capability determination method shown in this embodiment can be executed by a terminal, which includes, but is not limited to, communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices. The terminal can communicate with network-side devices such as base stations and core networks, and the network-side devices include, but are not limited to, network-side devices in 4G, 5G, and 6G communication systems.

[0148] like Figure 14 As shown, the capability determination method may include the following steps:

[0149] In step S1401, the capability information obtained by the first network-side device from the second network-side device is received;

[0150] In step S1402, the capability of the second network-side device to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal is determined based on the capability information.

[0151] In one embodiment, the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, including at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card. The multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation (in this case, the communication operation performed by the first SIM card can be interrupted). It should be noted that the multi-SIM card connection switching is not limited to the above situation; for example, it may also include activating the second SIM card for communication operation simultaneously while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation (in this case, the communication operation performed by the first SIM card can be uninterrupted). The following mainly focuses on the case where the multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation while the first SIM card is performing a communication operation, providing an exemplary description of the technical solution of this disclosure.

[0152] In response to this situation, network-side equipment such as base stations and core networks need to perform appropriate operations and configurations for the terminal. Taking network-side equipment, including base stations, as an example, if a terminal communicates with the first base station through the first SIM card, and then needs to communicate with the second base station through the second SIM card, for example, to receive system information sent by the second base station, then the communication operation between the first base station and the first SIM card needs to be interrupted for a period of time. After the communication between the first base station and the second SIM card is completed, the first base station will then resume the communication operation with the first SIM card.

[0153] However, not all network-side devices support resumption of communication after the first SIM card communication operation is interrupted. For example, some network-side devices can perform appropriate operations and configurations for multi-SIM connection switching, i.e., they support multi-SIM card connection switching, while others cannot, i.e., they do not support multi-SIM card connection switching. Furthermore, even for network-side devices that support multi-SIM card connection switching, the specific support for multi-SIM card connection switching may vary. For example, a network-side device may support multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card is out of connection, or it may support multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card remains connected.

[0154] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the second network-side device can generate capability information based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then send the capability information to the first network-side device. After receiving the capability information, the first network-side device can determine the second network-side device's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal, such as whether it supports multi-SIM card connection switching, and if so, under what conditions it specifically supports multi-SIM card connection switching. Subsequently, the first network-side device can inform the terminal of the second network-side device's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching as needed, so that the terminal can determine whether to connect to the second network-side device accordingly.

[0155] In one embodiment, the first network-side device includes a base station, and the second network-side device includes a core network; or, the first network-side device includes a core network and the first network-side device includes a base station.

[0156] Figure 15 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another capability determination method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 15 As shown, the first network-side device includes a base station, the second network-side device includes a core network, and the method further includes:

[0157] In step S1501, the capability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal and the target core network matching the capability to perform multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal are determined based on the capability information.

[0158] In step S1502, attachment or registration is performed to the target core network.

[0159] In one embodiment, the base station can send information about the capabilities of multiple core networks for multi-SIM card connection switching to the terminal. The terminal can then determine its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching and thus identify the core network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0160] For example, if the terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and among the multi-SIM card connection switching capability information received from multiple core networks, it can be determined that core network X supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, while core network Y only supports multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card leaves the connected state, then it can be determined that the support capability of core network X for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the support capability of the terminal itself for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0161] Therefore, the terminal can prioritize accessing core network X over core network Y, for example, it can prioritize registering or attaching to core network X. Accordingly, it can be ensured that after the terminal accesses core network X, when switching between multiple SIM card connections, it reports the multi-SIM card connection switching information to core network X, and core network X is able to make appropriate configurations for the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0162] Figure 16 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating yet another capability determination method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 16 As shown, the first network-side device includes a core network, the second network-side device includes a base station, and the method further includes:

[0163] In step S1601, the capability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal and the target base station matching the capability to perform multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal are determined based on the capability information.

[0164] In step S1602, the target base station is requested to perform camping or cell reselection.

[0165] In one embodiment, the core network can send the capability information of multiple base stations for multi-SIM card connection switching to the terminal. The terminal can determine its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then determine the base station network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0166] For example, if the terminal itself supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and among the received multi-SIM card connection switching capability information from multiple terminals, it can be determined that base station X supports multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, while base station Y only supports multi-SIM card connection switching when the first SIM card leaves the connected state. Therefore, it can be determined that the multi-SIM card connection switching support capability of base station X matches the multi-SIM card connection switching support capability of the terminal itself.

[0167] Therefore, given the choice between base station X and base station Y, the terminal can prioritize accessing base station X. For example, it can prioritize camping on the cell corresponding to base station X, perform cell reselection, and other operations. Accordingly, it can be ensured that after the terminal accesses base station X, when switching between multiple SIM card connections, it reports the multi-SIM card connection switching information to base station X, and base station X is capable of making appropriate configurations for the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching.

[0168] Corresponding to the embodiments of the aforementioned capability indication method and capability determination method, this disclosure also provides embodiments of the capability indication device and capability determination device.

[0169] Embodiments of this disclosure propose a capability indication device, which can be applied to a base station. The base station can communicate with communication devices such as terminals and core networks. The terminals include, but are not limited to, communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices. The base station includes, but is not limited to, base stations in communication systems such as 4G, 5G, and 6G.

[0170] In one embodiment, the terminal may be equipped with multiple SIM cards, which may be traditional SIM cards or eSIM cards, i.e., embedded SIM cards.

[0171] The following description exemplifies the technical solution of this disclosure, primarily in the case of multiple SIM cards, including a first SIM card and a second SIM card. Here, "first SIM card" and "second SIM card" do not refer to a specific SIM card, but rather to any two different SIM cards among multiple SIM cards. The first SIM card and the second SIM card can belong to the same operator or different operators, depending on the requirements.

[0172] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes one or more processors configured to perform: sending first capability information to the core network, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal.

[0173] In one embodiment, the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, including at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card, and the multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation when the communication operation is performed through the first SIM card.

[0174] In one embodiment, the first capability information is further used to indicate the ability of other base stations connected to the base station to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

[0175] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform the following: during the process of establishing an interface with the core network, sending the first capability information to the core network.

[0176] In one embodiment, when the base station includes an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) base station, the first capability information can be carried in an S1 interface establishment request (S1 SETUP REQUEST) signaling.

[0177] In one embodiment, when the base station includes a new radio (NR) base station, the first capability information is carried in the NG interface setup request (NG SETUP REQUEST) signaling.

[0178] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform the following: after establishing an interface with the core network, send the first capability information to the core network.

[0179] In one embodiment, when the base station includes an E-UTRAN base station, the first capability information is carried in the base station configuration update (ENB) signaling.

[0180] In one embodiment, when the base station includes an NR base station, the first capability information is carried in the Radio Access Network Configuration Update (RAN CONFIGURATION UPDATE) signaling.

[0181] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to perform: receiving second capability information sent by the core network, wherein the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal.

[0182] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to perform: sending the second capability information to the terminal.

[0183] In one embodiment, the second capability information is carried in Radio Access Control (RRC) signaling and / or System Information (SI) and sent to the terminal.

[0184] In one embodiment, the second capability information is carried in RRC signaling and sent to the terminal, and the processor is configured to perform: receiving a request from the terminal to obtain the second capability information; and sending the second capability information to the terminal.

[0185] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform: determining a first condition; determining third capability information based on the second capability information, wherein the third capability information is used to indicate the core network's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal under the first condition; and sending the third capability information to the terminal.

[0186] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform: determining a target terminal that meets a second condition, wherein the second condition includes at least one of the following: the terminal has multiple SIM cards, or the terminal supports multi-SIM card connection switching; and sending the second capability information to the target terminal.

[0187] Embodiments of this disclosure propose a capability indication device, which can be applied to a core network that can communicate with terminals and base stations. The core network includes, but is not limited to, the core network of communication systems such as 4G, 5G, and 6G. The terminals include, but are not limited to, communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices.

[0188] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes one or more processors configured to perform: sending second capability information to a base station, wherein the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal.

[0189] In one embodiment, the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, including at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card, and the multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation when the communication operation is performed through the first SIM card.

[0190] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform the following: during the process of establishing an interface with the base station, sending the second capability information to the base station.

[0191] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an E-UTRAN core network, the second capability information can be carried in the S1 interface establishment response S1 SETUP RESPONSE signaling.

[0192] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an NR core network, the second capability information is carried in the NG interface establishment response NG SETUP RESPONSE signaling.

[0193] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform the following: after establishing an interface with the base station, send the second capability information to the base station.

[0194] In one embodiment, where the core network includes an E-UTRAN core network, the second capability information is carried in the core network configuration update (MME) signaling.

[0195] In one embodiment, when the core network includes an NR core network, the second capability information is carried in the Access Mobility Management Function Configuration Update (AMF CONFIGURATION UPDATE) signaling.

[0196] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to perform: receiving first capability information sent by the base station, wherein the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal.

[0197] In one embodiment, the first capability information is further used to indicate the ability of other base stations connected to the base station to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

[0198] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to perform: sending the first capability information to the terminal.

[0199] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform: determining a third condition; determining fourth capability information based on the first capability information, wherein the fourth capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching under the third condition; and sending the fourth capability information to the terminal.

[0200] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to perform: determining a target terminal that meets a second condition, wherein the second condition includes at least one of the following: the terminal has multiple SIM cards, or the terminal supports multi-SIM card connection switching; and sending the first capability information to the target terminal.

[0201] The embodiments of this disclosure also propose a capability determination device, which can be applied to a terminal, including but not limited to communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices. The terminal can communicate with network-side devices such as base stations and core networks, including but not limited to network-side devices in communication systems such as 4G, 5G, and 6G.

[0202] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes one or more processors configured to perform: receiving capability information obtained by a first network-side device from a second network-side device; and determining, based on the capability information, the capability of the second network-side device to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

[0203] In one embodiment, the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, including at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card, and the multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operation when the communication operation is performed through the first SIM card.

[0204] In one embodiment, the first network-side device includes a base station, the second network-side device includes a core network, and the processor is further configured to perform: determining, based on the capability information, the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal and a target core network that matches the capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; and attaching or registering with the target core network.

[0205] In one embodiment, the first network-side device includes a core network, the second network-side device includes a base station, and the processor is further configured to perform: determining, based on the capability information, the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal and a target base station matching the capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; and performing camping or cell reselection at the target base station.

[0206] Regarding the apparatus in the above embodiments, the specific manner in which each module performs its operation has been described in detail in the embodiments of the relevant methods, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0207] For the device embodiments, since they basically correspond to the method embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to in the description of the method embodiments. The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs. Those skilled in the art can understand and implement this without creative effort.

[0208] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, comprising: a processor; a memory for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the capability indication method executed by a base station as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0209] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, comprising: a processor; a memory for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the capability indication method executed by the core network as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0210] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, comprising: a processor; a memory for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the capability determination method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0211] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the capability indication method executed by a base station as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0212] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the capability indication method executed by the core network as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0213] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the capability determination method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0214] like Figure 17 As shown, Figure 17 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a capability indication device 1700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Device 1700 can be provided as a base station. (Refer to...) Figure 17The device 1700 includes a processing component 1722, a wireless transmitting / receiving component 1724, an antenna component 1726, and a signal processing section specific to the wireless interface. The processing component 1722 may further include one or more processors. One of the processors in the processing component 1722 may be configured to implement the capability indication method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0215] Figure 18 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an apparatus 1800 for capability determination according to embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, apparatus 1800 may be a mobile phone, computer, digital broadcasting terminal, messaging device, game console, tablet device, medical device, fitness equipment, personal digital assistant, etc.

[0216] Reference Figure 18 The device 1800 may include one or more of the following components: a processing component 1802, a memory 1804, a power supply component 1806, a multimedia component 1808, an audio component 1810, an input / output (I / O) interface 1812, a sensor component 1814, and a communication component 1816.

[0217] Processing component 1802 typically controls the overall operation of device 1800, such as operations associated with display, telephone calls, data communication, camera operation, and recording operations. Processing component 1802 may include one or more processors 1820 to execute instructions to perform all or part of the steps of the capability determination method described above. Furthermore, processing component 1802 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 1802 and other components. For example, processing component 1802 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 1808 and processing component 1802.

[0218] Memory 1804 is configured to store various types of data to support the operation of device 1800. Examples of this data include instructions for any application or method operating on device 1800, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. Memory 1804 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0219] Power supply component 1806 provides power to various components of device 1800. Power supply component 1806 may include a power management system, one or more power sources, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to device 1800.

[0220] Multimedia component 1808 includes a screen that provides an output interface between the device 1800 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundaries of the touch or swipe action but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation. In some embodiments, multimedia component 1808 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When the device 1800 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front-facing camera and / or the rear-facing camera may receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera may be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0221] Audio component 1810 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 1810 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when device 1800 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 1804 or transmitted via communication component 1816. In some embodiments, audio component 1810 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0222] I / O interface 1812 provides an interface between processing component 1802 and peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, power buttons, and lock buttons.

[0223] Sensor assembly 1814 includes one or more sensors for providing status assessments of various aspects of device 1800. For example, sensor assembly 1814 may detect the on / off state of device 1800, the relative positioning of components such as the display and keypad of device 1800, changes in position of device 1800 or a component of device 1800, the presence or absence of user contact with device 1800, the orientation or acceleration / deceleration of device 1800, and temperature changes of device 1800. Sensor assembly 1814 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 1814 may also include an optical sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 1814 may also include an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a pressure sensor, or a temperature sensor.

[0224] Communication component 1816 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between device 1800 and other devices. Device 1800 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as WiFi, 2G or 3G, 4G LTE, 5G NR, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 1816 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 1816 also includes a near-field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, and other technologies.

[0225] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 1800 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the above-described capability determination method.

[0226] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 1804 including instructions, which can be executed by a processor 1820 of the device 1800 to complete the capability determination method described above. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be a ROM, random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, etc.

[0227] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0228] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

[0229] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. The terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0230] The methods and apparatus provided in the embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this disclosure. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the methods and core ideas of this disclosure. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this disclosure. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A capability indication method, characterized in that, Performed by the base station, the method includes: The terminal sends first capability information to the core network so that it can determine a target base station whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then camps or performs cell reselection at the target base station; wherein, the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, and the multiple SIM cards include at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card; The terminal receives second capability information sent by the core network and sends the second capability information to the terminal, so that the terminal, based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, determines a target core network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and attaches or registers with the target core network; wherein, the second capability information is used to indicate the core network's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching. The capability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal includes at least one of the following: supporting multi-SIM card connection switching, supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card leaves the connected state.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operations when the first SIM card is being used for communication operations.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first capability information is also used to indicate the ability of other base stations connected to the base station to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sending of the first capability information to the core network includes: During the process of establishing an interface with the core network, the first capability information is sent to the core network.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the case where the base station includes an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (EUTRAN) base station, the first capability information can be carried in the S1 interface establishment request (S1 SETUP REQUEST) signaling.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the case where the base station includes a New Radio (NR) base station, the first capability information is carried in the NG interface establishment request (NG SETUP REQUEST) signaling.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sending of the first capability information to the core network includes: After establishing an interface with the core network, the first capability information is sent to the core network.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the case where the base station includes an E-UTRAN base station, the first capability information is carried in the base station configuration update (ENB) signaling.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the base station includes an NR base station, the first capability information is carried in the Radio Access Network Configuration Update (RAN CONFIGURATION UPDATE) signaling.

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second capability information is carried in Radio Access Control (RRC) signaling and / or System Information (SI) and sent to the terminal.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second capability information is carried in RRC signaling and sent to the terminal. Sending the second capability information to the terminal includes: Receive the terminal's request to obtain the second capability information; and The second capability information is sent to the terminal.

12. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The step of sending the second capability information to the terminal includes: Determine the first condition; The third capability information is determined based on the second capability information, wherein the third capability information is used to indicate the core network's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching by the terminal under the first condition; and The third capability information is sent to the terminal.

13. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of sending the second capability information to the terminal includes: A target terminal that meets the second condition is identified, wherein the second condition includes at least one of the following: the terminal has multiple SIM cards; the terminal supports multi-SIM card connection switching; and The second capability information is sent to the target terminal.

14. A capability indication method, characterized in that, Performed by the core network, the method includes: The terminal sends second capability information to the base station so that it can determine a target core network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and attach or register with the target core network; wherein, the second capability information is used to instruct the core network on the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching; the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, and the multiple SIM cards include at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card; The terminal receives first capability information sent by the base station and sends the first capability information to the terminal, so that the terminal determines a target base station whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and performs camping or cell reselection with the target base station; wherein, the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; The capability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal includes at least one of the following: supporting multi-SIM card connection switching, supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card leaves the connected state.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operations when the first SIM card is being used for communication operations.

16. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The step of sending the second capability information to the base station includes: During the process of establishing an interface with the base station, the second capability information is sent to the base station.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, In the case where the core network includes an E-UTRAN core network, the second capability information can be carried in the S1 interface establishment response S1 SETUP RESPONSE signaling.

18. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, In the case where the core network includes the NR core network, the second capability information is carried in the NG interface establishment response NG SETUP RESPONSE signaling.

19. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The step of sending the second capability information to the base station includes: After establishing an interface with the base station, the second capability information is sent to the core network.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, In the case where the core network includes an E-UTRAN core network, the second capability information is carried in the core network configuration update (MME) signaling.

21. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, When the core network includes the NR core network, the second capability information is carried in the Access Mobility Management Function Configuration Update (AMF CONFIGURATION UPDATE) signaling.

22. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first capability information is also used to indicate the ability of other base stations connected to the base station to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal.

23. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The step of sending the first capability information to the terminal includes: Determine the third condition; The fourth capability information is determined based on the first capability information, wherein the fourth capability information is used to indicate the core network's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal under the third condition; The fourth capability information is sent to the terminal.

24. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The step of sending the first capability information to the terminal includes: Identify a target terminal that meets the second condition, wherein the second condition includes at least one of the following: the terminal has multiple SIM cards or the terminal supports multi-SIM card connection switching; The first capability information is sent to the target terminal.

25. A method for determining capability, characterized in that, Executed by the terminal, including: Receive capability information obtained by the first network-side device from the second network-side device; The capability information is used to determine the second network-side device's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal; wherein the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, and the multiple SIM cards include at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card; When the first network-side device includes a base station and the second network-side device includes a core network, the system determines, based on the capability information, the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal and a target core network that matches the capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; and attaches or registers with the target core network. When the first network-side device includes a core network and the second network-side device includes a base station, the system determines the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal and the target base station that matches the capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal based on the capability information; and performs camping or cell reselection at the target base station.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The multi-SIM card connection switching includes switching to the second SIM card for communication operations when the first SIM card is being used for communication operations.

27. A capability indication device, characterized in that, Includes one or more processors, the processors being configured to perform: The terminal sends first capability information to the core network so that it can determine a target core network whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and attach or register with the target core network; wherein, the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; the terminal is provided with multiple SIM cards, and the multiple SIM cards include at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card; The core network receives second capability information and sends the second capability information to the terminal, so that the terminal, based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, determines a target base station whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and camps or performs cell reselection at the target base station; wherein, the second capability information is used to instruct the core network on the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching. The capability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal includes at least one of the following: supporting multi-SIM card connection switching, supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card leaves the connected state.

28. A capability indication device, characterized in that, Includes one or more processors, the processors being configured to perform: The terminal sends second capability information to the base station so that it can determine a target base station whose support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching matches its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and then camps or performs cell reselection at the target base station; wherein, the second capability information is used to instruct the core network to support the terminal's multi-SIM card connection switching capability; the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, and the multiple SIM cards include at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card; The system receives first capability information sent by the base station and sends the first capability information to the terminal, so that the terminal, based on its own support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, determines a target core network that matches the terminal's support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching, and attaches or registers with the target core network; wherein, the first capability information is used to indicate the base station's support capability for the terminal to perform multi-SIM card connection switching. The capability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal includes at least one of the following: supporting multi-SIM card connection switching, supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card remains connected, and supporting multi-SIM card connection switching while the first SIM card leaves the connected state.

29. A capability determining device, characterized in that, Includes one or more processors, the processors being configured to perform: Receive capability information obtained by the first network-side device from the second network-side device; The capability information is used to determine the second network-side device's ability to support multi-SIM card connection switching for the terminal; wherein the terminal is equipped with multiple SIM cards, and the multiple SIM cards include at least a first SIM card and a second SIM card; When the first network-side device includes a base station and the second network-side device includes a core network, the system determines, based on the capability information, the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal and a target core network that matches the capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal; and attaches or registers with the target core network. When the first network-side device includes a core network and the second network-side device includes a base station, the system determines the support capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal and the target base station that matches the capability for multi-SIM card connection switching of the terminal based on the capability information; and performs camping or cell reselection at the target base station.

30. A communication device, characterized in that, include: processor; Memory used to store computer programs; When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the capability indication method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

31. A communication device, characterized in that, include: processor; Memory used to store computer programs; When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the capability indication method according to any one of claims 14 to 24.

32. A communication device, characterized in that, include: processor; Memory used to store computer programs; When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the capability determination method according to any one of claims 25 to 26.

33. A computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps in the capability indication method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

34. A computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the capability indication method according to any one of claims 14 to 24.

35. A computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the capability determination method according to any one of claims 25 to 26.

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