Apparatus, method and computer program

Abstract

An apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions for a network function. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving subscription information defining a range of a subscription, the subscription being for a network function service consumer to receive an event from a network function service producer, the event being associated with a communication device; and determining that the subscription to the network function service producer is to be established based on the subscription information.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This patent application claims priority to UK patent application No. 2211446.6 filed on August 5, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Public domain

[0004] The present disclosure relates to apparatus, methods and computer programs, and in particular but not limited to apparatus, methods and computer programs for network functionality. Background Art

[0005] A communication system may be viewed as a facility that enables communication sessions between two or more entities (such as communication devices, base stations, and / or other nodes) by providing carrier waves between the various entities involved in the communication path.

[0006] The communication system may be a wireless communication system. Examples of wireless systems include public land mobile networks (PLMNs) operating based on radio standards (such as those provided by 3GPP), satellite-based communication systems, and different wireless local area networks, such as wireless local area networks (WLANs). Wireless systems can typically be divided into cells and are therefore often referred to as cellular systems.

[0007] Communication systems and related equipment typically operate according to a given standard or specification that specifies what the various entities associated with the system are allowed to do and how it should be achieved. Communication protocols and / or parameters for the connection are also typically defined. An example of a standard is the so-called 5G standard. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to a first aspect, a device is provided, comprising: a component for receiving a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and a component for causing the network function producer to notify the network function consumer of the event.

[0009] The apparatus may include means for determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0010] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0011] The apparatus may include means for determining whether events are still to be provided to the network capability consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0012] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0013] The apparatus may include means for causing a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are no longer provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device that causes the scope of the subscription to no longer match.

[0014] The apparatus may include means for determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0015] The apparatus may include means for causing a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer upon determining that events are not provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0016] The apparatus may include means for determining whether a subscription of a network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0017] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0018] Determining whether the network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the independent non-public network, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falling within the scope of the subscription.

[0019] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0020] The apparatus may include means for causing a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0021] The apparatus may include means for causing the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, and for causing subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0022] The apparatus may include means for determining whether an event is to be provided to a network capability consumer in response to receiving a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0023] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0024] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0025] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0026] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0027] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more areas in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more areas in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0028] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0029] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0030] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0031] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0032] The apparatus may be provided in or at a network function producer.

[0033] According to a second aspect, a device is provided, comprising: a component for receiving a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and a component for determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on the above-mentioned subscription information.

[0034] The apparatus may be provided in or at a network function producer.

[0035] It will be appreciated that one or more of the features of the first described aspect may be used in combination with the second aspect.

[0036] According to a third aspect, a device is provided, comprising: a receiving circuit system configured to receive a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and a circuit system configured to cause the network function producer to notify the network function consumer of the event.

[0037] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription.

[0038] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0039] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine whether an event is still to be provided to a network capability consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0040] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0041] The apparatus may include circuitry that causes a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are no longer to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device that causes the scope of the subscription to no longer match.

[0042] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0043] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to cause a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer upon determining that an event is not to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0044] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine whether a subscription of a network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0045] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0046] Determining whether the network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the independent non-public network, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falling within the scope of the subscription.

[0047] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0048] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to, upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer, cause a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended.

[0049] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to cause the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, and to cause subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0050] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine, in response to receiving a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription, whether an event is to be provided to a network capability consumer.

[0051] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0052] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0053] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0054] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0055] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0056] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0057] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0058] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0059] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0060] The apparatus may be provided in or at a network function producer.

[0061] According to a fourth aspect, a device is provided, comprising: a circuit system configured to receive a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and a circuit system configured to determine whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on the above-mentioned subscription information.

[0062] The apparatus may be provided in or at a network function producer.

[0063] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the third aspect may be used in combination with the fourth aspect.

[0064] According to a fifth aspect, a device is provided, which includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the device to at least: receive a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and cause the event to be notified by the network function producer to the network function consumer.

[0065] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0066] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0067] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether events are still to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0068] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0069] The apparatus may be caused to cause a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are no longer to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device that causes the scope of the subscription to no longer match.

[0070] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0071] The apparatus may be caused to cause a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are not to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0072] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether a subscription of a network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0073] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0074] Determining whether the network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the independent non-public network, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falling within the scope of the subscription.

[0075] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0076] The apparatus may be caused to cause a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0077] The apparatus may be caused to cause the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, and to cause subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0078] The apparatus may be caused to determine, in response to receiving a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription, whether an event is to be provided to a network capability consumer.

[0079] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0080] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0081] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0082] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0083] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0084] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0085] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0086] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0087] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0088] The apparatus may be provided in or at a network function producer.

[0089] According to a sixth aspect, a device is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the device to at least: receive a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and determine whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on the above-mentioned subscription information.

[0090] The apparatus may be provided in or at a network function producer.

[0091] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the fifth aspect may be used in combination with the sixth aspect.

[0092] According to the seventh aspect, a method is provided, which includes: receiving a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function producer, the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and causing the event to be notified by the network function producer to the network function consumer.

[0093] The method may include determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0094] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0095] The method may include determining whether an event is still to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0096] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0097] The method may include causing a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are no longer provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device that causes the scope of the subscription to no longer match.

[0098] The method may include determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0099] The method may include causing a message indicating that the subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are not provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0100] The method may include determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0101] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0102] Determining whether the subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falls within the scope of the subscription.

[0103] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0104] The method may include, upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer, causing a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended.

[0105] The method may include: upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, causing the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer; and causing subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0106] The method may include determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer in response to receiving a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0107] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0108] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0109] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0110] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0111] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0112] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0113] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0114] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0115] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0116] The method may be performed by a device. The device may be provided in a network function producer or be a network function producer.

[0117] According to an eighth aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving, at a network function producer, subscription information that subscribes and defines the scope of the subscription, the subscription being for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, the event being associated with a communication device; and determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on the above subscription information.

[0118] The method may be performed by a device. The device may be provided in a network function producer or be a network function producer.

[0119] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the seventh aspect may be used in combination with the eighth aspect.

[0120] According to a ninth aspect, a device is provided, comprising: a receiving component for receiving a subscription at a network function and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from a network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and a determining component for determining that a subscription to the network function producer is to be established based on the subscription information.

[0121] The apparatus may include means for determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0122] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0123] The apparatus may include means for determining whether events are still to be provided to the network capability consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0124] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0125] The determining component may be used to determine whether an event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0126] The apparatus may include means for causing a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer upon determining that events are not provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0127] The determining component may be configured to determine whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0128] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0129] Determining whether the network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the independent non-public network, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falling within the scope of the subscription.

[0130] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0131] The apparatus may include means for causing a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0132] The determining component may be used to cancel a subscription upon determining that the subscription does not need to continue with the further network function producer.

[0133] The apparatus may include means for causing the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, and causing subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0134] The receiving component can be used to receive information at the network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a network function producer to receiving events from another network function producer, and the determining component can be used to determine whether the subscription is to continue with the other network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0135] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0136] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0137] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0138] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0139] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more areas in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more areas in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0140] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0141] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0142] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0143] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0144] The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0145] According to a tenth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a component for receiving information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a first network function producer to receiving events from a second network function producer, the events being associated with a communication device; and a component for determining whether the subscription is to continue with the second network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0146] The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0147] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the ninth aspect may be used in combination with the tenth aspect.

[0148] According to an eleventh aspect, a device is provided, comprising: a receiving circuit system configured to receive a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from a network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and a determining circuit system configured to determine, based on the subscription information, that a subscription to the network function producer is to be established.

[0149] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription.

[0150] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0151] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to determine whether an event is still to be provided to a network capability consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0152] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0153] The determining circuitry may be configured to determine whether an event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0154] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to cause a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer upon determining that an event is not to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0155] The determining circuitry may be configured to determine whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0156] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0157] Determining whether the subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falls within the scope of the subscription.

[0158] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0159] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to, upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer, cause a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended.

[0160] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to cancel a subscription upon determining that the subscription does not need to continue with the additional network capability producer.

[0161] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to, upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, cause the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer, and cause subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0162] The receiving circuit system can be configured to receive information at the network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a network function producer to receiving events from another network function producer, and the determining circuit system can be configured to determine whether the subscription is to continue with the other network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0163] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0164] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0165] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0166] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0167] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more areas in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more areas in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0168] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0169] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0170] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0171] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0172] The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0173] According to a twelfth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a receiving circuit system configured to receive information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a first network function producer to receiving events from a second network function producer, the events being associated with a communication device; and a determining circuit system configured to determine whether the subscription is to continue with the second network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0174] The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0175] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the eleventh aspect may be used in combination with the twelfth aspect.

[0176] According to the thirteenth aspect, a device is provided, which includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to at least: receive a subscription and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription at a network function, the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from a network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device; and determine based on the subscription information that a subscription to the network function producer is to be established.

[0177] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0178] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0179] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether events are still to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0180] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0181] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0182] The apparatus may be caused to cause a message indicating that a subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are not to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0183] The apparatus may be caused to determine whether a subscription of a network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0184] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0185] Determining whether the subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falls within the scope of the subscription.

[0186] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0187] The apparatus may be caused to cause a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0188] The apparatus may be caused to cancel a subscription upon determining that the subscription does not need to continue with the further network capability producer.

[0189] The apparatus may be caused to cause the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, and to cause subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0190] The apparatus may be caused to receive information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a network function producer to receiving events from another network function producer, and a determination component may be used to determine whether the subscription is to continue with the another network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0191] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0192] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0193] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0194] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0195] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0196] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0197] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0198] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0199] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0200] The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0201] According to a fourteenth aspect, there is an apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a first network function producer to receiving events from a second network function producer, the events being associated with a communication device; and determine whether the subscription is to continue with the second network function producer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0202] The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0203] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the thirteenth aspect may be used in combination with the fourteenth aspect.

[0204] According to the fifteenth aspect, a method is provided, comprising: receiving a subscription at a network function and subscription information defining the scope of the subscription, the subscription being for a network function consumer to receive an event from a network function producer, the event being associated with a communication device; and determining based on the subscription information that a subscription to the network function producer is to be established.

[0205] The method may include determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0206] Determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer may be based on whether a network function producer of the communication device matches a subscription scope.

[0207] The method may include determining whether an event is still to be provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0208] Changes associated with the communication device include one or more of: a change in location of the communication device; a change in a public land mobile network; a change in a network slice; and / or a change in an independent non-public network.

[0209] The method may include determining whether an event is to be provided to a network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0210] The method may include causing a message indicating that the subscription has ended to be sent to the network function consumer when it is determined that events are not provided to the network function consumer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0211] The method may include determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to a target network function producer, wherein the determination is based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0212] Determining whether a network function consumer's subscription is to be transferred to a target network function producer may be based on a public land mobile network identity, and / or an independent non-public network, and / or a region and / or zone of the target network function.

[0213] Determining whether the subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be based on the public land mobile network identity, and / or the region and / or zone of the target network function producer falls within the scope of the subscription.

[0214] Determining whether a subscription of the network function consumer is to be transferred to the target network function producer may be performed in response to the communication device moving from the network function producer to the target network function producer.

[0215] The method may include, upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer, causing a message to be sent to the network function consumer indicating that the subscription has ended.

[0216] The method may include canceling the subscription upon determining that the subscription does not need to continue with the further network capability producer.

[0217] The method may include: upon determining that the subscription is to be transferred to the target network function producer, causing the subscription to be transferred to the target network function producer; and causing subscription information defining a scope of the subscription to be provided to the target network function producer.

[0218] The method may include receiving information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a network function producer to receiving events from another network function producer, and a determination component may be used to determine whether the subscription is to continue with the other network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0219] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0220] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0221] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0222] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0223] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0224] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0225] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0226] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0227] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0228] The method may be provided by a device. The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0229] According to the sixteenth aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a first network function producer to receiving events from a second network function producer, the events being associated with a communication device; and determining whether the subscription is to continue with the second network function producer based on subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0230] The method may be provided by a device. The device may be provided in a network function or be a network function. The network function may not be a network function producer or a network function consumer.

[0231] It should be understood that one or more of the features of the fifteenth aspect may be used in combination with the sixteenth aspect.

[0232] According to a seventeenth aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising:

[0233] Means for subscribing to receive events associated with a communication device from a network function producer; and means for providing subscription information defining a scope of event provision.

[0234] The apparatus may include means for causing a message to be sent to create a subscription to receive events, the message comprising: subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0235] The apparatus may include means for receiving a message indicating that a subscription has ended upon determining that events are not provided based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0236] The apparatus may include means for receiving a message indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0237] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0238] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0239] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0240] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0241] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0242] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0243] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0244] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0245] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0246] The apparatus may be provided in or be a network function consumer.

[0247] According to an eighteenth aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising:

[0248] Circuitry configured to subscribe to receive events associated with a communication device from a network function producer; and circuitry configured to provide subscription information defining a scope of event provision.

[0249] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to cause a message to be sent to create a subscription to receive events, the message including subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0250] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to receive a message indicating that a subscription has ended upon determining that events are not provided based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0251] The apparatus may include circuitry configured to receive a message indicating that a subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0252] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0253] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0254] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0255] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0256] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0257] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0258] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0259] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0260] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0261] The apparatus may be provided in or be a network function consumer.

[0262] According to the nineteenth aspect, a device is provided, which includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to at least: subscribe to receive events associated with a communication device from a network function producer; and provide subscription information, which defines the scope of event provision.

[0263] The apparatus may be caused to cause a message to be sent to create a subscription to receive events, the message comprising: subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

[0264] The apparatus may be caused to receive a message indicating that a subscription has ended upon determining that events are not provided based on subscription information defining a scope of a subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0265] The apparatus may be caused to receive a message indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer.

[0266] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0267] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0268] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0269] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0270] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0271] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0272] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0273] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0274] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0275] The apparatus may be provided in or be a network function consumer.

[0276] According to a twentieth aspect, a method is provided, comprising: subscribing to receive events associated with a communication device from a network function producer; and providing subscription information, the subscription information defining a scope of event provision.

[0277] The method may comprise means for causing a message to be sent to create a subscription to receive events, the message comprising: subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0278] The method may include receiving a message indicating that the subscription has ended upon determining that events are not provided based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription when there is a change associated with the communication device.

[0279] The method may include, upon determining that the subscription does not need to be transferred to the target network function producer, receiving a message indicating that the subscription has ended.

[0280] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0281] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0282] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0283] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between independent non-public networks of the network function producer; information indicating that the subscription is limited to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or information indicating that the subscription applies to changes between public land mobile networks of the network function producer.

[0284] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more zones in which the subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event applies; and / or one or more tracking area identities in which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0285] The network function producer may include a network mobility management function or a network data function.

[0286] The network function producer may be the access and mobility management function.

[0287] Network function producers may include network data functions.

[0288] The network data function may be a network data analysis function or a data collection coordination function.

[0289] The method may be provided by a device. The device may be provided in a network function consumer or be a network function consumer.

[0290] According to another aspect, a computer program is provided, comprising instructions which, when executed by the apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform any of the previously listed methods.

[0291] According to another aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed, cause any of the previously listed methods to be performed.

[0292] According to one aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising computer executable code which, when executed, causes any of the previously listed methods to be performed.

[0293] According to one aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, on which program instructions are stored, and the program instructions are used to execute at least one of the above methods.

[0294] According to one aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, the non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions, which, when executed by the apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform any of the previously listed methods.

[0295] According to one aspect, a non-transitory computer readable medium is provided, the non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions which, when executed, cause any of the previously listed methods to be performed.

[0296] According to one aspect, a non-volatile tangible storage medium is provided, on which is stored program instructions for executing at least one of the above methods.

[0297] In the above, many different aspects have been described. It should be understood that other aspects can be provided by combining any two or more of the above aspects.

[0298] Various other aspects are also described in the following detailed description and appended claims.

[0299] List of abbreviations

[0300] 3GPP: Third Generation Partnership Project

[0301] AF: Application Function

[0302] AMF: Access and Mobility Management Function

[0303] AUSF: Authentication Server Function

[0304] CIoT: Community Internet of Things

[0305] DN: Data Network

[0306] gNB: gNodeB

[0307] HPLMN: Home PLMN

[0308] HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol

[0309] IE: Information Element

[0310] IoT: Internet of Things

[0311] JSON: JavaScript Object Notation

[0312] MS: Mobile Station

[0313] MTC: Machine Type Communication

[0314] NEF: Network Exposure Function

[0315] NF: Network Function

[0316] NC: NF service consumer

[0317] NFp: NF service producer

[0318] NWDAF: Network Data Analysis Function

[0319] PLMN: Public Land Mobile Network

[0320] RAM: Random Access Memory

[0321] (R)AN:(Radio) Access Network

[0322] ROM: Read Only Memory

[0323] SMF: Session Management Function

[0324] TS: Technical Specification

[0325] UPF: User Plane Function

[0326] UDM: Unified Data Management

[0327] UE: User Equipment

[0328] VPLMN: Visited PLMN

[0329] 3GPP: Third Generation Partnership Project

[0330] 5G: Fifth Generation

[0331] 5GC: 5G core network

[0332] 5GS: 5G System BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0333] Some example embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0334] Figure 1 A schematic representation of a 5G system is shown;

[0335] Figure 2 A schematic representation of the device is shown;

[0336] Figure 3 A schematic representation of a user equipment is shown;

[0337] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of the signal flow for establishing a subscription;

[0338] Figure 5 A schematic representation of the signal flow of some embodiments is shown, where this is a change on the producer side of the network function;

[0339] Figure 6 A schematic representation of the signal flow of some embodiments is shown, wherein an intermediate node is used to create a subscription;

[0340] Figure 7 A first method of some embodiments is shown;

[0341] Figure 8 A second method of some embodiments is shown;

[0342] Fig. 9 A third method of some embodiments is shown;

[0343] Fig.10 A fourth method of some embodiments is shown;

[0344] Fig.11 A fifth method of some embodiments is shown; and

[0345] Fig.12 A schematic representation of a non-volatile storage medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, enable the processor to perform Figures 7 to 11 One or more of the steps of any method in the method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0346] In the following, certain embodiments are explained with reference to a mobile communication device capable of communicating via a wireless cell system and a mobile communication system serving such a mobile communication device. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 Certain general principles of wireless communication systems, their access systems and mobile communication devices are briefly explained to help understand the technology behind the described examples.

[0347] Figure 1 A schematic representation of a 5G system (5GS) is shown. The 5GS may include a user equipment (UE), a (radio) access network ((R)AN), a 5G core network (5GC), one or more application functions (AFs), and one or more data networks (DNs).

[0348] The 5G(R)AN may include one or more gNodeB (gNB) distributed unit functions connected to one or more gNodeB (gNB) centralized unit functions.

[0349] 5GC may include access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), authentication server function (AUSF), user data management (UDM), user plane function (UPF), network data analysis function (NWDAF) and / or network exposure function (NEF).

[0350] In some embodiments, one or more network functions may be responsible for providing network analysis information upon request of one or more other network functions or devices within the network. A network function may subscribe to other network functions to receive information therefrom. Thus, a network function may be configured to receive and store network information from one or more network functions or devices within the network. Data collection by the network may be performed based on at least one subscription to an event provided by at least one other network function.

[0351] Figure 2 An example of an apparatus 200 is illustrated. The apparatus may be provided in a network function. The network function may be an intermediate network function, a network function consumer, or a network function producer. The apparatus may have at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes one or more functions to be executed. In this example, the apparatus may include at least one random access memory (RAM) 211a, and / or at least one read-only memory (ROM) 211b, and / or at least one processor 212, 213, and / or an input / output interface 214. At least one processor 212, 213 may be coupled to RAM 211a and ROM 211b. At least one processor 212, 213 may be configured to execute appropriate software code 215. Software code 215, for example, may allow execution of one or more steps to perform one or more aspects of this aspect. The apparatus may be provided in one or more network functions.

[0352] Figure 3 An example of a communication device 300 is shown, such as Figure 1 UE shown. The communication device 300 can be provided by any device capable of sending and receiving radio signals. Non-limiting examples include user equipment, mobile stations (MS) or mobile devices (such as mobile phones or so-called "smart phones"), computers equipped with wireless interface cards or other wireless interface facilities (such as USB dongles), personal data assistants (PDAs) or tablets equipped with wireless communication capabilities, machine type communication (MTC) devices, cell Internet of Things (CIoT) devices, or any combination of these devices, etc. The communication device 300 can provide, for example, communication for carrying data for communication. The communication can be one or more of voice, electronic mail (email), text messaging, multimedia, data, machine data, etc.

[0353] The communication device 300 may receive signals over the air or radio interface 307 via suitable means for receiving, and may transmit signals via suitable means for transmitting radio signals. Figure 3In the mobile device, the transceiver arrangement is schematically represented by a block 306. The transceiver arrangement 306 may be provided, for example, by a radio component and an associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement may be arranged internally or externally to the mobile device.

[0354] The communication device 300 may be equipped with at least one processor 301, and / or at least one memory ROM 302a, and / or at least one RAM 302b, and / or other possible components 303 for software and hardware assisted execution of the tasks it is designed to perform, including controlling access and communication to access systems and other communication devices. The at least one processor 301 is coupled to the RAM 302b and the ROM 302a. The at least one processor 301 may be configured to execute appropriate software code 308. The software code 308 may, for example, allow execution of one or more aspects of the present aspect. The software code 308 may be stored in the ROM 302a.

[0355] The processor, storage means and other related control means may be provided on an appropriate circuit board and / or in a chipset.This feature is indicated by reference numeral 304.

[0356] The communication device may optionally have a user interface, such as a keyboard 305, a touch sensitive screen or touch pad, a combination thereof, etc. Depending on the type of communication device, one or more of a display, a speaker and a microphone may optionally be provided.

[0357] In the following examples, reference will be made to a UE as an example of a communication device. It should be noted that this is only an example, and any other suitable communication device may be used in the embodiments.

[0358] Current 3GPP specifications and proposals enable service consumers to subscribe to notifications of events from service producers. These subscriptions may be mediated by intermediate network nodes such as UDM or Data Collection and Coordination Function (DCCF).

[0359] NFc (NF service consumer) can subscribe to NFp (NF service producer) to be notified of certain events detected by NFp. NFc achieves this by creating an event subscription to NFp. When a subscription is created, when the subscribed event occurs, NFp sends an event notification to the subscribed NFc.

[0360] The intermediate network function may mediate between the network function service consumer and the network function service producer. Alternatively, there may be a direct subscription from the NF service consumer to the NF service producer (ie, a subscription not mediated by an intermediate network function).

[0361] In some 3GPP specifications, during inter-AMF mobility of a UE, the subscription created in the source AMF is moved to the target AMF along with the UE context, and the target AMF continues to report the subscribed events to the NFc.

[0362] Inter-PLMN AMF to AMF mobility of the UE is possible. The UE can be in idle mode or connected mode. In other words, the UE can be handed over from one AMF to another AMM in a different PLMN. This may be due to the mobility of the UE.

[0363] The NFc subscription object created at the AMF is stored in the UE context. The NFc can be any suitable NFC, such as UDM, NEF, NWDAF, etc. The subscription object is transferred from AMF1 (e.g. PLMN1 or Region 1 of the HPLMN) to AMF2 (e.g. PLMN2 or Region 2 of the HPLMN).

[0364] 3GPP standard TS29.518 defines the data type of UE context, which includes an event subscription list. The following is extracted from Table 6.1.6.2.25-1 in TS29.518: Definition of UE context type.

[0365]

[0366]

[0367] In 3GPP standard TS29.518, when there is a UE context transfer from a source AMF to a target, if an event subscription exists at the source AMF, the event subscription is always transferred to the target AMF as part of the context transfer.

[0368] refer to Figure 4 In this example, the NFc (e.g. via NEF, NWDAF or AF of UDM) creates a subscription at AMF-A (e.g. for UE location reporting). If the user moves from AMF-A / PLMN-A to AMF-B / PLMN-B, the current NF consumer has no available option to inform AMF-A that the subscription should not be transferred to AMF-B / PLMN-B.

[0369] Therefore, according to the current proposal, AMF-A always transfers the subscription to AMF-B, regardless of whether NFc is willing or needs to receive notification from AMF-B that it may be in PLMN-B.

[0370] An example is that NFc does not want to receive notifications from NFp after the UE has moved to a different PLMN, as shown below: NWDAF in HPLMN wants to collect UE's data from HPLMN, but NWDAQ in 3GPP Rel-17 may not support roaming or may not collect data from VPLMN. When NWDAF(PLMN1) subscribes to AMF1(PLMN1) for continuous UE location reports, if the UE moves to AMF2 / PLMN2, then according to the existing proposal, NWDAF will start receiving notifications from VPLMN.

[0371] Therefore, the current proposal does not determine whether a subscription created at a source NF (e.g., source AMF) should be transferred to a target NF (e.g., target AMF) upon an inter-NF (e.g., inter-AMF) context transfer (e.g., inter-AMF mobility of a UE). For example, this may result in the target NF sending a notification to NFc, where NFc is not interested in inter-PLMN data.

[0372] Another scenario of the existing proposal is as follows. The same NFp (e.g., AMF) can serve multiple PLMNs (e.g., when network sharing is used) or areas / regions. In this case, when the NFp starts to serve the UE via a different PLMN or area / region (e.g., when the UE will re-register with the AMF for a different PLMN), the NFp can also continue to send notifications to the NFc. Therefore, problems may also occur in the intra-frame NF (e.g., intra-frame AMF) scenario.

[0373] Another scenario of the existing proposal is as follows. NFc (e.g., NEF) may subscribe to events produced by NFp via an intermediate NF (e.g., UDM). In this case, NFc may not know whether the NFp (e.g., AMF) currently serving the UE is located in the same PLMN (e.g., HPLMN) as the NFc or in a different PLMN. This may cause the intermediate NF (on behalf of NFc) to subscribe to the NFp (e.g., AMF) currently serving the UE, which is located in a PLMN (or area / region) different from the PLMN of NFc. This may cause the NFc to start receiving notifications from, for example, a VPLMN when the NFc only wants to receive notifications from the HPLMN. Therefore, the current proposal may lack a mechanism to enable the intermediate NF to determine whether it should (on behalf of NFc) subscribe to the NFp based on the PLMN identity (or area / region) served by the NFp.

[0374] Other examples in the current proposal are NWDAF to NWDAF handover and DCCF to DCCF handover. Similar problems to those described above may also occur in these handovers.

[0375] Some embodiments may provide a subscription scope. NFc may signal the subscription scope to NFp or to an intermediate NF during subscription creation. The subscription scope may be an extension of the subscription information, as described above, or the subscription scope may be provided separately.

[0376] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription of the network function consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

[0377] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

[0378] The subscription information defining the scope of the subscription may define one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

[0379] The subscription information that defines the scope of the subscription can define one or more of the following:

[0380] information indicating whether the subscription applies when the communication device is roaming and / or not roaming;

[0381] Information indicating that the subscription is restricted to changes within the public land mobile network of the network function producer;

[0382] Indicates subscription to independent non-public inter-network changes applicable to the network function producer;

[0383] Information indicating that the subscription is restricted to changes within the independent non-public network of the network function producer; and / or

[0384] Information indicating subscription to changes between public land mobile networks applicable to the network function producer.

[0385] The subscription information that defines the scope of the subscription can define one or more of the following:

[0386] one or more conditions indicating whether a subscription to an event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network;

[0387] one or more public land mobile networks to which the subscription to the event applies;

[0388] one or more public land mobile networks in which the subscription to the event is not applicable;

[0389] One or more independent non-public networks to which subscriptions to events apply;

[0390] One or more independent non-public networks in which subscription to events is not applicable;

[0391] The network slice or slices to which the subscription to the event applies;

[0392] One or more network slices for which the subscription to the event is not applicable;

[0393] The zone or zones to which the subscription to the event applies;

[0394] One or more zones in which the subscription to the event does not apply;

[0395] one or more tracking area identities to which the subscription to the event applies; and

[0396] One or more tracking zone identities for which the subscription to the event is not applicable.

[0397] For example, a subscription scope can include any one or more of the following:

[0398] - an indication of whether the subscription applies when the UE is roaming and / or not roaming. For example, this can be used to indicate that the subscription scope is limited to when the UE is not roaming, i.e. when the UE is in its HPLMN;

[0399] -Indication of whether the subscription applies to intra-PLMN and / or inter-PLMN mobility. For example,

[0400] This can be used to indicate that the scope of the subscription is limited to changes within the PLMN where the NFp exists;

[0401] - List of allowed PLMN IDs and / or list of not allowed PLMN IDs, i.e., subscriptions in

[0402] A list of PLMNs that are applicable (or not applicable);

[0403] - A list of areas / zones in which the subscription is applicable (and / or not applicable, for example, large PLMNs operated by different operator organizations in different regions). This can be defined by a zone list. A zone list may include allowed TAIs and / or not allowed TAIs; and - an allowed network slice list and / or a not allowed network slice list.

[0404] In some embodiments, the NFp (e.g., source AMF) determines based on the new subscription scope information whether it should transfer the subscription to the target NFp (e.g., target AMF) during a NFp change (e.g., inter-AMF mobility), and whether it should continue to send notifications when the NF starts serving the UE for a different PLMN (or area / region) (even if the NFp has not changed).

[0405] In some embodiments, the intermediate NF (e.g., UDM) determines whether it should (on behalf of NFc) subscribe to the NFp (e.g., AMF) currently serving the UE based on the PLMN ID (or area / region) of the NFp based on the new subscription scope information.

[0406] refer to Figure 5 , which shows an example of a change of AMF from a first AMF1 to a second AMF2. The first AMF1 is associated with a first PLMN1, and the second AMF2 is associated with a second PLMN2.

[0407] As indicated by reference numeral 1, NFc1 creates a subscription at AMF1 / PLMN1. NFc1 provides a subscription scope for the first AMF1.

[0408] NFc2 creates a subscription at AMF1 / PLMN1 as shown at 2. NFcr2 provides the subscription scope for the first AMF1.

[0409] The subscription scope may be provided by the NFc entity to the AMF in any suitable manner.

[0410] For example, the subscription scope information may be signaled as part of an HTTP custom header. Where this embodiment is provided in a 5G system, the header may be as defined in TS 29.500.

[0411] The subscription scope information may be signaled via a property within the HTTP message payload. In the latter case, the property may be encoded as a JSON attribute.

[0412] The scope of a subscription can include any of the information discussed previously.

[0413] The source AMF (AMF1) will store the subscription scope for each request, i.e. for each subscription.

[0414] As indicated by reference numeral 3, the UE moves from AMF1 / PLMN1 to AMF2 / PLMN2. The subscription event may need to be transferred from AMF1 to AMF2. Therefore, as indicated by reference numeral 4, the first AMF1 should determine whether to transfer the subscription to the target AMF2 based on, for example, the subscription scope and PLMNID (or area / region) of the target AMF. The first AMF may check whether the subscription scope matches or fits the second AMF2. When determining that the subscription is to be transferred, the AMF may check one, more or all of the parameters of the subscription scope.

[0415] For example, if the subscription scope indicates that the subscription is applicable / permitted for use in the target PLMN, then Figure 5 As shown in the figure 6 in the figure, the first AMF1 transfers the subscription to the target AMF2. In the case where AMF1 transfers the subscription to AMF-2, the first AMF1 can provide a subscription scope for each subscription so that AMF2 can handle the subscription appropriately, for example during later mobility from AMF2 to another AMF.

[0416] However, if the subscription scope limits the applicability of the UE not subscribed when roaming, the first AMF1 will not go to AMF2 (VPLMN) (see additional steps).

[0417] For example, if the subscription scope indicates that the subscription is not applicable / permitted for use in the target PLMN, then Figure 5 As shown in the reference numeral 5 in the figure, the first AMF1 will not transfer the subscription to the target AMF2. The first AMF1 may send an event notification to one or more NFcs to indicate that the subscription is terminated because the UE has moved to an NFp that is out of / does not match the subscription scope. This may be because the target AMF has, for example, a different PLMN and / or a different network slice than those indicated in the subscription scope.

[0418] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the NFc1 subscription scope is "Intra-PLMN" and the NFc2 subscription scope is "Inter-PLMN". In this example, the NFc2 subscription is transferred to a target AMF-2 located in a different PLMN, and the first AMF1 sends a notification to NFc1 that the UE has moved out of the active area.

[0419] In the previous examples, a subscription context transfer has been described where the source NFc and the target NFc are AMFs. It should be understood that the embodiments may be used with any other suitable source and target NFcs. For example, the NFc may be a mobility support network function. In other embodiments, the NFc may be a NWDAF and / or a DCCF. The source NFc and the target NFc may be the same type of entity or different types of entities.

[0420] refer to Figure 6 , which shows an example of creating a subscription via an intermediate NF.

[0421] For events created via UDM (eg, by NEF), the same principles apply.

[0422] like Figure 6 As shown by reference numeral 1 in the figure, NFc1 provides a subscription scope for UDM.

[0423] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure 2a in the figure, the UDM uses the subscription scope to determine whether the NFp (e.g., AMF) currently serving the UE matches the subscription scope, and if it does, the UDM creates a subscription to the NFp on behalf of the NFc. Otherwise, the UDM does not create the subscription. However, if the UE moves back to an AMF that satisfies the subscription scope, the UDM may create the subscription later. For example, this may happen when the UE moves back to the AMF of its HPLMN (i.e., moves back to a NFp that matches the subscription scope).

[0424] When creating a subscription in NFp on behalf of NFc, UDM may provide the subscription scope to AMF. UDM may use the subscription scope and inform AMF of the subscription scope.

[0425] Alternatively, when creating a subscription in NFp on behalf of NFc, UDM does not provide the subscription scope to AMF. UDM can consume the subscription scope without further notifying AMF of the subscription scope.

[0426] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure 2b, the first AMF1 is notified of the subscription and optionally of the subscription scope.

[0427] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure 3, when the UE moves from AMF1 / PLMN1 to AMF2 / PLMN2, if AMF1 does not receive the subscription scope, or if it does not support these enhancements (e.g., traditional AMF implementation), AMF1 transfers the subscription to AMF2.

[0428] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure 4, the UDM receives the subscription change notification. This may comply with the current 3GPP specification.

[0429] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure mark 5, if the new AMF does not match the subscription scope, the UDM can decide to cancel the subscription or continue the subscription.

[0430] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure mark 6, the UDM will notify the second AMF2 to cancel the notification subscription.

[0431] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure mark 7, UDM will notify NFc to be notified that the UE has moved out of the subscription range.

[0432] In some embodiments, if the UDM does not forward the subscription scope to AMF1, or if AMF1 does not support these enhancements, then within a short time (because AMF2 is not aware of the subscription scope), the second AMF2 can send data to NFc (between steps 4 and 6).

[0433] In some embodiments where NFc creates the subscription directly (not via UDM), NFc may cancel the subscription on its own when UE mobility causes NFp to be out of the subscription range.

[0434] Some embodiments may have the advantage of avoiding unnecessary subscription transfers. For example, this may be the case if there is a transfer from one PLMN to another PLMN.

[0435] Some embodiments may ensure that the target NFc only receives notifications of events that the NFc is interested in.

[0436] In one modification, alternatively or additionally, the source NFc may transfer subscriptions and subscription scopes to the target NFc. The target NFc will decide which subscriptions are still applicable based on the subscription scope.

[0437] refer to Figure 7 , which illustrates a first method of some embodiments.

[0438] The method may be performed by a device. The device may be in or at a network function producer.

[0439] The apparatus may comprise suitable circuitry for providing the method.

[0440] Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least provide the following method.

[0441] Alternatively or additionally, the device may be as described with respect to Figure 2 shown.

[0442] The method may be provided by computer program code or computer executable instructions.

[0443] The method may include: as shown in reference numeral S1 , receiving a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, and the event is associated with a communication device.

[0444] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral S2, causing the event to be notified to a network function consumer.

[0445] refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 A second method of some embodiments is shown.

[0446] The method may be performed by a device. The device may be in or at a network function producer.

[0447] The apparatus may comprise suitable circuitry for providing the method.

[0448] Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least provide the following method.

[0449] Alternatively or additionally, the device may be as described with respect to Figure 2 shown.

[0450] The method may be provided by computer program code or computer executable instructions.

[0451] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral T1 , receiving a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription at a network function producer, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from the network function producer, the event being associated with a communication device.

[0452] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral T2, determining whether the event is to be provided to the network function consumer based on the subscription information.

[0453] refer to Fig. 9 , which illustrates a third method of some embodiments.

[0454] The method may be performed by an apparatus. The apparatus may be in or be a network function. This may be an intermediate network function.

[0455] The apparatus may comprise suitable circuitry for providing the method.

[0456] Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least provide the following method.

[0457] Alternatively or additionally, the device may be as described with respect to Figure 2 shown.

[0458] The method may be provided by computer program code or computer executable instructions.

[0459] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral A1 , receiving, at a network function, a subscription and subscription information defining a scope of the subscription, wherein the subscription is for a network function consumer to receive an event from a network function producer, the event being associated with a communication device.

[0460] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral A2, determining based on the subscription information that a subscription to the network function producer is to be established.

[0461] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.10 A fourth method of some embodiments is shown.

[0462] The method may be performed by an apparatus. The apparatus may be in or be a network function. This may be an intermediate network function.

[0463] The apparatus may comprise suitable circuitry for providing the method.

[0464] Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least provide the following method.

[0465] Alternatively or additionally, the device may be as described with respect to Figure 2 shown.

[0466] The method may be provided by computer program code or computer executable instructions.

[0467] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral B1, receiving information at a network function indicating that a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from a first network function producer to receiving events from a second network function producer, the events being associated with a communication device.

[0468] The method may include, as indicated by reference numeral B2, determining whether the subscription is to continue with the second network function producer based on subscription information defining a scope of the subscription.

[0469] refer to Fig.11 , which illustrates a fourth method of some embodiments.

[0470] The method may be performed by a device. The device may be in a network function consumer or be a network function consumer.

[0471] The apparatus may comprise suitable circuitry for providing the method.

[0472] Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least provide the following method.

[0473] Alternatively or additionally, the device may be as described with respect to Figure 2 shown.

[0474] The method may be provided by computer program code or computer executable instructions.

[0475] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral C1 , subscribing to receive events associated with the communication device from a network function producer.

[0476] The method may include: as indicated by reference numeral C2, providing subscription information, the subscription information defining a scope of event provision.

[0477] It should be understood that Figures 7 to 11 The methods outlined in may be modified to include any of the previously described features.

[0478] Fig.12 A schematic representation of a non-volatile storage medium 900a or 900b storing instructions and / or parameters that, when executed by a processor, allow the processor to perform Figures 7 to 11 The non-volatile storage medium may be a computer disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD) schematically labeled 900a, or a universal serial bus (USB) memory stick schematically labeled 900b. The computer instructions or code may be downloaded and stored in one or more memories. The storage medium may store instructions and / or parameters 902 that, when executed by a processor, allow the processor to perform Figures 7 to 11 One or more of the steps of the method.

[0479] The computer program code may be downloaded and stored in one or more memories of the device.

[0480] It should be noted that while the above describes exemplifying embodiments, there are numerous variations and modifications which may be made to the disclosed solution without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0481] It will be appreciated that while the concepts described above are discussed in the context of 5GS, one or more of these concepts may be applied to other cell systems.

[0482] As used herein, “at least one of: ” and “at least one of >” and similar expressions (wherein a list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”) refer to at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements.

[0483] Therefore, these embodiments may vary within the scope of the appended claims. In general, some embodiments may be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuits, software, logic, or any combination thereof. For example, some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software that may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. Although various embodiments may be illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other graphical representations, it is well understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuits or logic, general hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0484] These embodiments may be implemented by computer software stored in a memory and executable by at least one data processor of the entity involved, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. Furthermore, in this regard, it should be noted that any process (e.g. Figures 7 to 11 The software may be stored on physical media such as memory chips or memory blocks implemented within a processor, magnetic media such as hard disks or floppy disks, and optical media such as DVDs and their data variants, CDs. Physical media are non-transitory media.

[0485] The term "non-transitory" as used herein is a restriction on the medium itself (ie, tangible, not a signal), not on the persistence of data storage (eg, RAM vs. ROM).

[0486] The memory may be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. The data processor may be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and may include, as non-limiting examples, one or more of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a gate-level circuit, and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture.

[0487] Alternatively or additionally, some embodiments may be implemented using a circuit system. The circuit system may be configured to perform one or more of the previously described functions and / or method steps. The circuit system may be provided in a base station and / or a communication device.

[0488] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0489] (a) Pure hardware circuit implementation (such as an implementation using only analog and / or digital circuit systems)

[0490] now);

[0491] (b) A combination of hardware circuits and software, such as:

[0492] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and

[0493] (ii) any portion of hardware processor(s) (including digital signal processor(s)) with software, software and memory(s) that work together to cause an apparatus (such as a communication device or base station) to perform the various functions previously described;

[0494] as well as

[0495] (c) Hardware circuit(s) and / or processor(s), such as microprocessor(s) or portion(s) of microprocessor(s), that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but the software may be absent when not required for operation.

[0496] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As another example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or a portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example, an integrated device.

[0497] The foregoing description provides a complete and informative description of some embodiments by way of exemplary and non-limiting examples. However, various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the above description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. However, all such and similar modifications to the teachings will still fall within the scope defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions for network functions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: Receiving subscription information defining a scope of a subscription, the subscription being for a network function service consumer to receive an event from a network function service producer, the event being associated with a communication device; as well as A determination is made based on the subscription information that the subscription to the network function service producer is to be established.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving information indicating that the subscription for receiving events for the network function service consumer is changing from receiving events from the network function service producer to receiving events from another network function producer; and Based on the subscription information defining the scope of the subscription, it is determined that the subscription is to continue with the further network function service producer.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: Upon determining that the subscription will not continue with the additional network function service producer, cancellation of the subscription is caused.

4. A device comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions for a network function consumer, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: subscribing to receive events associated with the communication device from a network function service producer; as well as Subscription information is provided, which defines the scope of event provision.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the providing comprises: A message is sent to create a subscription to receive the event, the message comprising: the subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

6. An apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more conditions, and the one or more conditions indicate whether the subscription of the network function service consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

7. An apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more conditions, the one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

8. An apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more conditions, and the one or more conditions indicate whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming; information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is restricted to changes within a public land mobile network of a network function service producer; information indicating that the subscription is applicable to a change between public land mobile networks of a network function service producer; Information indicating that the subscription applies to independent non-public inter-network changes of the network function service producer; or Information indicating that the subscription is restricted to changes within an independent non-public network of a network function service producer.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to an event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of a home public land mobile network and a visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which said subscription to events applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which said subscription to events is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which said subscription to events applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which said subscription to events is not applicable; the one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which said subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to events applies; one or more zones in which said subscription to events is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which said subscription to events applies; or One or more tracking area identities for which said subscription to events is not applicable.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the network function producer comprises: Network mobility management functions or network data functions.

12. A method comprising: receiving, at a network function, subscription information defining a scope of a subscription for a network function consumer to receive events from a network function producer, the events being associated with a communication device; as well as At the network function, it is determined based on the subscription information that the subscription to the network function producer is to be established.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: receiving, at the network function, information indicating that the subscription for the network function consumer to receive events is changing from receiving events from the network function producer to receiving events from another network function producer; as well as At the network function, based on the subscription information defining the scope of the subscription, it is determined that the subscription is to continue with the further network function producer.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: Cancellation of the subscription is caused by the network function upon determining that the subscription will not continue with the further network function producer.

15. A method comprising: subscribing to receive events associated with the communication device from the network function producer; as well as Subscription information is provided, which defines the scope of event provision.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the providing comprises: A message is sent to create a subscription to receive the event, the message comprising: the subscription information defining the scope of the subscription.

17. A method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more conditions, and the one or more conditions indicate whether the subscription of the network function service consumer to the event continues to apply when the network function producer changes.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to events continues to apply when the location of the communication device changes.

19. A method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more conditions, and the one or more conditions indicate whether the subscription to the event continues to apply when the communication device changes from one public land mobile network or independent non-public network to another public land mobile network or independent non-public network.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more of the following: information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is roaming; information indicating whether the subscription is applicable when the communication device is not roaming; information indicating that the subscription is restricted to changes within a public land mobile network of a network function service producer; information indicating that the subscription is applicable to a change between public land mobile networks of a network function service producer; Information indicating that the subscription applies to independent non-public inter-network changes of the network function service producer; or Information indicating that the subscription is restricted to changes within an independent non-public network of a network function service producer.

21. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the subscription information defining the scope of event provision defines one or more of the following: one or more conditions indicating whether the subscription to an event continues to apply when the communication device roams from one of a home public land mobile network and a visited public land mobile network to the other of the home public land mobile network and the visited public land mobile network; one or more public land mobile networks in which said subscription to events applies; one or more public land mobile networks in which said subscription to events is not applicable; one or more independent non-public networks in which said subscription to events applies; one or more independent non-public networks in which said subscription to events is not applicable; the one or more network slices in which the subscription to the event applies; one or more network slices in which said subscription to the event is not applicable; one or more zones in which the subscription to events applies; one or more zones in which said subscription to events is not applicable; one or more tracking area identities in which said subscription to events applies; or One or more tracking area identities for which said subscription to events is not applicable.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the network function producer comprises: Network mobility management functions or network data functions.

23. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the method according to any one of claims 12 to 22.

24. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of claims 12 to 22.

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