Method, apparatus and computer program

Abstract

There is provided an apparatus comprising means for receiving, from a network function, first information relating to a first area in which a first network slice is supported, where the first area is included within a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment. The apparatus further comprises means for determining whether to trigger registration based on the first information when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to methods, apparatus and computer programs for wireless communication systems. Background Art

[0002] A communication system may be a facility that enables communication sessions between two or more entities (such as user terminals, base stations / access points, and / or other nodes) by providing a bearer between the various entities involved in the communication path. A communication system may be provided, for example, by means of a communication network and one or more compatible communication devices. A communication session may include, for example, data communications for carrying communications (such as voice, electronic mail (email), text messages, multimedia, and / or content data). Non-limiting examples of the services provided include two-way or multi-way calls, data communications or multimedia services, and access to data network systems (such as the Internet). Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a component for receiving first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported from a network function, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and a component for determining whether to trigger registration based on the first information when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

[0004] In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0005] In one example, the identification of the first area is a cell identifier that is linked to the identification of the first network slice.

[0006] In one example, the first network slice is partially supported within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0007] In one example, the user equipment is camping in the first area when receiving the first information.

[0008] In one example, the means for determining includes: means for determining whether to trigger registration using the first information; and means for providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that registration is triggered.

[0009] In one example, the component for determining includes: a component for determining whether the second cell supports the first network slice based on the first information when the user equipment moves from the first cell of the first area to the second cell of the second area; and a component for providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the second cell does not support the first network slice.

[0010] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is a first cell, and the second area is a second cell.

[0011] In one example, the first information includes at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within a registration area that supports the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell includes a cell in which the user equipment is residing.

[0012] In one example, the first information includes at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area where the first network slice is not supported, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

[0013] In one example, the apparatus includes a component for receiving allowed network slice assistance information, wherein the allowed network slice assistance information includes single network slice assistance information associated with a first network slice.

[0014] In one example, single network slice assistance information for the first network slice received in the allowed NSSAI is received as part of the first information.

[0015] In one example, the first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information received in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

[0016] In one example, the first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

[0017] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0018] In one example, at least one cell of the first area and at least one other cell of the second area are different.

[0019] In one example, the means for determining includes means for providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the user equipment has moved out of the first area and based on the received update indicator.

[0020] In one example, the first information is included in one of the following: a registration acceptance message, a user equipment configuration update message.

[0021] In one example, the apparatus includes a component for providing a registration request message indicating a first network slice to a network function, wherein the first information is received in response to the registration request message.

[0022] In one example, the registration accept message includes an allowed NSSAI including second information having a second network slice supported in all cells of the registration area.

[0023] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is a first cell of a registration area, and the second area is a second cell of the registration area.

[0024] In one example, the apparatus includes: a component for providing a support indication to a network function in a registration request message, wherein the support indication indicates that the user equipment supports receiving the first information.

[0025] In one example, one of: the apparatus is for a user equipment, the apparatus is included in a user equipment, and the apparatus is a user equipment.

[0026] According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a component for determining, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and a component for providing first information indicating the first area in which the first network slice is supported to the user equipment.

[0027] In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0028] In one example, the identification of the first area is a cell identifier that is linked to the identification of the first network slice.

[0029] In one example, the first network slice is partially supported within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0030] In one example, the first information is provided to the user equipment when the user equipment resides in the first area.

[0031] In one example, the apparatus includes means for receiving a registration request message from a user equipment when the user equipment has moved to a second area, wherein the second area is remote from the first area.

[0032] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area is at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0033] In one example, the first information includes at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within a registration area that supports the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell includes a cell in which the user equipment is residing.

[0034] In one example, the first information includes at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area where the first network slice is not supported, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

[0035] In one example, the apparatus includes a component for providing allowed network slice selection assistance information, wherein the allowed network slice selection assistance information includes single network slice assistance information associated with a first network slice.

[0036] In one example, single network slice assistance information for the first network slice received in the allowed NSSAI is received as part of the first information.

[0037] In one example, the first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information provided in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

[0038] In one example, the first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

[0039] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0040] In one example, at least one cell of the first area and at least one other cell of the second area are different.

[0041] In one example, the apparatus includes a component for providing network slice assistance information indicating partial rejection of a first network slice to a user equipment when the user equipment is located in a second area of a registration area.

[0042] In one example, the first information is provided in one of: a registration accept message, a user equipment configuration update message.

[0043] In one example, the apparatus includes a component for receiving a registration request message indicating a first network slice from a user equipment.

[0044] In one example, the apparatus includes means for providing an allowed NSSAI, wherein the allowed NSSAI includes second information having a second network slice supported in all cells of a registration area.

[0045] In one example, the apparatus includes: a component for receiving a support indication from a user equipment indicating that the user equipment supports receiving first information; and a component for providing the first information based on the received support indication.

[0046] In one example, one of: the apparatus is for a network function, the apparatus is included in a network function, and the apparatus is a network function.

[0047] According to one aspect, a device is provided, comprising: at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the device to perform: receiving first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported from a network function, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area, determining whether to trigger registration based on the first information.

[0048] In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0049] In one example, the identification of the first area is a cell identifier that is linked to the identification of the first network slice.

[0050] In one example, the first network slice is partially supported within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0051] In one example, the user equipment is camping in the first area when receiving the first information.

[0052] In one example, the determining includes: determining whether to trigger registration using the first information; and providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that registration is triggered.

[0053] In one example, the determination includes: when the user equipment moves from a first cell in a first area to a second cell in a second area, determining whether the second cell supports the first network slice based on the first information; and in response to determining that the second cell does not support the first network slice, providing a registration request message to the network function.

[0054] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is a first cell, and the second area is a second cell.

[0055] In one example, the first information includes at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within a registration area that supports the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell includes a cell in which the user equipment is residing.

[0056] In one example, the first information includes at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area where the first network slice is not supported, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

[0057] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: receiving allowed network slice assistance information, the allowed network slice assistance information comprising single network slice assistance information associated with a first network slice.

[0058] In one example, single network slice assistance information for the first network slice received in the allowed NSSAI is received as part of the first information.

[0059] In one example, the first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information received in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

[0060] In one example, the first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

[0061] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0062] In one example, at least one cell of the first area and at least one other cell of the second area are different.

[0063] In one example, the determining includes providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the user equipment has moved out of the first area and based on the received update indicator.

[0064] In one example, the first information is included in one of the following: a registration acceptance message, a user equipment configuration update message.

[0065] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: providing a registration request message indicating a first network slice to a network function, wherein the first information is received in response to the registration request message.

[0066] In one example, the registration accept message includes an allowed NSSAI including second information having a second network slice supported in all cells of the registration area.

[0067] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is a first cell of a registration area, and the second area is a second cell of the registration area.

[0068] In one example, the apparatus is caused to execute: providing a support indication to a network function in a registration request message, where the support indication indicates that the user equipment supports receiving the first information.

[0069] In one example, one of: the apparatus is for a user equipment, the apparatus is included in a user equipment, and the apparatus is a user equipment.

[0070] According to one aspect, a device is provided, comprising: at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the device to perform: determining, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and providing first information to the user equipment indicating the first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0071] In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0072] In one example, the identification of the first area is a cell identifier that is linked to the identification of the first network slice.

[0073] In one example, the first network slice is partially supported within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0074] In one example, the first information is provided to the user equipment when the user equipment resides in the first area.

[0075] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: receiving a registration request message from the user equipment when the user equipment has moved to a second area, the second area being away from the first area.

[0076] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area is at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0077] In one example, the first information includes at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within a registration area that supports the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell includes a cell in which the user equipment is residing.

[0078] In one example, the first information includes at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area where the first network slice is not supported, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

[0079] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: providing allowed network slice selection assistance information, the allowed network slice selection assistance information comprising single network slice assistance information associated with the first network slice.

[0080] In one example, single network slice assistance information for the first network slice received in the allowed NSSAI is received as part of the first information.

[0081] In one example, the first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information provided in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

[0082] In one example, the first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

[0083] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0084] In one example, at least one cell in the first region and at least one other cell in the second region are different.

[0085] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: when the user equipment is located in a second area of the registration area, providing network slice assistance information indicating partial rejection of the first network slice to the user equipment.

[0086] In one example, the first information is provided in one of: a registration accept message, a user equipment configuration update message.

[0087] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: receiving a registration request message indicating a first network slice from a user equipment.

[0088] In one example, the apparatus is caused to perform: providing an allowed NSSAI, the allowed NSSAI including second information having a second network slice supported in all cells of a registration area.

[0089] In one example, the apparatus is caused to execute: receiving a support indication from a user equipment indicating that the user equipment supports receiving the first information; and providing the first information based on the received support indication.

[0090] In one example, one of: the apparatus is for a network function, the apparatus is included in a network function, and the apparatus is a network function.

[0091] According to one aspect, a method is provided, comprising: receiving first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported from a network function, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and determining whether to trigger registration based on the first information when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

[0092] In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0093] In one example, the identification of the first area is a cell identifier that is linked to the identification of the first network slice.

[0094] In one example, the first network slice is partially supported within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0095] In one example, the user equipment is camping in the first area when receiving the first information.

[0096] In one example, the determining includes: determining whether to trigger registration using the first information; and providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that registration is triggered.

[0097] In one example, the determination includes: when the user equipment moves from a first cell in a first area to a second cell in a second area, determining whether the second cell supports the first network slice based on the first information; and in response to determining that the second cell does not support the first network slice, providing a registration request message to the network function.

[0098] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is a first cell, and the second area is a second cell.

[0099] In one example, the first information includes at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within a registration area that supports the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell includes a cell in which the user equipment is residing.

[0100] In one example, the first information includes at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area where the first network slice is not supported, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

[0101] In one example, the method includes receiving allowed network slice assistance information including single network slice assistance information associated with a first network slice.

[0102] In one example, single network slice assistance information for the first network slice received in the allowed NSSAI is received as part of the first information.

[0103] In one example, the first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information received in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

[0104] In one example, the first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

[0105] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0106] In one example, at least one cell of the first area and at least one other cell of the second area are different.

[0107] In one example, the determining includes providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the user equipment has moved out of the first area and based on the received update indicator.

[0108] In one example, the first information is included in one of the following: a registration acceptance message, a user equipment configuration update message.

[0109] In one example, the method includes providing a registration request message indicating a first network slice to a network function, wherein the first information is received in response to the registration request message.

[0110] In one example, the registration accept message includes an allowed NSSAI including second information having a second network slice supported in all cells of the registration area.

[0111] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is a first cell of a registration area, and the second area is a second cell of the registration area.

[0112] In one example, the method includes providing a support indication to a network function in a registration request message, the support indication indicating that the user equipment supports receiving the first information.

[0113] In one embodiment, the method is performed by a user equipment.

[0114] According to one aspect, a method is provided, comprising: determining, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and providing first information to the user equipment indicating the first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0115] In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0116] In one example, the identification of the first area is a cell identifier that is linked to the identification of the first network slice.

[0117] In one example, the first network slice is partially supported within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0118] In one example, the first information is provided to the user equipment when the user equipment is camping in the first area.

[0119] In one example, the method includes receiving a registration request message from a user equipment when the user equipment has moved to a second area, the second area being distant from the first area.

[0120] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area is at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area is at least one other cell of the registration area.

[0121] In one example, the first information includes at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within a registration area that supports the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell includes a cell in which the user equipment is residing.

[0122] In one example, the first information includes at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area where the first network slice is not supported, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

[0123] In one example, the method includes providing allowed network slice selection assistance information, the allowed network slice selection assistance information including single network slice assistance information associated with a first network slice.

[0124] In one example, single network slice assistance information for the first network slice received in the allowed NSSAI is received as part of the first information.

[0125] In one example, the first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information provided in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

[0126] In one example, the first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

[0127] In one example, at least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least another other cell of the registration area.

[0128] In one example, at least one cell of the first area and at least one other cell of the second area are different.

[0129] In one example, the method includes providing network slice assistance information indicating partial rejection of the first network slice to the user equipment when the user equipment is located in a second area of the registration area.

[0130] In one example, the first information is provided in one of: a registration accept message, a user equipment configuration update message.

[0131] In one example, the method includes receiving a registration request message indicating a first network slice from a user equipment.

[0132] In one example, the method includes providing an allowed NSSAI including second information having a second network slice supported in all cells of a registration area.

[0133] In one example, the method includes: receiving a support indication from a user equipment indicating that the user equipment supports receiving first information; and providing the first information based on the received support indication.

[0134] In one example, the method is performed by a network function.

[0135] According to one aspect, a computer program is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to: receive first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported from a network function, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and determine whether to trigger registration based on the first information when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

[0136] According to one aspect, a computer program is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to: determine, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and provide, to the user equipment, first information indicating the first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0137] According to one aspect, a computer program is provided that includes instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following operations: receiving first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported from a network function, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area, determining whether to trigger registration based on the first information.

[0138] According to one aspect, a computer program is provided, comprising instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following operations: determining, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and providing first information to the user equipment indicating the first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0139] A computer product stored on a medium may cause an apparatus to perform the method as described herein.

[0140] A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the method as described herein.

[0141] An electronic device may comprise an apparatus as described herein.

[0142] In the above, various aspects have been described. It should be understood that further aspects can be provided by combining any two or more of the various aspects described above.

[0143] Various other aspects and further embodiments are described in the following detailed description and appended claims.

[0144] According to some aspects, the subject matter of the independent claims is provided. Some further aspects are defined in the dependent claims. Embodiments not falling within the scope of the claims are to be construed as examples that aid in understanding the present disclosure.

[0145] List of abbreviations:

[0146] AF: Application Function

[0147] AMF: Access and Mobility Management Function

[0148] AN: Access Network

[0149] BS: Base Station

[0150] CLRI: Community Level Registration Information

[0151] CN: Core Network

[0152] DL: Downlink

[0153] eNB:eNodeB

[0154] gNB:gNodeB

[0155] IIoT: Industrial Internet of Things

[0156] LTE: Long Term Evolution

[0157] MS: Mobile Station

[0158] MRU: Mobility Registration Update

[0159] NAS: Non-Access Stratum

[0160] NEF: Network Exposure Function

[0161] NGAP: Next Generation Application Protocol

[0162] NG-RAN: Next Generation Radio Access Network

[0163] NF: Network Function

[0164] NR: New Radio

[0165] NRF: Network Repository Function

[0166] NSSAI: Network Slice Selection Association Information

[0167] NW:Network

[0168] PCF: Policy Control Function

[0169] PLMN: Public Land Mobile Network

[0170] RA: Registration Area

[0171] RAN: Radio Access Network

[0172] RF: Radio Frequency

[0173] SMF: Session Management Function

[0174] S-NSSAI: Single Network Slice Selection Association Information

[0175] TA: Tracking Area

[0176] UE: User Equipment

[0177] UDR: Unified Data Repository

[0178] UDM: Unified Data Management

[0179] UL: Uplink

[0180] UPF: User Plane Function

[0181] 3GPP: Third Generation Partnership Project

[0182] 5G: Fifth Generation

[0183] 5GC: 5G core network

[0184] 5G-AN: 5G Radio Access Network

[0185] 5GS: 5G System BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0186] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0187] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a 5G system;

[0188] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the control arrangement;

[0189] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a terminal;

[0190] Figure 4 shows an example signaling diagram between a user equipment and a network entity;

[0191] Figure 5 shows another example signaling diagram between a user equipment and a network entity;

[0192] Figure 6 A flow chart illustrating an example method performed by an apparatus;

[0193] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating another example method performed by another apparatus; and

[0194] Figure 8 Shows a store instruction (which, when executed by a processor, allows the processor to perform Figure 6 and Figure 7 Schematic representation of a non-volatile memory medium for performing one or more steps of a method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0195] Before describing some examples of the present disclosure in detail, Figures 1 to 3 Certain general principles of wireless communication systems and mobile communication devices are briefly explained to aid understanding of the underlying technology of the described examples.

[0196] In such Figure 1 In the wireless communication system 100 shown in FIG, a mobile communication device / terminal or user equipment, and / or user equipment (UE), and / or machine type communication device 102 is provided with wireless access via at least one base station (not shown) or similar wireless transmission and / or reception node or point. The communication device is provided with appropriate signal reception and transmission means to enable communication, for example, to enable access to a communication network or to communicate directly with other devices. The communication device can access a carrier provided by a base station or access point and transmit and / or receive communications on the carrier.

[0197] In the following, certain examples are described with reference to mobile communication devices capable of communicating via a wireless cellular system and a mobile communication system providing services for such mobile communication devices. 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 basic technology of the described examples.

[0198] Figure 1 A schematic representation of a wireless communication system 100 is shown. The wireless communication system 100 may include one or more devices 102, such as user equipment (UE) or terminals. The wireless communication system 100 may also include a 5G system (5GS), as shown. The 5GS includes a 5G radio access network (5G-RAN) 106, a 5G core network (5G-RAN) 104 including one or more network functions (NFs), one or more application functions (AFs) 108, and one or more data networks (DNs) 110.

[0199] The 5G-RAN 106 may include one or more gNodeB (gNB) distributed unit (DU) functions, which are connected to one or more gNodeB (gNB) centralized unit (CU) functions.

[0200] The 5G-RAN 104 may include an access management function (AMF) 112, a session management function (SMF) 114, an authentication server function (AUSF) 116, a user data management function (UDM) 118, a user plane function (UPF) 120, a network exposure function (NEF) 122, and / or other NFs. Some examples shown below may be applicable to the 3GPP 5G standard. However, some examples may also be applicable to 5G-advanced, 4G, 3G, and other 3GPP standards.

[0201] In such Figure 1 In the wireless communication system 100 shown in FIG, a mobile communication device / terminal or user equipment, and / or user equipment (UE), and / or machine type communication device 102 is provided with wireless access via at least one base station (not shown) or similar wireless transmission and / or reception node or point. The terminal is provided with appropriate signal reception and transmission means to enable communication, for example, to enable access to a communication network or to communicate directly with other devices. The communication device can access a carrier provided by a base station or access point and transmit and / or receive communications on the carrier.

[0202] Figure 2 shows the control Figure 1 , an example of a control device 200 for a 5G-RAN or 5GC function is shown in FIG. The control device may include at least one random access memory (RAM) 211a, at least one read-only memory (ROM) 211b, at least one processor 212, 213, and an input / output interface 214. The at least one processor 212, 213 may be coupled to the RAM 211a and the ROM 211b. The at least one processor 212, 213 may be configured to execute appropriate software code 215. Software code such as 215 may enable execution of one or more steps to perform one or more of the various aspects presented. Software code 215 may be stored in ROM 211b. The control device 200 may be interconnected with another control device 200 that controls another function of a 5G-AN or 5GC. In some examples, each function of a 5G-AN or 5GC includes a control device 200. In alternative examples, two or more functions of a 5G-AN or 5GC may share a control device.

[0203] Figure 3 Shows such as Figure 1. The terminal 300 is an example of a terminal shown in FIG. The terminal 300 can be provided by any device capable of sending and receiving radio signals. Non-limiting examples include user equipment, a mobile station (MS) or a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or a so-called "smartphone"), a computer equipped with a wireless interface card or other wireless interface device (e.g., a USB dongle), a personal digital assistant (PDA) or tablet computer with wireless communication capabilities, a machine type communication (MTC) device, a cellular Internet of Things (CIoT) device, or any combination of these devices. The terminal 300 can provide, for example, the transmission of data for carrying communications. The communication can be one or more of voice, electronic mail (email), text messaging, multimedia, data, machine data, etc.

[0204] The terminal 300 may receive signals over the air interface or radio interface 307 via suitable means for receiving and may transmit signals via suitable means for transmitting radio signals. Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the transceiver arrangement is schematically represented by block 306. The transceiver arrangement 306 may be provided, for example, by means of radio components and associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement may be arranged internally or externally to the mobile device.

[0205] The terminal 300 may be provided with at least one processor 301, at least one memory (ROM) 302a, at least one RAM 302b, and possibly other components 303 for use in software and hardware-assisted execution of the tasks it is designed to perform, including controlling access to and communication with 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, enable execution of one or more of the presented aspects. The software code 308 may be stored in the ROM 302a.

[0206] The processor, storage device and other related control devices can be provided on an appropriate circuit board and / or in a chipset. This feature is indicated by reference numeral 304. The device may optionally have a user interface such as a keyboard 305, a touch screen or touchpad, a combination thereof, or the like. Optionally, one or more of a display, a speaker and a microphone may be provided, depending on the type of device.

[0207] Network slicing is a feature of 5G networks. A network slice is a logical end-to-end network that can be created dynamically. A UE can access multiple slices from the same gNB. Each network slice can serve a specific service type.

[0208] Network slices are defined within a public land mobile network (PLMN) and include the 5GC and 5G RAN control and user planes. Network slices are identified using single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI). NSSAI is a collection of S-NSSAIs. Currently, 3GPP allows up to eight S-NSSAIs within an NSSAI. This means that a single UE can be served by up to eight network slices at a time.

[0209] There are multiple types of NSSAI. The "Subscribed S-NSSAI" is stored in the UDM and used by the 5GC as a default when the UE does not send a requested NSSAI. The "Configured NSSAI" is a configuration from the PLMN, and the PLMN configures the UE with one or more configured NSSAIs. The UE uses this as the default NSSAI. This is the same as the "Subscribed S-NSSAI." The "Allowed NSSAI" is a group assigned by the 5GC and is valid within a registration area or PLMN for a given access type. A maximum of eight network slices can be within the "Allowed NSSAI." Using all eight network slices would require the UE to establish eight protocol data unit (PDU) sessions. The allowed NSSAI can be signaled to the gNB using the Next Generation Application Protocol (NGAP) Initial Context Setup Request message. The gNB can use this information when allocating resources for the UE. The "Requested NSSAI" can include either the "Configured" or "Allowed" NSSAI, or a combination of both. The UE sends the "Requested NSSAI" in the RRC Setup Complete message and / or the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) Registration Request message.

[0210] The Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) or Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) may receive the requested NSSAI. When it receives the requested NSSAI, the AMF / NSSF evaluates these S-NSSAIs of the HPLMN using any received NSSRG information for the S-NSSAI to determine whether the requested NSSAI can be provided together in the "allowed NSSAIs".

[0211] The UE can be informed of the “allowed NSSAI”, which is a list of network slices uniformly available across the UE’s entire Registration Area (RA). This Registration Area consists of a list of Tracking Areas (TAs). A TA is a group of cells.

[0212] The UE may be notified by the network of a "partially rejected S-NSSAI". This "partially rejected S-NSSAI" may be associated with a list of TAs and cells (if applicable) where slice "x" is not supported. This determines that when the UE enters such a cell / area, the UE may trigger registration.

[0213] The UE may be informed by the network of a “partially allowed S-NSSAI”. The “partially allowed S-NSSAI” may be associated with a list of TAs and cells (if applicable) where slice “x” is supported. The UE does not signal when it enters or exits that cell / area. The UE may use the “partially allowed S-NSSAI” to determine under what circumstances the UE may expect a service request to succeed. The “partially allowed S-NSSAI” may also be used to determine under what circumstances slices may be used. For example, to establish a PDU session or to send data over a PDU session (if established).

[0214] Receiving "partially denied S-NSSAI" and "partially allowed S-NSSAI" at the UE can be useful because it can help the UE determine which network slices are available in different areas or cells. However, some related issues have also been identified.

[0215] For example, a network slice (e.g., slice 3, S-NSSAI=3) is supported only in one cell (e.g., cell 1) of the first tracking area (TA1) of the registration area. In this example, TA1 includes other cells (e.g., cells 2 to 5), but slice 3 is not supported on these cells. In this way, it can be said that slice 3 is partially supported in TA1 (or partially supported in RA). When the UE determines to register with the network for one or more network slices, the UE provides a "Registration Request" message to the network. The "Registration Request" message may identify the one or more network slices. The UE may receive a response from the network, which may be a "Registration Accept" message. The "Registration Accept" message may identify which network slices are allowed or rejected.

[0216] In this example, TA1 covers Ottawa, Canada, and cell 1 of TA1 covers an office building in Ottawa. Cell 1 supports slice 3. When located in the office building in cell 1, the UE can register for slice 3 by sending a request for a protocol data unit (PDU) session for slice 3. When the UE is located in the office building (i.e., within cell 1), the request is accepted by the network. The UE can then enter radio resource control (RRC) idle mode using the existing PDU session.

[0217] The "Registration Accept" message received by the UE from the network will not include the "Partially Rejected S-NSSAI" for slice 3, because slice 3 is supported in the office building (i.e., where the UE is located). The "Registration Accept" may contain only "Allowed NSSAI" or "Partially Allowed NSSAI". If "Allowed NSSAI" is included in the "Registration Accept" message to the UE, the UE will register with the network again only when exiting RA. If "Partially Allowed NSSAI" is included in the "Registration Accept", even if cell 1 of the office building is included as partially allowed for slice 3, the UE will not signal when exiting cell 1.

[0218] Therefore, the network has no way of knowing when the UE leaves cell 1 of the office building in Ottawa and slice 3 is no longer available to the UE. This means that even though the UE can only access slice 3 in cell 1 of the office building, the UE still remains registered for slice 3 in the full TA (Ottawa).

[0219] This can cause problems when a UE has exited cell 1. For example, when a UE has left the office building / cell 1, processing of a mobile terminated (MT) call (e.g., paging) can cause the paging in the RA to be obsolete / useless. Furthermore, there is an allocation of a maximum number of UEs / PDU sessions per network slice. Thus, even outside of cell 1 in the office building, a UE can remain registered for slice 3, even though it is not eligible to use that network slice. This means that if the maximum number of UEs for slice 3 has been reached, or the maximum number of PDU sessions for slice 3 has been reached, then other UEs will be prevented from registering with / using slice 3.

[0220] In the following examples, "partial support" means that the network slice is supported in at least one cell in the TA, but not in at least one other cell in TA1 of the RA. For example, TA1 includes cells 1 to 5, and "slice 3" is supported (only) in cell 1 of TA1. "Slice 3" is not supported in cells 2 to 5 of TA1. Thus, for "slice 3", the network slice can be said to be partially supported in TA1. Alternatively, when TA1=RA1, the network slice can be said to be partially supported in RA1.

[0221] One or more of the following examples are intended to address one or more of the above-mentioned issues.

[0222] In an example, an apparatus (e.g., a UE) is provided that is configured to receive, from a network function (e.g., an AMF), first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the UE. The apparatus is further configured to determine, based on the first information, whether to trigger registration when the UE moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

[0223] This will be described in more detail below.

[0224] In a first example, the UE checks whether it has exited a certain cell or cells at each cell change (e.g., handover) based on received cell information (e.g., as first information or included in first information). An example of cell information may be a cell identifier, such as "new" cell-level registration information (CLRI). In the following examples, reference will be made to CLRI. However, any other type of information indicating a cell or cell ID may also be used in the described process.

[0225] When the UE is located in "Cell 1" of the first tracking area "TA1", the UE registers for a network slice called "Slice 3", which is only available in a subset of cells of "TA1". In other words, "Slice 3" is available in one or more cells of TA1 including "Cell 1", but not in all cells of "TA1". In response to the received registration message, the network function (e.g., AMF) includes a "new" additional cell level registration information (CLRI) in the "Registration Accept" message to the UE. The CLRI includes a list of cells in which "Slice 3" is supported. In other examples, the CLRI includes a list of cells in which "Slice 3" is not supported. The CLRI can indicate whether the slice is supported or not, depending on which is more efficient in a given TA from a coding perspective. This is in addition to the "traditional" RA that only includes a list of TAs (in this example, at least TA1).

[0226] In this first example, the UE supports decoding of the CLRI. The UE considers the list of cells included in the received CLRI as a new criterion for checking whether the UE should trigger a registration / registration procedure at each cell change. This registration procedure can be found in clause 4.2.2.2.2 of TS23.502. This registration may include a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) Mobility Registration Update (MRU) procedure. This means that a UE supporting the received CLRI checks at each cell change (e.g. cell reselection or handover) whether the UE has exited the area of the cell list including the "CLRI". If the UE has exited the area of these cells, the UE sends a NAS Registration Request message. In turn, the AMF replies with a Registration Accept message including the updated Registration Area (RA) whereby "Slice 3" is no longer in the allowed NSSAI.

[0227] For a UE that does not support decoding of CLRI, the non-supporting UE will continue to read the legacy RA included in the Registration Accept message including the entire TA. The non-supporting UE will ignore the received CLRI.

[0228] will with Figure 4 This first example is described together in more detail.

[0229] Figure 4 An example signaling diagram between user equipment and network entities is shown.

[0230] At S401, the UE provides a message to a network function. The message is provided via a first cell ("Cell 1"). The network function may be, for example, an AMF. In other examples, the network function is another suitable network function. In the following steps, the NF will be referred to as the AMF.

[0231] The message may be a registration request message. The message indicates a request for network slice 1 ("Slice 1") and network slice 3 ("Slice 3"). It should be understood that Slice 1 and Slice 3 are requested only as an example. In other examples, more or less than two network slices are requested.

[0232] When this message is provided, the UE is located / camped in cell 1. In this example, cell 1 supports slices 1 and 3. Cell 1 is included in the first TA ("TA1") of the first RA ("RA1"). Slice 1 is supported in the entire TA1.

[0233] In this example, TA1 = RA1. In other examples, RA1 includes one or more other TAs in addition to TA1.

[0234] At S402, the AMF receives a message from the UE. The AMF accesses information that TA1 supports slice 1 (within the entire TA1). Cell 1 of TA1 also supports slice 3. In this way, slice 3 is partially supported in TA1.

[0235] The AMF determines that slice 3 (as requested by the UE in this message) is not supported in the entire TA1 where the UE is located. The AMF determines that slice 3 is supported in one or more cells of TA1 (including cell 1).

[0236] At S403, the AMF provides a response message to the UE. The response message is provided via cell 1 (i.e., the cell where the UE is camping).

[0237] The information included in the response message depends specifically on the message received from the UE and the location of the UE.

[0238] The response message includes first information related to i) slice 3 and ii) an area in which slice 3 is supported. In one example, the first information includes an identification of: i) a first network slice, and ii) a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0239] In this example, slice 3 is supported in cell 1. Slice 3 is not supported in any other cells of TA1 / RA1.

[0240] The first information related to i) slice 3 and ii) the area in which slice 3 is supported may include a CLRI for slice 3. The CLRI includes a list of cells in which TA1 of slice 3 is supported. In this example, the list includes only cell 1. The CLRI may also include an associated CLRI-allowed NSSAI, which includes slice 3. In this example, CLRI-allowed NSSAI in the CLRI = Slice 1, 3.

[0241] The first information may also identify slice 1 that is supported in the entire TA1. The identification of slice 1 may be included in the allowed NSSAI.

[0242] The first information may also indicate that TA1 is equal to RA1 (ie, TA1=RA1).

[0243] At S404, the UE receives a response message including the first information. The UE may store the first information at the UE or at a location accessible to the UE. When the UE supports decoding of the CLRI, the UE may store the first information. In some examples, a UE that does not support the decoding of the CLRI may ignore the first information.

[0244] for Figure 4 In this example, it is assumed that the UE supports CLRI.

[0245] The UE leaves cell 1. In this example, the UE moves to a second cell ("cell 2"). Cell 2 is included within TA1 / RA1.

[0246] When the UE moves from cell 1 to cell 2 within the registration area, the UE determines whether to trigger registration based on the received first information.

[0247] The UE can determine whether the reselected cell is part of the CLRI at each cell reselection / handover. If the reselected cell is not part of the CLRI, the UE determines to trigger a registration update. In this example, cell 2 does not support slice 3. This is indicated in the first information because the first information indicates that only cell 1 supports slice 3.

[0248] In other examples, when the UE moves to another cell that also supports slice 3, the UE will not trigger registration.

[0249] At S405, in response to determining that registration is triggered, the UE provides a further message to the AMF. The further message is provided to the UE via cell 2.

[0250] The further message may be part of an MRU process. The MRU process includes sending the further message. The further message may be a registration request message.

[0251] The further message includes an indication of at least one network slice requested for the UE. For example, the further message indicates a request for network slice 1 ("Slice 1") and network slice 3 ("Slice 3"). It should be understood that Slice 1 and Slice 3 are requested only as an example. In other examples, more or less than two network slices are requested.

[0252] At S406, the AMF provides a further response message to the UE via cell 2. The further response message may be a registration accept message.

[0253] The further response message includes a partially rejected NSSAI for cell 1 with slice 3, TA 1. This is because the UE is currently located / camped on cell 2, which does not support slice 3.

[0254] The further response message also includes the allowed NSSAI with slice 1. The further response message also indicates RA1=TA1.

[0255] It should be understood that in some examples, Figure 4 One or more of the steps shown in the diagram may not be performed, or may be performed in a different order.

[0256] In some examples, the UE provides an indication to the network function that the UE supports CLRI decoding.

[0257] In a second example, the UE is provided with an MRU indicator associated with a partially allowed S-NSSAI.

[0258] When the UE is located in "Cell 1" of the first tracking area "TA1", the UE registers for a network slice called "Slice 3", which is only available in a subset of cells in "TA1". In other words, "Slice 3" is available in one or more cells of TA1, including "Cell 1", but not in all cells of "TA1".

[0259] In response to the registration message, the AMF indicates "Slice 3" (S-NSSAI 3) as the partially allowed S-NSSAI in the registration accept message. The registration accept message also indicates the associated area in which "Slice 3" is supported. The associated area includes TA1 cell 1. The associated area may also include other cells. The AMF also includes a "new" MRU indicator in the registration accept message for the partially allowed slice 3, indicating that the UE should trigger registration when exiting the associated area in which the partially allowed slice 3 is supported.

[0260] The associated area may alternatively be referred to as a service area. The service area is an area in which a UE can access / visit a specific network slice.

[0261] When exiting the area of partially allowed slice 3, UEs that support the MRU indicator will trigger the registration process. UEs that do not support the MRU indicator can ignore the MRU indicator.

[0262] will with Figure 5 This second example is described together in more detail.

[0263] Figure 5 Another example signaling diagram between user equipment and a network entity is shown.

[0264] At S501, the UE provides a message to a network function. The message is provided via a first cell ("cell 1"). The network function may be, for example, an AMF. In other examples, the network function is another suitable network function. In the following steps, the NF will be referred to as the AMF.

[0265] The message may be a registration request message. The message indicates a request for network slice 1 ("Slice 1") and network slice 3 ("Slice 3"). It should be understood that Slice 1 and Slice 3 are requested only as an example. In other examples, more or less than two network slices are requested.

[0266] When this message is provided, the UE is located / camped in cell 1. In this example, cell 1 supports slices 1 and 3. Cell 1 is included in the first TA ("TA1") of the first RA ("RA1"). Slice 1 is supported in the entire TA1.

[0267] In this example, TA1 = RA1. In other examples, RA1 includes one or more other TAs in addition to TA1.

[0268] At S502, the AMF receives a message from the UE. The AMF accesses information that TA1 supports slice 1 (within the entire TA1). Cell 1 of TA1 also supports slice 3. In this way, slice 3 is partially supported in TA1.

[0269] The AMF determines that slice 3 (as requested by the UE in this message) is not supported in the entire TA1 where the UE is located. The AMF determines that slice 3 is supported in one or more cells of TA1 (including cell 1).

[0270] The AMF accesses the information that TA1 is equal to RA1. In other words, TA1 is the only TA in RA1.

[0271] At S503, the AMF provides a response message to the UE. The response message is provided via cell 1 (i.e., the cell where the UE is camping).

[0272] The information included in the response message depends specifically on the message received from the UE and the location of the UE.

[0273] The response message includes first information related to i) slice 3 and ii) an area in which slice 3 is supported. In this example, slice 3 is supported in cell 1. Slice 3 is not supported in any other cells of TA1 / RA1.

[0274] The first information related to i) slice 3 and ii) the area in which slice 3 is supported may include a partially allowed NSSAI indicating slice 3 in cell 1 of TA1. The indication of slice 3 may include S-NSSAI 3. The partially allowed NSSAI indicating slice 3 in cell 1 of TA1 may include an associated area in which slice 3 is supported. Figure 5 In this example, the associated area is cell 1. In other examples, the associated area may be multiple cells within RA1.

[0275] The first information may also include an indicator. The indicator is associated with / connected to slice 3. The indicator may be referred to as an MRU indicator. It should be understood that in other examples, the indicator may be given any suitable name. The indicator indicates that the UE should trigger registration when the user equipment moves out of the associated area.

[0276] At 504, the UE receives a response message that includes the first information. The UE may store the first information (including the MRU indicator) at the UE or at a location accessible to the UE. When the UE supports the MRU indicator, the UE may store the first information. In some examples, a UE that does not support the MRU indicator ignores the first information including the MRU indicator.

[0277] for Figure 5 In this example, it is assumed that the UE supports the MRU indicator.

[0278] The UE leaves cell 1. Since the associated area consists of cell 1, when the UE moves away from cell 1, the UE is moving out of the associated area.

[0279] In this example, the UE moves to a second cell ("Cell 2"). Cell 2 is included within TA1 / RA1. However, Cell 2 is not included within the associated area.

[0280] When the UE moves out of the associated area within the registration area (ie, moves out of cell 1), the UE determines whether to trigger registration based on the received first information. The determination is also based on the presence of the MRU indicator.

[0281] exist Figure 5 In the example of , when the UE exits the associated area with partially allowed slice 3 and the UE supports the MRU indicator, the UE determines that registration is triggered.

[0282] At S505, in response to determining that registration is triggered, the UE provides a further message to the AMF. The further message is provided to the UE via cell 2.

[0283] The further message may be part of an MRU process. The MRU process includes sending the further message. The further message may be a registration request message.

[0284] The further message indicates a request for network slice 1 ("Slice 1") and network slice 3 ("Slice 3"). It should be understood that Slice 1 and Slice 3 are requested only as an example. In other examples, more or less than two network slices are requested.

[0285] At S506, the AMF provides a further response message to the UE via cell 2. The further response message may be a registration accept message.

[0286] The further response message includes a partially rejected NSSAI for cell 1 with slice 3, TA 1. This is because the UE is currently located / camped on cell 2, which does not support slice 3.

[0287] The further response message also includes the allowed NSSAI with slice 1. The further response message also indicates RA1=TA1.

[0288] It should be understood that in some examples, Figure 5 One or more of the steps shown in the diagram may not be performed, or may be performed in a different order.

[0289] In some examples, the UE provides an indication to the network function that the UE supports the MRU indicator.

[0290] In some examples, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The steps may be combined or used together. For example, the CLRI and the MRU indicator may be provided to the UE.

[0291] In some examples, a public land mobile network (PLMN) may implement a resource allocation policy for a network slice in a cell where the TA of the network slice is not supported. The PLMN may provide some resources to the network slice, or no resources. When no resources are allocated to the network slice, the radio access network (RAN) may trigger the release of the PDU session, and for the PDU session in connected mode, no handover session may be accepted for the network slice. When some resources are allocated, the PDU session of the network slice may be retained (and handed over), also to a cell where the network slice is not supported (i.e., outside the service area of the network slice). The PLMN may use reports from the RAN to detect when the UE is inside or outside the service area in connected mode. For example, for billing purposes, or to enable the core network to decide to retain the PDU session.

[0292] One or more of the examples discussed above result in a number of advantages, such as reduced resource waste / reduced resource usage. This is because when a UE has moved to an area where network slicing is no longer supported, unnecessary paging is eliminated and the UE is disconnected from the network slice. This is in contrast to previous systems where the UE would remain connected to the network slice even when moving to an area where network slicing is not supported.

[0293] Other advantages include increased capacity in the network. A network slice can have a maximum number of UEs that can access the network slice at any one time. In one example, when a UE is no longer in an area supporting the network slice, it will disconnect from the network slice. This allows other UEs to register with the network slice, ensuring that the capacity of the slice is fully utilized.

[0294] Figure 6 An example method flow performed by an apparatus is shown. The apparatus may be included in a user equipment. The apparatus may be used in a user equipment. The apparatus may be a user equipment. In other examples, the user equipment may be another user equipment or a terminal.

[0295] At S601, the method includes receiving, from a network function, first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment.

[0296] At S603 , the method includes determining whether to trigger registration based on first information when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

[0297] Figure 7 An example method flow performed by an apparatus is shown. The apparatus may be included in a network function. The apparatus may be used in a network function. The apparatus may be a network function.

[0298] At S701, the method includes determining, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment.

[0299] At S703, the method includes providing first information to the user equipment indicating a first area in which the first network slice is supported.

[0300] Figure 8 Non-volatile storage media 800a (e.g., a computer compact disc (CD) or digital versatile disc (DVD)) and 800b (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) memory stick) are shown, which store instructions and / or parameters 802 that, when executed by a processor, allow the processor to perform Figure 6 and Figure 7 Schematic representation of one or more steps of a method.

[0301] It is noted that while the above describes exemplifying embodiments, there are several variations and modifications which may be made to the disclosed solution without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0302] Therefore, the examples may vary within the scope of the appended claims. In general, some embodiments may be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuitry, 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 representation, it is fully understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or a controller or other computing device, or some combination thereof.

[0303] Examples can 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 can represent program steps, or interconnected logic circuits, blocks and functions, or a combination of program steps and logic circuits, blocks and functions. The software can be stored on a physical medium such as a memory chip, or a storage block implemented in a processor, a magnetic medium (such as a hard disk or floppy disk), and an optical medium (such as, for example, a DVD and its data variants, a CD).

[0304] As used herein, the term "non-transitory" is a restriction on the medium itself (ie, tangible, rather than a signal), rather than a restriction on the persistence of data storage (eg, RAM versus ROM).

[0305] As used herein, “at least one of: <a list of two or more elements / components>” and “at least one of: <a list of two or more elements / components>” and similar expressions (wherein a list of two or more elements / components is connected by “and” or “or”) mean at least any one of the elements / components, or at least any two or more of the elements / components, or at least all of the elements / components.

[0306] 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 storage devices, magnetic storage devices and systems, optical storage 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, by way of non-limiting example, one or more of the following: 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.

[0307] Alternatively or additionally, some examples may be implemented using circuits. The circuits may be configured to perform one or more functions and / or method steps described previously. The circuits may be provided in a base station and / or a communication device.

[0308] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0309] (a) hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation of analog and / or digital circuits only);

[0310] (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as:

[0311] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware; and

[0312] (ii) any portion of a hardware processor (including a digital signal processor), software, and memory with software, which

[0313] Working together to enable an apparatus such as a communication device or base station to perform the various functions previously described; and

[0314] (c) Hardware circuits and / or processors, such as a microprocessor or portion of a microprocessor, that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may not be present when the software is not required for operation.

[0315] 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 / component.

[0316] The foregoing description has provided a full 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 relevant arts in view of the foregoing description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. Nevertheless, all such and similar modifications of the teachings will still fall within the scope as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device comprising: means for receiving, from a network function, first information relating to a first area in which a first network slice is supported, wherein the first area is included within a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and means for determining whether to trigger registration based on the first information when the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein The first network slice is partially supported within the tracking area of the registration area of the user equipment.

3. The device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The user equipment is currently residing in the first area when receiving the first information.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The components used for determination include: means for determining whether to trigger said registration using said first information; and means for providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the registration is triggered.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The components used for determination include: means for determining, when the user equipment moves from a first cell in the first area to a second cell in the second area, whether the second cell supports the first network slice based on the first information; and A component for providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the second cell does not support the first network slice.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first information comprises at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area supporting the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell comprises the cell in which the user equipment is currently camping.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The first information comprises at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area that does not support the first network slice, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The apparatus comprises means for receiving allowed network slice assistance information, wherein the allowed network slice assistance information comprises single network slice assistance information associated with the first network slice.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information received in the partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein The first information includes an update indicator, which enables the user equipment to trigger registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein At least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

12. The device according to claim 10, wherein The components used for determination include: means for providing a registration request message to the network function in response to determining that the user equipment has moved out of the first area and based on the received update indicator.

13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein The first information is included in one of the following: a registration acceptance message, a user equipment configuration update message.

14. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein At least one of the following: the first area is a first cell of the registration area, and the second area is a second cell of the registration area.

15. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein The device comprises: The method further comprises providing a support indication to the network function in a registration request message, wherein the support indication indicates that the user equipment supports receiving the first information.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein One of the following: the apparatus is for the user equipment, the apparatus is included in the user equipment, and the apparatus is the user equipment.

17. An apparatus comprising: means for determining, based on a request received from a user equipment, that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included within a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and means for providing, to the user equipment, first information indicating the first area in which the first network slice is supported.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein The first network slice is partially supported within the tracking area of the registration area of the user equipment.

19. The apparatus of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein: The first information is provided to the user equipment when the user equipment resides in the first area.

20. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein The apparatus includes means for receiving a registration request message from the user equipment when the user equipment has moved to a second area, wherein the second area is remote from the first area.

21. The device according to claim 20, wherein At least one of the following: the first area is a first cell of the registration area, and the second area is a second cell of the registration area.

22. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein The first information comprises at least one cell identifier of at least one cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area supporting the first network slice, wherein the at least one cell comprises the cell in which the user equipment is currently camping.

23. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein The first information comprises at least one other cell identifier of at least one other cell of at least one tracking area within the registration area that does not support the first network slice, wherein the user equipment is camping in a cell away from the at least one other cell.

24. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein The apparatus comprises means for providing allowed network slice selection assistance information, wherein the allowed network slice selection assistance information comprises single network slice assistance information associated with the first network slice.

25. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 24, wherein The first network slice is indicated in the first information by single network slice assistance information provided in partially allowed single network slice assistance information.

26. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 25, wherein The first information includes: an update indicator, where the update indicator indicates that the user equipment triggers registration when the user equipment leaves the first area.

27. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 26, wherein At least one of the following: the first area includes at least one cell of the registration area, and the second area includes at least one other cell of the registration area.

28. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 27, wherein The device comprises: A component for providing network slice assistance information indicating partial rejection of the first network slice to the user equipment when the user equipment is located in a second area of the registration area.

29. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein The first information is provided in one of the following: a registration accept message, a user equipment configuration update message.

30. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 29, wherein The device comprises: means for receiving, from the user equipment, a support indication indicating that the user equipment supports receiving the first information; and means for providing said first information based on the received indication of support.

31. The device according to any one of claims 17 to 30, wherein One of: the device is for a network function, the device is included in the network function, and the device is the network function.

32. A method comprising: receiving, from a network function, first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported, wherein the first area is included within a tracking area of a registration area of a user equipment; and When the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area, it is determined whether to trigger registration based on the first information.

33. A method comprising: Based on a request received from a user equipment, determining that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein the first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; and First information indicating a first area in which the first network slice is supported is provided to the user equipment.

34. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to: receiving, from a network function, first information related to a first area in which a first network slice is supported, wherein: The first area is included in a tracking area of a registration area of the user equipment; as well as When the user equipment moves from the first area to a second area within the registration area, it is determined whether to trigger registration based on the first information.

35. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to: Based on a request received from a user equipment, determining that a first network slice is supported in a first area, wherein: The first area is included in the tracking area of the registration area of the user equipment; as well as First information indicating a first area in which the first network slice is supported is provided to the user equipment.

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