Apparatus, method and computer program

Abstract

An apparatus comprising: means for receiving, from a user equipment, a request for establishing a boot data channel with a data channel server, the request comprising an attribute (S1) associated with the user equipment; means (S2) for determining, based on the attribute, an address indicative of a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for the user equipment; and means (S3) for providing at least one application or application list to the user equipment via the boot data channel using the address.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a method, apparatus, system, and computer program, and particularly, but not limited to, a method for identifying a subscriber-guided login page for an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) data channel. Background Technology

[0002] A communication system can be viewed as a facility that enables a communication session between two or more entities (such as user terminals, base stations, and / or other nodes) by providing carrier waves between the various entities involved in the communication path. For example, a communication system can be provided by means of a communication network and one or more compatible communication devices. A communication session can include, for example, communication for carrying data, such as voice, video, email, text messages, multimedia, and / or content data. Non-limiting examples of the services provided include two-way or multi-way calling, data communication or multimedia services, and access to data network systems (such as the Internet).

[0003] In wireless communication systems, at least a portion of a communication session between at least two stations occurs via a wireless link. Examples of wireless systems include Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs), satellite-based communication systems, and various wireless local area networks, such as Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). Some wireless systems can be divided into cells and are therefore often referred to as cellular systems.

[0004] Users can access the communication system using appropriate communication equipment or terminals. A user's communication equipment can be referred to as user equipment (UE) or user device. The communication equipment is equipped with appropriate signal receiving and transmitting means for enabling communication, such as access to a communication network or direct communication with other users. The communication equipment can access carriers provided by stations (e.g., base stations in a cell) and transmit and / or receive communications on those carriers.

[0005] Communication systems and associated equipment typically operate according to a given standard or specification that defines what the various entities associated with the system are allowed to do and how they should do it. Communication protocols and / or parameters used for connectivity are also usually defined. An example of a communication system is UTRAN (3G Radio). Other examples are the Long Term Evolution (LTE) of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) radio access technology and so-called 5G or New Radio (NR) networks. NR is being standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising:

[0007] The components include: a component for receiving from a user equipment a request to establish a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; a component for determining, based on the attributes, an address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for the user equipment; and a component for using the address to provide at least one application or a list of applications to the user equipment via the bootstrap data channel.

[0008] The device may include a component for receiving the request from a user device via an application server.

[0009] The device may include a component for providing the address to the user equipment.

[0010] The device may include a component for providing the address to a user device via an application server.

[0011] This address can be provided to the user device in the Session Description Protocol message.

[0012] The apparatus may include: components for determining, based on the attribute, an additional address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for a terminal device, and components for providing the address to the terminal device.

[0013] The device may include a component for providing the address to the data channel media function.

[0014] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0015] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications may include pre-configured addresses.

[0016] The apparatus may include: components for receiving an identifier associated with a boot data channel from a data channel media function, and components for associating the identifier with the address.

[0017] The apparatus may include: a component for receiving a request for the address from a data channel media function, the request including the identifier.

[0018] The apparatus may include a component for providing the address to the data channel media function based on the identifier.

[0019] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0020] The apparatus may include: components for receiving a request from a user equipment via a data channel media function for at least one application or a list of applications, the request including the identifier; and components for directing the request to the address based on the identifier.

[0021] The device may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0022] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0023] In a second aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components for providing a network function with a request from a user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; components for receiving an address in response to the request, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrap channel, the address being determined based on the attributes; and components for providing the received address with a request from the user equipment for at least one application or a list of applications.

[0024] The apparatus may include a component for providing a request for establishing a boot data channel from a user equipment via an application server.

[0025] The device may include a component for receiving the address at the user equipment via an application server.

[0026] The apparatus may include a component for receiving the address at the user equipment in a session description protocol message.

[0027] Network functions may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0028] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0029] In a third aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising components for the apparatus, the apparatus including: receiving from a user equipment a request for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; determining, based on the attributes, an address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for the user equipment; and using the address to provide at least one application or a list of applications to the user equipment via the bootstrap data channel.

[0030] This method may include receiving the request from the user device via an application server.

[0031] This method may include providing the address to the user equipment.

[0032] This method may include providing the address to the user device via an application server.

[0033] This address can be provided to the user device in the Session Description Protocol message.

[0034] The method may include: determining, based on the attribute, an additional address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications for a terminal device; and providing the address to the terminal device.

[0035] This method may include providing the address to the data channel media function.

[0036] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0037] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications may include pre-configured addresses.

[0038] The method may include: receiving an identifier associated with the boot data channel from the data channel media function; and associating the identifier with the address.

[0039] The method may include receiving a request for the address from a data channel media function, the request including the identifier.

[0040] The method may include providing the address to the data channel media function based on the identifier.

[0041] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0042] The method may include: receiving a request from a user equipment via a data channel media function for at least one application or a list of applications, the request including the identifier; and directing the request to the address based on the identifier.

[0043] The device may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0044] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0045] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided, comprising: providing a network function with a request from a user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; receiving an address in response to the request, the address indicating: a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrap channel, the address being determined based on the attributes; and providing the received address with a request from the user equipment for at least one application or a list of applications.

[0046] This method may include providing a request from the user device via an application server to establish a boot data channel.

[0047] This method may include receiving the address at the user device via an application server.

[0048] This method may include receiving the address at the user equipment in a session description protocol message.

[0049] Network functions may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0050] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0051] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus is provided, 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 from a user equipment a request for establishing a boot data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; determine, based on the attributes, an address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for the user equipment; and use the address to provide at least one application or a list of applications to the user equipment via the boot data channel.

[0052] The device can be configured to receive the request from the user device via an application server.

[0053] The device can be made to provide the address to the user equipment.

[0054] The device can be configured to provide the address to the user device via an application server.

[0055] This address can be provided to the user device in the Session Description Protocol message.

[0056] The device can be configured to: determine, based on the attribute, an additional address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications for a terminal device; and provide the address to the terminal device.

[0057] The device can be made to provide the address to the data channel media function.

[0058] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0059] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications may include pre-configured addresses.

[0060] The device can be configured to: receive an identifier associated with the boot data channel from the data channel media function; and associate the identifier with the address.

[0061] The device can be made to receive a request for the address from the data channel media function, the request including the identifier.

[0062] The device can be configured to provide the address to the data channel media function based on the identifier.

[0063] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0064] The device can cause the user equipment to receive a request for at least one application or a list of applications via a data channel media function, the request including the identifier; and to direct the request to the address based on the identifier.

[0065] The device may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0066] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0067] In a sixth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: provide a network function with a request from a user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; receive an address in response to the request, the address indicating: a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrap channel, the address being determined based on the attributes; and provide the received address with a request from the user equipment for at least one application or a list of applications.

[0068] The device can enable a request to establish a boot data channel to be provided from a user device via an application server.

[0069] The device can be configured to receive the address at the user device via an application server.

[0070] The device can be made to receive the address at the user equipment in a session description protocol message.

[0071] Network functions may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0072] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0073] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, the computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0074] The user equipment receives a request to establish a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; based on the attributes, determines an address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for the user equipment; and uses the address to provide at least one application or a list of applications to the user equipment via the bootstrap data channel.

[0075] The device can be configured to receive the request from the user device via an application server.

[0076] The device can be made to provide the address to the user equipment.

[0077] The device can be configured to provide the address to the user device via an application server.

[0078] This address can be provided to the user device in the Session Description Protocol message.

[0079] The device can be made to: determine, based on the attribute, an additional address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications for a terminal device; and provide that address to the terminal device.

[0080] The device can be made to provide the address to the data channel media function.

[0081] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0082] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications may include pre-configured addresses.

[0083] The apparatus can be made to perform: receive an identifier associated with the boot data channel from the data channel media function; and associate the identifier with the address.

[0084] The device can be configured to receive a request for the address from the data channel media function, the request including the identifier.

[0085] The device can be made to provide the address to the data channel media function based on the identifier.

[0086] Requests for at least one application or a list of applications can be directed from the user equipment to this address via the data channel media function.

[0087] The device can be made to: receive a request from a user equipment via a data channel media function for at least one application or a list of applications, the request including the identifier; and to direct the request to the address based on the identifier.

[0088] The device may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0089] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0090] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, the computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0091] The system provides a request from a user equipment to a network function for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; receives an address in response to the request, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrap channel, the address being determined based on the attribute; and provides the received address with a request from the user equipment for at least one application or a list of applications.

[0092] The device can be made to execute requests provided by the user equipment via an application server for establishing a boot data channel.

[0093] The device can be made to receive the address at the user device via an application server.

[0094] The device can be made to receive the address at the user equipment in a session description protocol message.

[0095] Network functions may include: a data channel application repository, or a data channel signaling function, or a network server.

[0096] This address may include a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).

[0097] In a ninth aspect, a non-transient computer-readable medium is provided, the non-transient computer-readable medium including program instructions for causing a device to perform at least the method according to the third or fourth aspect.

[0098] Many different embodiments have been described above. It should be understood that other embodiments can be provided by combining any two or more of the embodiments described above. Attached Figure Description

[0099] Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0100] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example 5GS communication system is shown;

[0101] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an example mobile communication device is shown;

[0102] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an example control device is shown;

[0103] Figure 4 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0104] Figure 5 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0105] Figure 6 The signaling flow according to an example embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0106] Before explaining the examples in detail, refer to Figures 1 to 3 Briefly explain some general principles of wireless communication systems and mobile communication devices to help understand the underlying technology of the described examples.

[0107] Examples of suitable communication systems are the 5G or NR concepts. The network architecture in NR can be similar to that of advanced LTE. Base stations in an NR system can be referred to as next-generation node Bs (gNBs). Changes in network architecture can depend on the need to support various radio technologies and more granular QoS support, as well as some on-demand requirements for, for example, supporting Quality of Service (QoS) levels for user experience (QoE). Furthermore, network-aware services and applications, and service and application-aware networks, may bring about changes to the architecture. These are related to information-centric networks (ICNs) and user-centric content delivery networks (UC-CDNs). NR can use multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, more base stations or nodes than LTE (the so-called small cell concept), including macro sites operating in cooperation with smaller base stations, and may also employ various radio technologies for better coverage and enhanced data rates.

[0108] Future networks may leverage Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), a network architecture concept that proposes virtualizing network node functions as "building blocks" or entities that can be operationally connected or linked together to provide services. Virtualized network functions (VNFs) can include one or more virtual machines running computer program code using standard or general-purpose servers instead of custom hardware. Cloud computing or data storage may also be utilized. In radio communications, this can mean that node operations can be performed, at least partially, in a server, host, or node operatively coupled to a remote radio head. Node operations can also be distributed across multiple servers, nodes, or hosts. It should also be understood that the division of labor between core network operations and base station operations may differ from, or even not exist, in LTE.

[0109] Figure 1A schematic representation of a 5G system (5GS) 100 is shown. The 5GS may include a user equipment (UE) 102 (which may also be referred to as a communication device or terminal), a 5G radio access network (5GRAN) 104, a 5G core network (5GCN) 106, one or more application functions (AF) 108, and one or more data networks (DN) 110.

[0110] The example 5G core network (CN) includes functional entities. 5GCN 106 may include one or more Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) 112, one or more Session Management Functions (SMF) 114, Authentication Server Function (AUSF) 116, Unified Data Management (UDM) 118, one or more User Plane Functions (UPF) 120, Unified Data Repository (UDR) 122, and / or Network Exposure Function (NEF) 124. The UPF is controlled by the SMF (Session Management Function), which receives policies from the PCF (Policy Control Function).

[0111] The CN is connected to the UE via the Radio Access Network (RAN). The 5G RAN may include one or more gNodeB (GNB) distributed unit functions connected to one or more gNodeB (GNB) centralized unit functions. The RAN may include one or more access nodes.

[0112] The User Plane Function (UPF), known as the PDU Session Anchor (PSA), is responsible for forwarding frames back and forth between the DN and the tunnels established via 5G toward (multiple) UEs to exchange services with the DN.

[0113] Now refer to Figure 2 A more detailed description of possible mobile communication devices, Figure 2A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a communication device 200 is shown. Such a communication device is generally referred to as a user equipment (UE) or terminal. Suitable mobile communication devices can be provided by any device capable of transmitting and receiving radio signals. Non-limiting examples include mobile stations (MS) or mobile devices, such as mobile phones or so-called "smartphones," computers equipped with wireless interface cards or other wireless interface facilities (e.g., USB dongles), personal data assistants (PDAs) or tablets equipped with wireless communication capabilities, VoIP phones, portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal devices (such as digital cameras), gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEEs), laptop installed devices (LMEs), smart devices, wireless client devices (CPEs), or any combination of these devices. Mobile communication devices can provide communication, for example, for carrying data such as voice, email, text messages, multimedia, etc. Therefore, users can obtain and access a variety of services through their communication devices. Non-limiting examples of these services include two-way or multi-way calling, data communications or multimedia services, or simply access to data communications network systems such as the Internet. Broadcast or multicast data may also be provided to users. Non-limiting examples of content include downloads, television and radio programs, videos, advertisements, various alarms, and other information.

[0114] Mobile devices typically include at least one data processing entity 201, at least one memory 202, and other possible components 203. Components 203 are used to assist in performing tasks designed to be performed, including controlling access to and communication with systems and other communication devices, using both software and hardware. Data processing, storage, and other related control devices may be provided on a suitable circuit board and / or in a chipset. This feature is indicated by reference numeral 204. Users can control the operation of the mobile device through a suitable user interface (such as a keypad 205, voice commands, a touchscreen or touchpad, or combinations thereof). A display 208, a speaker, and a microphone may also be provided. Furthermore, mobile communication devices may include suitable connectors (wired or wireless) for connecting to other devices and / or for connecting external accessories (e.g., hands-free devices).

[0115] Mobile device 200 can receive signals via air or radio interface 207 through appropriate means for receiving, and can transmit signals via appropriate means for transmitting radio signals. Figure 2 In the diagram, the transceiver device is schematically represented by block 206. The transceiver device 206 can be provided, for example, by means of a radio section and an associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement can be arranged inside or outside the mobile device.

[0116] Figure 3 An example of a control device 300 for a communication system is shown, for example, to be coupled to and / or used to control a station (such as a RAN node, eNB, or gNB), relay node, or core network node (such as an MME, S-GW, or P-GW), or core network function (such as an AMF / SMF), or server or host, accessing the system. The method can be implemented in a single control device or across more than one control device. The control device can be integrated with or located outside of nodes or modules of the core network or RAN. In some embodiments, the base station includes a separate control device unit or module. In other embodiments, the control device can be another network element, such as a radio network controller or spectrum controller. In some embodiments, each base station can have such a control device as well as control devices provided in the radio network controller. The control device 300 can be arranged to provide control over communications within the service area of ​​the system. The control device 300 includes at least one memory 301, at least one data processing unit 302, 303, and an input / output interface 304. Through this interface, the control device can be coupled to the receiver and transmitter of the base station. The receiver and / or transmitter can be implemented as a radio front end or a remote radio head end.

[0117] IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) is widely deployed to provide voice communication services. To enable IMS to handle interactive calls beyond voice communication, an IMS Data Channel (DC) is defined. The IMS DC uses Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) / Session Description Protocol (SDP) to perform IMSDC SDP negotiation between the endpoint and the Data Channel Server (DCS). The DCS can be included in both DCSF (DC Signaling Function) and DCMF (DC Media Function). Based on the SDP negotiation results, the endpoint can establish a bootstrap data channel with the DCS and retrieve an application list and at least one application from the DCS using HTTP / SCTP / DTLS / UDP protocols. The bootstrap DC is a data channel through which the UE can download applications (i.e., download HTML pages with embedded JavaScript files, images, and stylesheets). The bootstrap DC uses certain stream IDs (below 1000) instead of the application DC.

[0118] IMS data channels can enable one or more application data channels for applications other than voice (e.g., interactive chat). Using IMS data channels, data applications can be created and delivered to users without pre-installing them on their devices. Each subscriber can use different DC applications based on subscription or other conditions (such as called number, or more generally, terminator identifier). If the network knows the device capabilities (e.g., rendering capabilities), these capabilities can be an important input when creating a list of applications for subscribers using the device. Therefore, the network can provide users with specific DC applications or a list of applications tailored to their user and device needs and capabilities.

[0119] In this context, the application or application list is an HTML page with embedded JavaScript and potentially other objects such as stylesheets or images. Users can select any application from the application list. When a user wants to launch an application, an application data channel is established via SDP negotiation. After the application data channel is established, endpoints can exchange application data within it.

[0120] The specification defines that the bootstrap data channel should use HTTP (without encapsulating HTTP in the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)), as represented by the following example SDP line "a = dcmap". Therefore, this line appears in the data channel media description of the SDP offer in the terminal of an IMS Multimedia Telephony Service (DCMTSI) client with DC capability:

[0121] a=dcmap:0subprotocol="http"

[0122] Data channel stream IDs below 1000 are reserved for retrieving HTML web pages containing JavaScript(s) using the HTTP protocol (hereinafter referred to as the "Boot Data Channel"), and optionally for retrieving images(s) and stylesheets(s) (hereinafter referred to as the "Data Channel Application"). The Data Channel Application (accessible via the Bootstrap Data Channel at the HTTP root (" / ") URL) describes the graphical user interface and the logic required to handle any additional data channel usage beyond the Bootstrap Data Channel itself. The meaning of the "Authorization" (Host) portion of the URL, and therefore the "Host" HTTP header, is undefined, should be ignored upon receipt, and should be set to null by the DCMTSI client in the terminal.

[0123] Since the data channel is linked to a user, the DCS can maintain a mapping between the data channel information, identified by the stream ID in the "dcmap" attribute of the SDP during data channel establishment, and the user information. The stream ID is unique within the media description. The DCS will query the application repository based on the user information to retrieve the application list and generate the relevant HTML and JavaScript content.

[0124] Since DCSF and DCMF are separate, both DCSF and DCMF should maintain data channel user information, or DCMF must query this information from DCSF to find relevant user information and create a specific user URL that enables the UE to download applications or application lists.

[0125] When a DCMTSI client in the terminal attempts to retrieve the boot application list, one option is for the DCS to link a user identifier (e.g., IMSIMPU) with the DC boot channel (e.g., IP address, port number, flow ID, other information) and create a user-specific list. However, this solution is implementation-specific, and it is unclear how to uniquely identify the DC boot channel across different implementations (e.g., DCSF implemented by provider A and DCMF implemented by provider B).

[0126] Figure 4 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown. This method can be performed at a network function such as a DCSF, DCAR, or a network server.

[0127] In S1, the method includes receiving a request from the user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment.

[0128] In S2, the method includes determining, based on the attribute, an address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for a user device.

[0129] In S3, the method includes using the address to provide at least one application or a list of applications to the user equipment via a boot data channel.

[0130] Figure 5 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0131] In T1, the method includes providing a network node with a request from a user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment.

[0132] In T2, the method includes receiving an address in response to the request, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via a boot channel, the address being determined based on the attribute.

[0133] In T3, the method includes providing a request from the user device for at least one application or a list of applications to the received address.

[0134] This address can include a URL.

[0135] This attribute may include at least one of the following: device capabilities, subscription information, or termination information.

[0136] The request to establish a pilot data channel can be provided to the network function from the user equipment via an application server (e.g., IMS AS). A data channel server (DCS) is included in the DCMF and DCSF. The pilot channel can be established between the UE and the DCMF. The signaling for establishing the channel can be sent from the UE to the IMS AS and further to the DCSF.

[0137] The method may include providing the address to a user device. The address may be provided to the user device via an application server (e.g., IMSAS). The method may include: determining, based on the attribute, an additional address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications for the terminal device, and providing that additional address to the terminal device.

[0138] In the example embodiment, the DCSF receives data extracted from the SDP proposal from the DCMTSI client in the terminal. Based on the user's subscription, called party identifier, other relevant data, and operator policies, the DCSF assigns a specific URL to the user-specific bootstrapping application.

[0139] In one example implementation, the DCSF provides the URL to the IMS AS, which includes it in the "Request Target" parameter of the "dcsa" attribute in the SDP response. See below.

[0140] Examples are shown in Table 1.

[0141]

[0142] Table 1

[0143] In one example embodiment, when establishing the bootstrap data channel, the SDP includes a parameter referred to as the "request target," for example, as part of the "dcsa" attribute. The SDP attribute may contain URLs from which the UE can download applications, or a list of possible and permitted applications specific to its subscriber. The DCMTSI client in the terminal should use this URL in an HTTP message sent via the bootstrap data channel to retrieve the bootstrap application or the application list.

[0144] For example, the DCMTSI client in the terminal uses the target URL in an HTTP request message through an established boot data channel to retrieve the boot application or a list of applications.

[0145] See the examples in Table 2 below.

[0146]

[0147] Table 2

[0148] In an example embodiment, when the DCMF receives such an HTTP request message via the bootstrap data channel, it forwards the HTTP request message to the DCSF, DCAR, or any other network server indicated in the request target of the HTTP request message.

[0149] In the example embodiment, when the DCMF receives an HTTP response to the request, the DCMF forwards the response to the UE via the bootstrap data channel, as shown in Table 3 below.

[0150]

[0151] This method may include providing the address to the DCMF. The DCMF may direct requests from a user device for at least one application or a list of applications to that address. Requests from a user device for at least one application or a list of applications may include pre-configured addresses, such as a root URL or a " / " URL.

[0152] In one example embodiment, the DCSF may optionally, with the assistance of DCAR or another function, create a URL for the DC application or application list for the UE during DC boot setup and provide that URL to the DCMF. After the boot channel is established and the UE sends an HTTP request message to the " / " URL, the DCMF may redirect the request to the URL created by the DCSF, where the application or list can be downloaded.

[0153] The method may include: receiving an identifier associated with a bootstrap data channel from a data channel management media function, and associating that identifier with an address (URL). The method may include receiving a request for the address from the data channel management media function, the request including the identifier. The method may include providing the address to the data channel management media function based on the identifier. The DCMF may then direct a request from a user equipment for at least one application or a list of applications to that address. The request from the user equipment for at least one application or a list of applications may include a pre-configured address, such as a root URL or a " / " URL.

[0154] In one example embodiment, the DCMF assigns a unique ID (a new ID or a combination of existing IDs, such as an IP address, port number, flow ID, etc.) that identifies the bootstrap data channel established in the DCMF for a specific UE, and the DCMF sends this ID to the DCSF. The DCSF may optionally create a URL for the DC application or application list for the UE with the help of DCAR or another function, and store it along with the bootstrap channel ID.

[0155] After the boot channel is established and the UE sends an HTTP request message to the " / " URL, the DCMF requests the previously created URL from the DCSF by providing the boot channel ID, and redirects the HTTP request from the UE to the URL provided by the DCSF.

[0156] Alternatively, the method may include: receiving a request from a user equipment via a DCMF for at least one application or a list of applications, the request including an identifier; and directing the request to the address based on the identifier. In this example embodiment, the DCMF may directly forward an HTTP request message from the UE to the DCSF, and the DCSF may redirect the request to a stored URL.

[0157] Figure 6 The signaling flow according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0158] At point 1, the UE sends a SIP INVITE including SDP to establish a boot data channel.

[0159] At point 2, the IMS AS performs DC routing decisions and DCSF discovery.

[0160] The IMS AS extracts SIP attributes such as user ID and SDP attributes at three locations and forwards them to the DCSF.

[0161] At point 4, based on subscriptions and other information, DCSF or DCAR (DC Application Repository) creates a URL (URL1) and another URL (URL2) that indicates a resource for a DC application or a list of applications (e.g., this could be an HTML page). DCAR is a web server where applications, i.e., HTML pages, can be stored and retrieved.

[0162] At point 5, DCSF provides URLs and other data to IMS AS.

[0163] At 6 locations, IMS AS performs DCMF or enhanced MRF discovery.

[0164] At point 7, DCSF contacts DCMF to establish media resources for the boot channel.

[0165] The SDP negotiation for the data channel is completed. As part of the SDP negotiation, the IMS AS sends the URL and other relevant data (e.g., endpoints of DCMF media resources) to the UE.

[0166] At point 24, a pilot data channel is established between UE#1 and DCMF via signaling between UE, IMS AS, and DCSF. UE#1 sends an HTTP request message with the received URL1 to DCMF via the pilot DC.

[0167] When the DCMF receives an HTTP request message, it sends an HTTP message to the DCAR, DCSF, or any other network server indicated in URL1 to download the application or application list to the UE.

[0168] The UE receives the application or application list in response to the HTTP request message via the guiding DC.

[0169] Similarly, at point 25, a bootstrapping data channel is established between the terminal network / UE#2 and the DCMF via signaling between the UE, IMS AS, and DCSF. The terminal network / UE#2 sends an HTTP request message with the received URL3 to the DCMF via the bootstrapping DC.

[0170] When DCMF receives an HTTP request message, it sends an HTTP message to DCAR, DCSF, or any other network server indicated in URL2 to download the application or application list to the terminal network / UE#2.

[0171] The terminal network / UE#2 receives the application or application list in response to the HTTP request message via the guiding DC.

[0172] An apparatus may include: components for receiving from a user equipment a request for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; components for determining, based on the attributes, an address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or a list of applications for the user equipment; and components for using the address to provide at least one application or a list of applications to the user equipment via the bootstrap data channel.

[0173] The device may include, can be, or may be included in a network function or chipset for performing at least some of the actions of the network function. The network function may be a DCSF, a DCAR, or a network server.

[0174] Alternatively, an apparatus may include components for: providing a request from a user equipment to a network function for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; receiving an address in response to the request, the address indicating: a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrap channel, the address being determined based on the attributes; and providing the received address with a request from the user equipment for at least one application or list of applications.

[0175] The device may include user equipment (such as a mobile phone), may be a user device, or may be included in a user device or chipset for performing at least some of the actions of the user device.

[0176] It should be understood that the device may include or be coupled to other units or modules, such as radio sections or radio heads for transmission and / or reception. Although the device has been described as a single entity, different modules and memories may be implemented in one or more physical or logical entities.

[0177] It should be noted that while some embodiments have been described for 5G networks, similar principles can be applied to other networks and communication systems. Therefore, although some embodiments have been described above by way of example with reference to certain example architectures for wireless networks, technologies, and standards, these embodiments can be applied to any other suitable form of communication system besides those shown and described herein.

[0178] It should also be noted in this document that although exemplary embodiments have been described above, various changes and modifications can be made to the disclosed solutions without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0179] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording (where a list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”) means at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements.

[0180] Generally, the various embodiments can be implemented in hardware or a dedicated circuit system, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software, which can be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Although various aspects of this disclosure may be shown and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other graphical representation, it is readily understood that, by way of non-limiting example, the blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or a controller or other computing device, or some combination thereof.

[0181] As used in this application, the term "circuit system" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0182] (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation in analog and / or digital circuit systems only), and

[0183] (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable):

[0184] (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuit systems with software / firmware, and

[0185] (ii) Any part of (multiple) hardware processors having software (including (multiple)

[0186] Digital signal processors, software, and (multiple) memory units, which work together to enable devices such as mobile phones or servers to perform various functions, and

[0187] (c) Multiple hardware circuits and / or multiple processors, such as multiple microprocessors or a portion thereof, that require software (e.g., firmware).

[0188] The software can be used to perform operations, but it may not exist when no operation is needed.

[0189] This definition of "circuit system" applies to all uses of the term in this application (including in any claim). As another example, as used herein, the term "circuit system" also covers implementations of only hardware circuitry or a processor (or processors) or a portion thereof, and its accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, if applicable to a particular claim element, the term "circuit system" also covers baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0190] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented by computer software executable by a data processor of a mobile device (such as in a processor entity), by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. Computer software or programs (also referred to as program products, including software routines, applets, and / or macros) can be stored in any device-readable data storage medium, and they include program instructions for performing specific tasks. A computer program product may include one or more computer-executable components that, when the program is run, are configured to perform the embodiments. The one or more computer-executable components may be at least one piece of software code or a portion thereof.

[0191] Furthermore, it should be noted in this regard that any box in the logic flow shown in the figure can represent a program step, or an interconnected logic circuit, box and function, or a combination of program steps and logic circuits, boxes and functions. Software can be stored on physical media implemented within a processor, such as memory chips or memory blocks; magnetic media, such as hard disks or floppy disks; and optical media, such as DVDs and their data variants, CDs. The physical medium is a non-transient medium. As used herein, the term "non-transient" refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0192] The memory can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can 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 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and, by way of non-limiting example, can include one or more of the following: general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), FPGAs, gate-level circuits, and processors based on multi-core processor architectures.

[0193] The embodiments of this disclosure can be practiced in a variety of components, such as integrated circuit modules. The design of integrated circuits is largely a highly automated process. Complex and powerful software tools can be used to transform logic-level designs into semiconductor circuit designs ready for etching and formation on a semiconductor substrate.

[0194] The independent claims define the scope of protection sought by the various embodiments of this disclosure. Embodiments and features (if any) described in this specification that are not within the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples that aid in understanding the various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0195] The foregoing description has provided a complete and informative description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure by way of non-limiting examples. However, various modifications and adjustments will be apparent to those skilled in the art when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims, given the foregoing description. Nevertheless, all such and similar modifications to the teachings of this disclosure will still fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. In fact, there are other embodiments, including combinations of one or more embodiments with any other embodiments discussed above.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: A component for receiving from a user equipment a request to establish a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; A component for determining, based on the attribute, the address of a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications for the user device; as well as A component for providing the user equipment with the at least one application or the list of applications via the boot data channel using the address.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: A component for receiving the request from the user equipment via an application server.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising: A component used to provide the address to the user equipment.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, comprising: A component used to provide the address to the user equipment via an application server.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the address is provided to the user equipment in a session description protocol message.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: The component is for determining, based on the attribute, an additional address indicating a resource associated with the at least one application or the list of applications for the terminal device, and the component is for providing the additional address to the terminal device.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: A component used to provide the address to the data channel media function.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein a request for the at least one application or the list of applications is directed from the user equipment to the address by the data channel media function.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the request for the at least one application or the list of applications includes a pre-configured address.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: A component for receiving an identifier associated with the boot data channel from the data channel media function, and a component for associating the identifier with the address.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, comprising: A component for receiving a request for the address from the data channel media function, the request including the identifier.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, comprising: A component for providing the address to the data channel media function based on the identifier.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein a request for the at least one application or the list of applications is directed from the user equipment to the address by the data channel media function.

14. The apparatus of claim 10, comprising: A component for receiving a request from the user equipment via the data channel media function for the at least one application or the list of applications, the request including the identifier; And components for directing the request to the address based on the identifier.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the apparatus comprises: Data channel application repository, or data channel signaling function, or network server.

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the address includes a Uniform Resource Locator.

17. An apparatus comprising: A component for providing a request from a user equipment to a network function for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; A component for receiving an address in response to the request, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the boot channel, the address being determined based on the attribute; as well as A component for providing a request from the user device for the at least one application or the list of applications to the received address.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, comprising: A component for providing the request for establishing a bootstrap data channel from the user equipment via an application server.

19. The apparatus according to claim 17 or claim 18, comprising: A component for receiving the address at the user equipment via an application server.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, comprising: A component for receiving the address in a Session Description Protocol message at the user equipment.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the network function includes: Data channel application repository, or data channel signaling function, or network server.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the address includes a Uniform Resource Locator.

23. A method comprising: Receive a request from the user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; Based on the attribute, determine the address of a resource that is associated with at least one application or list of applications for the user device; as well as The address is used to provide the user equipment with the at least one application or the list of applications via the boot data channel.

24. A method comprising: A request from a user equipment is provided to a network function for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; In response to the request, an address is received, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrapping channel, the address being determined based on the attribute; as well as The received address provides a request from the user device for the at least one application or the list of applications.

25. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, said instructions, when executed by said at least one processor, cause the means to at least: Receive a request from the user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; Based on the attribute, determine the address of a resource that is associated with at least one application or list of applications for the user device; as well as The address is used to provide the user equipment with the at least one application or the list of applications via the boot data channel.

26. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, said instructions, when executed by said at least one processor, cause the means to at least: A request from a user equipment is provided to a network function for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; In response to the request, an address is received, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrapping channel, the address being determined based on the attribute; as well as The received address provides a request from the user device for the at least one application or the list of applications.

27. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a means, cause the means to perform at least the following: Receive a request from the user equipment for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; Based on the attribute, determine the address of a resource that is associated with at least one application or list of applications for the user device; as well as The address is used to provide the user equipment with the at least one application or the list of applications via the boot data channel.

28. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the following: A request from a user equipment is provided to a network function for establishing a bootstrap data channel with a data channel server, the request including attributes associated with the user equipment; In response to the request, an address is received, the address indicating a resource associated with at least one application or list of applications to be provided to the user equipment via the bootstrapping channel, the address being determined based on the attribute; as well as The received address provides a request from the user device for the at least one application or the list of applications.

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