Apparatus, method, and computer program to switch a user equipment between access networks

Abstract

Various embodiments of this disclosure relate to a method, an apparatus and a computer program for a communication system For example, there is provided a method comprising: registering, by a user equipment, to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS, METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM TO SWITCH A USER EQUIPMENT BETWEEN ACCESS NETWORKS

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] Various embodiments of this disclosure relate to a method, an apparatus and a computer program for a communication system, and in particular - but not exclusively - a method, an apparatus and a computer program for managing a user equipment a communication system.

[0004] Background

[0005] A communication system can be seen as a facility that enables communication sessions between two or more entities such as communication devices, base stations and / or other nodes by providing carriers between the various entities involved in the communications path.

[0006] The communication system and associated entities typically operate in accordance with a given standard(s) or specification(s) which set forth what the associated entities are permitted to do and how that should be achieved. Communication protocols and / or parameters which shall be used for the connection are also typically defined. Examples of standard(s) include the so-called 5G standards.

[0007] Summary

[0008] Some embodiments of this disclosure will be described with respect to certain aspects. These aspects are not intended to indicate key or essential features of the various embodiments of this disclosure, nor are they intended to be used to limit the scope of thereof. Other features, aspects, and elements will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art in view of this disclosure. For example, it should be appreciated that further aspects may be provided by the combination of any two or more of the various aspects described herein.

[0009] According to an aspect, there is provided a method comprising: registering, by a user equipment, to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. The method may comprise: deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0010] Deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on at least one of rules or capabilities of the user equipment.

[0011] The method may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0012] Transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0013] Transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function via a performance measurement functionality protocol message or signaling, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0014] Transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0015] Transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function via a non access stratum session management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0016] Transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0017] Transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function via a mobility management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0018] The method may comprise: receiving, by the user equipment, updated rules to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the updated rules.

[0019] The method may comprise: receiving, by the user equipment, a notification to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the notification.

[0020] The method may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. Transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0021] Transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function via mobility management signaling, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0022] Transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0023] T ransmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function via a session management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0024] Transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to the first access network or the second access network, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0025] The information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may be conveyed via a flag.

[0026] The method may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating one of a plurality of options for switching from using the first access network to the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0027] The first access network may comprise a cellular access network and the second access network may comprise a cellular access network.

[0028] A cellular access network may comprise at least one of a 4G, 5G or 6G access network.

[0029] The user equipment may be a dual steer device.

[0030] Registering to the first access network may use a first subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity and registering to the second access network may use a second subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity.

[0031] According to an aspect, there is provided a user equipment comprising: means for registering to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0032] The user equipment may comprise: means for deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0033] Means for deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on at least one of rules or capabilities of the user equipment.

[0034] The user equipment may comprise: means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0035] Means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0036] Means for transmitting, to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a user plane function via a performance measurement functionality protocol message or signaling, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0037] Means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0038] Means for transmitting, to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function via a non access stratum session management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0039] Means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0040] Means for transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function via a mobility management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0041] The user equipment may comprise: means for receiving updated rules to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the updated rules.

[0042] The user equipment may comprise: means for receiving a notification to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the notification.

[0043] The user equipment may comprise: means for transmitting information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0044] Means for transmitting information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. Means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function via mobility management signaling, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0045] Means for transmitting information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0046] Means for transmitting, to a session management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function via a session management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0047] Means for transmitting information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to the first access network or the second access network, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0048] The information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may be conveyed via a flag.

[0049] The user equipment may comprise: means for transmitting information indicating one of a plurality of options for switching from using the first access network to the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. The first access network may comprise a cellular access network and the second access network may comprise a cellular access network.

[0050] A cellular access network may comprise at least one of a 4G, 5G or 6G access network.

[0051] The user equipment may be a dual steer device.

[0052] Means for registering to the first access network may use a first subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity and registering to the second access network may use a second subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity.

[0053] According to an aspect, there is provided a user equipment comprising circuitry configured to perform: registering to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0054] According to an aspect, there is provided a user equipment comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the UE at least to perform: registering to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0055] According to an aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising computer executable code which when run on at least one processor is configured to perform: registering to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0056] According to an aspect, there is provided a method comprising: registering, by a user equipment, to a first access network and a second access network; transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0057] Deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on at least one of rules or capabilities of the user equipment.

[0058] The method may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0059] Transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0060] Transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function via a performance measurement functionality protocol signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0061] Transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. Transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function via a non access stratum session management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0062] Transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0063] Transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function via a mobility management signaling, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data

[0064] The method may comprise: receiving, by the user equipment, updated rules to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the updated rules.

[0065] The method may comprise: receiving, by the user equipment, a notification to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the notification.

[0066] Transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0067] Transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function via mobility management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0068] Transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0069] T ransmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function via a session management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0070] Transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment to the first access network or the second access network, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. The information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data is conveyed via a flag.

[0071] The method may comprise: transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating one of a plurality of options for switching from using the first access network to the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0072] The first access network comprises a cellular access network and the second access network comprises a cellular access network.

[0073] A cellular access network may comprise one of a 4G, 5G or 6G access network.

[0074] The user equipment may be a dual steer device.

[0075] Registering to the first access network may use a first subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity and registering to the second access network may use a second subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity.

[0076] According to an aspect, there is provided a user equipment comprising: means for registering to a first access network and a second access network; means for transmitting information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; means for deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0077] Means for deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on at least one of rules or capabilities of the user equipment. The user equipment may comprise: means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0078] Means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0079] Means for transmitting, to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a user plane function via a performance measurement functionality protocol signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0080] Means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0081] Means for transmitting, to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function via a non access stratum session management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0082] Means for transmitting a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. Means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function via a mobility management signaling, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0083] The user equipment may comprise: means for receiving updated rules to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the updated rules.

[0084] The user equipment may comprise: means for receiving a notification to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the notification.

[0085] Means for transmitting information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0086] Means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to an access and mobility management function via mobility management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. Means for transmitting information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0087] Means for transmitting, to a session management function, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to a session management function via a session management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0088] Means for transmitting information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data may comprise: means for transmitting, to the first access network or the second access network, information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0089] The information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data is conveyed via a flag.

[0090] The user equipment may comprise: means for transmitting information indicating one of a plurality of options for switching from using the first access network to the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0091] The first access network comprises a cellular access network and the second access network comprises a cellular access network.

[0092] A cellular access network may comprise one of a 4G, 5G or 6G access network.

[0093] The user equipment may be a dual steer device. Means for registering to the first access network may use a first subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity and registering to the second access network may use a second subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity.

[0094] According to an aspect, there is provided a user equipment comprising circuitry configured to perform: registering to a first access network and a second access network; transmitting information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0095] According to an aspect, there is provided a user equipment comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the UE at least to perform: registering to a first access network and a second access network; transmitting information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0096] According to an aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising computer executable code which when run on at least one processor is configured to perform: registering to a first access network and a second access network; transmitting information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; deciding to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0097] According to an aspect, there is provided a computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least one of the above methods. According to an aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least one of the above methods.

[0098] According to an aspect, there is provided a non-volatile tangible memory medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least one of the above methods.

[0099] In the above, many different aspects have been described. As previously noted, it should be appreciated that further aspects may be provided by the combination of any two or more of the aspects described above (or otherwise in this disclosure).

[0100] Various other aspects are also described in the following detailed description and in the claims.

[0101] List of Abbreviations

[0102] AF: Application Function

[0103] AMF: Access and Mobility Management Function

[0104] ATSSS: Access Traffic Steering, Switching and Splitting

[0105] ALISF: Authentication Server Function

[0106] BS: Base Station

[0107] CDR: Charging Data Record

[0108] CHF: Charging Function

[0109] CU: Centralized Unit

[0110] DL: Downlink

[0111] DN: Data Network

[0112] DU: Distributed Unit gNB: gNodeB

[0113] IMSI: International Mobile Subscriber Identifier

[0114] MS: Mobile Station

[0115] NEF: Network Exposure Function

[0116] NR: New radio

[0117] PCF: Policy Control Function

[0118] PDU: Packet Data Unit

[0119] PLMN: Public Land Mobile Network

[0120] RAM: Random Access Memory RAN: Radio Access Network

[0121] ROM: Read Only Memory

[0122] RS: Reference Signal

[0123] SMF: Session Management Function

[0124] SUPI: Subscription Permanent Identifier

[0125] UDM: Unified Data Management

[0126] UE: User Equipment

[0127] UL: Uplink

[0128] UPF: User Plane Function

[0129] 5G: 5thGeneration

[0130] 5GC: 5G Core Network

[0131] 5GS: 5G System

[0132] Brief Description of the Figures

[0133] Some embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting and example only, with reference to the Figures in which:

[0134] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a communication system;

[0135] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a control apparatus;

[0136] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a user equipment;

[0137] Fig.4 shows a schematic representation of a user equipment registered to a first access network and to a second access network;

[0138] Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b show a signalling diagram of a process for managing a user equipment in a communication system according to a first option;

[0139] Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b show a signalling diagram of a process for managing a user equipment in a communication system according to a second option;

[0140] Fig. 7 shows a signalling diagram of a process for managing a user equipment in a communication system according to a third option; Fig. 8 shows a block diagram of a method for managing a user equipment in a communication system;

[0141] Fig. 9 shows a block diagram of a method for managing a user equipment in a communication system; and

[0142] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a non-volatile memory medium storing instructions which when executed by a processor enable, allow, or otherwise facilitate a processor to perform one or more of the steps of the methods of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9.

[0143] Detailed Description

[0144] Before explaining in detail the embodiments, certain principles of a wireless communication system, access systems thereof, and communication devices are briefly explained with reference to Fig. 1 , Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 to assist in understanding the technology underlying the described examples.

[0145] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a communication system. The communication system may comprise a user equipment (UE), a 5G system (5GS), an application function (AF) and a data network (DN).

[0146] In this disclosure, the expressions 5G and NR may be used interchangeably.

[0147] The 5GS may comprise multiple public land mobile networks (PLMNs). Each PLMN may comprise a 5G radio access network (5G RAN) and a 5G core network (5GC).

[0148] The 5G RAN may comprise one or more base stations. A base station may be a gNodeB (gNB). A gNB may comprise gNB distributed units (gNB-DUs) connected to one or more gNB centralized units (gNB-CUs).

[0149] The 5GC may comprise one or more of an authentication server function (ALISF), a user data management (UDM), a network exposure function (NEF), an access and mobility management function (AMF), a session management function (SMF) and a user plane function (UPF). The 5GC may comprise a policy control function (PCF) (not represented). Fig. 2 illustrates an example of a control apparatus 200 for controlling a function of the RAN illustrated in Fig. 1. The control apparatus 200 may comprise at least one random access memory (RAM) 211a, at least on read only memory (ROM) 211 b, 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 an appropriate software code 215. The software code 215 may, for example, enable, allow, or otherwise facilitate to perform one or more steps to perform one or more of the embodiments (or aspects thereof) described in this disclosure. The software code 215 may be stored in the ROM 211 b. The control apparatus 200 may be interconnected with another control apparatus 200 controlling another function of the 5G RAN or the 5GC. In some embodiments, each RAN comprises a control apparatus 200. In alternative embodiments, two or more RANs may share a control apparatus.

[0150] Fig. 3 illustrates an example of a UE 300, such as the UE illustrated on Fig. 1. The UE 300 is a communication device that is capable of (or configured for) sending and receiving radio signals. Non-limiting and illustrative examples comprise a mobile station (MS) or mobile device, such as a mobile phone or what is known as a ’smart phone’, a computer provided with a wireless interface card or other wireless interface facility (e.g., USB dongle), a personal data assistant (PDA) or a tablet provided with wireless communication capabilities, a machinetype communications (MTC) device, a Cellular Internet of Things (CloT) device or any combinations of these or the like. The UE 300 may provide, for example, communication of data for carrying communications. The communications may be one or more of voice, electronic mail (email), text message, multimedia, data, machine data and so on.

[0151] The UE 300 may receive signals over an air or radio interface 307 via appropriate apparatus for receiving and may transmit signals via appropriate apparatus for transmitting radio signals. In Fig. 3 transceiver apparatus is designated schematically by block 306. The transceiver apparatus 306 may be provided for example by means of a radio part and associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement may be arranged internally and / or externally to the mobile device.

[0152] The UE 300 may comprise at least one processor 301 , at least one memory ROM 302a, at least one RAM 302b and other possible components 303 for use in software and hardware aided execution of tasks it is designed to perform, including control of access to and communications 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 an appropriate software code 308. The software code 308 may, for example, enable, allow, or otherwise facilitate to perform one or more of the embodiments (or aspects thereof) described in this disclosure. The software code 308 may be stored in the ROM 302a.

[0153] The processor, storage and other relevant control apparatus can be provided on an appropriate circuit board and / or in chipsets. This feature is denoted by reference 304. The device may optionally have a user interface, such as keypad 305, touch sensitive screen or pad, combinations thereof or the like. Optionally, one or more of a display, a speaker and / or a microphone may be provided depending on the type of the device.

[0154] As previously noted, various embodiments of this disclosure relate to a method, an apparatus and a computer program for a communication system, and in particular - but not exclusively - a method, an apparatus and a computer program for managing a user equipment a communication system.

[0155] In some embodiments, a UE may refer to a dual steer device and therefore may refer to a single UE (i.e. , single apparatus) hosting two subscriptions or may refer to two UEs (i.e., two apparatuses) where each of the UEs host a separate subscription.

[0156] Fig. 4 shows schematic representation of a UE.

[0157] The UE may host separate universal subscriber identity module (USIM) cards referred to as UE1 and UE2. In this manner, the UE may host separate subscriptions. The UE may comprise a dual steer layer configured to control a dual steer functionality of UE1 and UE2.

[0158] The UE may have a first subscription permanent identifier (SUPI) or a first international mobile subscriber identity (I MSI). The UE may be registered to a first access network based on the first SUPI or the first IMSI. The first access network may be a first cellular access network (e.g., 5G RAN). The UE may establish one or more first packet data unit (PDU) sessions with a core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The UE may have a second SlIPI or a second I MSI. The UE may be registered to a second access network based on the second SLIPI or the second I MSI. The second access network may be a second cellular access network (e.g., 5G RAN). The UE may establish one or more second PDU sessions with the core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0159] The one or more first PDU sessions and the one or more second PDU sessions may be anchored by a single UPF. The UPF may be part of a home public land mobile network (HPLMN) or a public network integrated non-public network (PNI-NPN).

[0160] The UE may not support simultaneous transmission and reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network. That is, the UE may either transmit and receive user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU sessions) over the first access network or may transmit and receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second PDU sessions) over the second access network.

[0161] In other words, the UE may not be able to simultaneously transmit uplink user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU sessions) over the first access network and receive downlink user data (e.g., via the one or more second PDU sessions) over the second access network. The UE may not be able to simultaneously receive downlink user data (e.g., via the one or more second PDU sessions) over the first access network and transmit uplink user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU sessions) over the second access network.

[0162] One or more embodiments (or aspects thereof) of this disclosure relates to managing a UE in a communication system, in particular when the UE or the core network decides to switch from using the first access network for transmission and / or reception of user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU sessions) to using the second access network for transmission and / or reception of user data (e.g., via the one or more second PDU sessions).

[0163] It will be understood that although, one or more embodiments (or aspects thereof) relate to cellular access networks (e.g., 3GPP access network), one or more other embodiments (or aspects thereof) may relate to non-cellular access networks (e.g., non-3GPP access networks). It will be understood that although, one or more embodiments (or aspects thereof) relate to 5G access networks (e.g., 5G RAN), one or more other embodiments (or aspects thereof) may relate to other cellular access networks (e.g., 4G RAN or 6G RAN).

[0164] In the following, three options are described.

[0165] In a first option, the UE may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network for transmission and / or reception of user data. The UE may not wait for a confirmation from the core network to use the second access network for transmission and / or reception of user data.

[0166] In a second option, the UE may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network for transmission and / or reception of user data. The UE may wait for a confirmation from the core network to use the second access network for transmission and / or reception of user data.

[0167] In a third option, the core network may decide to switch from using the first access network for transmission and / or reception of user data to using the second access network for transmission and / or reception of user data.

[0168] Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b show a signalling diagram of a process for managing a UE in a communication system according to the first option.

[0169] At step Oa, the UE may register to a first access network (e.g., 3GPP access network 1). The UE may establish one or more first PDU sessions (e.g., one or more PDU1) with a core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network.

[0170] At step Ob, the UE may register to a second access network (e.g., 3GPP access network 2). The UE may establish one or more second PDU sessions (e.g., one or more PDU2) with the core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0171] The UE may not support simultaneous transmission and / or reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network. As used herein, the term simultaneous is intended to encompass both the meaning of simultaneous (e.g., “in unison with”, “in the same way,” “occurring at the same time”) as well as the meaning of concurrent (e.g., “occurring at the same time”).

[0172] The UE may store rules. The rules may be configured to use the first access network to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The rules may be configured to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data when at least one criterion is met. The criterion may, for example, comprise a state or performance of a user plane, a state or performance of the first access network and / or a state or performance of the second access network. The rules may comprise dual steer or access traffic steering switching and splitting (ATSSS) rules.

[0173] It will be understood that the criterion may be met only for part the user data (e.g., uplink user data or downlink user data). As the dual steer device may have hardware restriction (i.e. , the UE may not support simultaneous transmission and / or reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network), the UE may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit even when the criterion is met only for part the user data (e.g., uplink user data or downlink user data).

[0174] The UPF may store rules. The rules may be configured to use the first access network to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The rules may be data forwarding rules. The rules may comprise N4 rules.

[0175] The UE may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU session) over the first access network based on the rules stored at the UE.

[0176] At step 1 , the UE may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The decision may be based on the rules stored at the UE and / or capabilities of the UE.

[0177] At step 2, the UE may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second sessions) over the second access network.

[0178] At step 3, the UE may transmit, to the core network, a notification to perform the switching (i.e., the switch) from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. In some embodiments, at step 3a, the UE may transmit, to the UPF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The notification may be transmitted via a performance measurement functionality protocol signaling message. The performance measurement functionality protocol may run over the user plane of each of the second PDU session.

[0179] At step 4a, the UPF may generate updated rules to be used by the UPF. The updated rules may be set to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0180] At step 5a, the UPF may transmit, to the SMF, a notification related with UPF performing the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The SMF may use this information to notify network functions, such as a policy control function (PCF) or a charging function (CF). For example, the CHF may store in a charging data record (CDR) that now traffic is exchanged over the second access network (in relationship with the second SUPI or second IMSI of the UE).

[0181] In another embodiment, at step 3b, the UE may transmit, to one or more SMF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The notification may be transmitted via a non- access stratum session management signaling message (e.g., PDU session modification signaling message).

[0182] At step 4b, the SMF may generate updated rules to be used by the UPF. The updated rules may be configured to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0183] At step 5b, the SMF may transmit, to the UPF, the updated rules. Alternatively, the SMF may transmit, to the UPF, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0184] In another embodiment, at step 3c, the UE may transmit, to the AMF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The notification may be transmitted via a mobility management signaling message (e.g., mobility registration signaling message). At step 4c, the AMF may find out (e.g., discover) one or more SMF affected by the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0185] At step 4c, the AMF may transmit, to the one or more SMF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0186] At step 5c, the one or more SMF may generate updated rules to be used by the UPF. The updated rules may be configured to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0187] At step 5c, the one or more SMF may transmit, to the UPF, the updated rules. Alternatively, the one or more SMF may transmit, to the UPF, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0188] The UPF may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second sessions) over the second access network based on the updated rules.

[0189] Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b show a signalling diagram of a process for managing a UE in a communication system according to the second option.

[0190] At step Oa, the UE may register to a first access network (e.g., 3GPP access network 1). The UE may establish one or more first PDU sessions (e.g., one or more PDU1) with a core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network.

[0191] At step Ob, the UE may register to a second access network (e.g., 3GPP access network 2). The UE may establish one or more second PDU sessions (e.g., one or more PDU2) with the core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0192] The UE may not support simultaneous transmission and / or reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network. As used herein, the term simultaneous is intended to encompass both the meaning of simultaneous (e.g., “in unison with”, “in parallel,” “occurring at the same time”) as well as the meaning of concurrent (e.g., “occurring at the same time”).

[0193] The UE may store rules. The rules stored at the UE may be configured to use the first access network to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The rules stored at the UE may be configured to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data when at least one criterion is met (e.g., based on at least one criterion being met). The criterion may, for example, comprise a state or performance of a user plane, a state or performance of the first access network and / or a state or performance of the second access network. The one or more first rules may comprise dual steer or ATSSS rules.

[0194] In some embodiments, it will be understood that the criterion may be met only for part the user data (e.g., uplink user data or downlink user data). As the dual steer device may have hardware restriction (i.e. , the UE may not support simultaneous transmission and / or reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network), the UPF may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit even when the criterion is met only for part the user data (e.g., uplink user data or downlink user data).

[0195] The UPF may store rules. The rules may be configured to use the first access network to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The rules may be data forwarding rules. The rules may comprise N4 rules.

[0196] The UE may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU session) over the first access network based on the rules stored at the UE.

[0197] At step 1 , the UE may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The decision may be based on the rules stored at the UE and / or capabilities of the UE.

[0198] At step 2, the UE may transmit, to the core network, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. In some embodiments, at step 2a, the UE may transmit, to the UPF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The notification may be transmitted via a performance measurement functionality protocol signaling message. The performance measurement functionality protocol may run over the user plane of each of the second PDU session.

[0199] At step 2a, the UPF may transmit, to the SMF, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The SMF may use this information to notify network functions, such as a PCF or CHF. For example, the CHF may store in a CDR that now traffic is exchanged over the second access network (in relationship with the second SUPI or second IMSI of the UE).

[0200] In another embodiment, at step 2b, the UE may transmit, to one or more SMF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The notification may be transmitted via a non- access stratum session management signaling message (e.g., PDU session modification signaling message).

[0201] In another embodiment, at step 2c, the UE may transmit, to the AMF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The notification may be transmitted via a mobility management signaling message (e.g., mobility registration signaling message).

[0202] At step 2c, the AMF may find out (e.g., discover) one or more SMF affected by the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0203] At step 2c, the AMF may transmit, to the one or more SMF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0204] At step 3, the one or more SMF may generate updated rules to be used by the UE. The updated rules may be configured to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network. The one or more SMF may generate updated rules to be used by the UPF. The updated rules may be configured to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0205] Alternatively, the one or more SMF may generate a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0206] At step 4, the one or more SMF may transmit, to the UPF, the updated rules to be used by the UPF. The one or more SMF may transmit, to the UE, the updated rules to be used by the UE.

[0207] Alternatively, the SMF may transmit, to the UE, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The SMF may transmit, to the UPF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0208] At step 5, the UE may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second session) over the second access network based on the updated rules. The UPF may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second session) over the second access network based on the updated rules.

[0209] Fig. 7 shows a signalling diagram of a process for managing a UE in a communication system according to the third option.

[0210] At step Oa, the UE may register to a first access network (e.g., 3GPP access network 1). The UE may establish one or more first PDU sessions (e.g., one or more PDU1) with a core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network.

[0211] At step Ob, the UE may register to a second access network (e.g., 3GPP access network 2). The UE may establish one or more second PDU sessions (e.g., one or more PDU2) with the core network (e.g., 5GC) to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0212] The UE may not support simultaneous transmission and / or reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network. As used herein, the term simultaneous is intended to encompass both the meaning of simultaneous (e.g., “in unison with”, “in parallel,” “occurring at the same time”) as well as the meaning of concurrent (e.g., “occurring at the same time”).

[0213] The UE may store rules. The rules may be configured to use the first access network to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The one or more first rules may comprise dual steer or ATSSS rules.

[0214] The UE may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more first PDU session) over the first access network based on the rules.

[0215] The UPF may store rules. The rules may be configured to use the first access network to transmit and / or receive user data over the first access network. The rules may be configured to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data when at least one criterion is met (e.g., based on at least one criterion being met). The criterion may, for example, comprise a state or performance of a user plane, a state or performance of the first access network and / or a state or performance of the second access network. The rules may be data forwarding rules. The rules may comprise N4 rules.

[0216] In some embodiments, it will be understood that the criterion may be met only for part the user data (e.g., uplink user data or downlink user data). As the dual steer device may have hardware restriction (i.e. , the UE may not support simultaneous transmission and / or reception of user data over the first access network and the second access network), the UPF may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit even when the criterion is met only for part the user data (e.g., uplink user data or downlink user data).

[0217] At step 1 , the UPF may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The decision may be based on the rules stored at the UPF and / or network policies.

[0218] At step 2, the UPF may transmit, to one or more SMF, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. At step 3, the one or more SMF may generate updated rules to be used by the UE. The updated rules may be configured to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network. The one or more SMF may generate updated rules to used by the UPF. The updated rules may be configured to transmit and / or receive user data over the second access network.

[0219] Alternatively, the one or more SMF may generate a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0220] At step 4, the one or more SMF may transmit, to the UPF, the updated rules to be used by the UPF. The one or more SMF may transmit, to the UE, the updated rules to be used by the UE.

[0221] Alternatively, the SMF may transmit, to the UE, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The SMF may transmit, to the UPF, the notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0222] At step 5, the UE may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second session) over the second access network based on the updated rules. The UPF may transmit and / or receive user data (e.g., via the one or more second session) over the second access network based on the updated rules.

[0223] Additionally or alternatively, in the first option, the second option or the third option, the UE may transmit, to the core network, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data.

[0224] In some embodiments, the UE may transmit, to the AMF, the information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The information may be transmitted via mobility management signaling message or during packet data unit session establishment (e.g., via an uplink non access transport signaling message). The information may be transmitted via a flag. The AMF may transmit the information to the one or more SMF. The one or more SMF may transmit the information to the PCF. In another embodiment, the UE may transmit, to one or more SMF, the information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The information may be transmitted via a session management signaling message or during packet data unit session establishment (e.g., via a PDU session establishment request signaling message). The information may be transmitted via a flag. The one or more SMF may transmit the information to the PCF.

[0225] In another embodiment, the UE may transmit, to the first access network or the second access network, the information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to transmit and / or receive user data. The information may be transmitted via an uplink signaling message. The information may be transmitted via a flag. The first access network or the second access network may transmit the information to the AMF via a non access stratum message. The AMF may transmit the information to the one or more SMF. The one or more SMF may transmit the information to the PCF.

[0226] The one or more SMF or PCF may use the information to generate updated rules to be used by the UE and / or the UPF (e.g. traffic splitting to be disabled or redundant steering to be disabled). The one or more SMF or PCF may transmit, to the UE or the UPF, the updated rules.

[0227] Additionally or alternatively, in the first option, the second option or the third option, the UE may transmit, to the core network, information indicating the first option, the second option or the third option for switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0228] Fig. 8 shows a block diagram of a method for managing a UE in a communication system.

[0229] At step 802, the UE may register to a first access network and a second access network.

[0230] At step 804, the UE may, following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data. Fig. 9 shows a block diagram of a method for managing a UE in a communication system.

[0231] At step 902, the UE may register to a first access network and a second access network.

[0232] At step 904, the UE may transmit information indicating an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0233] At step 906, the UE may decide to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0234] At step 908, the UE may use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

[0235] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a non-volatile memory medium storing instructions which when executed by at least one processor allow the at least one processor to perform one or more of the steps of the methods of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9.

[0236] It is noted that while the various embodiments are described in this disclosure, there are several variations and modifications which may be made herein without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0237] The embodiments described herein may thus vary within the scope of the claims. In general, some embodiments may be implemented in hardware or special purpose circuits, software, logic or any combination thereof. For example, some embodiments (or aspects thereof) may be implemented in hardware, while other embodiments (or aspects thereof) may be implemented in firmware or software which may be executed by a controller, microprocessor or other computing device, although the various embodiments are not limited thereto. While the various embodiments described herein may be illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other pictorial representation, it is understood that these blocks, apparatus, systems, techniques or methods described herein may be implemented in, as non-limiting and illustrative examples, hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller or other computing devices, or some combination thereof. The various embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented by computer software stored in a memory and executable by at least one data processor of the involved entities or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. Further in this regard, it should be noted that any procedures, e.g., as in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, may represent program steps, or interconnected logic circuits, blocks and functions, or a combination of program steps and logic circuits, blocks and functions. The software may be stored on such physical media as memory chips, or memory blocks implemented within the processor, magnetic media, such as hard disk or floppy disks, and optical media, such as, for example, DVD and the data variants thereof, CD.

[0238] The term “non-transitory”, as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e. tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g. RAM vs ROM).

[0239] The memory may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and removable memory. The data processors may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment, and may include one or more of general purpose computers, special purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), gate level circuits and processors based on multi-core processor architecture, as non-limiting and illustrative examples.

[0240] As used herein, “at least one of the following:” and “at least one of: ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements are joined by “and”, or “or”, mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0241] As used herein, the expression “and / or” also includes any and all combinations of the listed terms, including at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0242] As used herein, the term “or” refers to a non-exclusive “or” unless otherwise indicated (e.g., use of “or else” or “or in the alternative”). As used herein, unless stated explicitly, performing a respective feature, step, or functionality “in response to A” does not indicate that the respective feature, step, or functionality is performed immediately after “A” occurs as one or more intervening features, steps, or functionalities may be performed (at least in part) between an occurrence of the respective feature, step, or function and “A”. Analogously, performing a respective feature, step, or functionality “based on A” does not indicate that the respective feature, step, or functionality is performed solely based on “A” as the respective feature, step, or functionality may be further based on one or more other features, steps, or functionalities in addition to “A”.

[0243] As used herein, the term “means for”, or “means configured to perform” (or similar) may be any means that are suitable for performing the feature. The “means” may be configured to perform one or more of the functions and / or method steps previously described. For example, the “means” may include one or more of: at least one processor, at least one memory, transceiver circuitry, antenna circuitry, etc. It should be understood that these are provided as non-limiting and illustrative examples.

[0244] Alternatively or additionally, some embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented using circuitry. The circuitry may be configured to perform one or more of the functions and / or method steps described herein. The circuitry may be provided in a base station and / or in a user equipment.

[0245] As used herein, the term “circuitry” may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0246] (a) hardware-only circuits (such as only analogue and / or digital circuits);

[0247] (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as:

[0248] (i) a combination of analogue and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and

[0249] (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as the communications device or base station to perform the various functions previously described; and

[0250] (c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation. This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term “means” herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used herein, the term circuitry also covers an embodiment of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example integrated device(s).

[0251] The foregoing description has provided, by way of exemplary and non-limiting and illustrative examples, a full and informative description of the various embodiments of this disclosure. However, various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art(s) in view of the foregoing description, when read in conjunction with the drawings and the claims. However, all such and similar modifications of the teachings herein are intended to still fall within the scope of this disclosure. For example, it should be appreciated that further embodiments may be provided by the combination of any two or more of the various embodiments described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method comprising: registering, by a user equipment, to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

2. The method of claim 1 , comprising: deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: deciding, by the user equipment, to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on at least one of rules or capabilities of the user equipment.

4. The method of claim 2 or claim 3, comprising: transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises:transmitting, by the user equipment to a user plane function via a performance measurement functionality protocol message or signaling, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

7. The method of claim 4, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function via a non access stratum session management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

9. The method of claim 4, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, a notification to perform the switching from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function via a mobility management signaling message, a notification to perform the switching fromusing the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.11 . The apparatus of any of claims 1 to 10, comprising: receiving, by the user equipment, updated rules to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and wherein using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the updated rules.

12. The apparatus of any of claims 1 to 11 , comprising: receiving, by the user equipment, a notification to use the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data; and wherein using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: using, by the user equipment, the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data based on the notification.

13. The apparatus of any of claims 1 to 12, comprising: transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises:transmitting, by the user equipment to an access and mobility management function via mobility management signaling, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to a session management function via a session management signaling message, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data comprises: transmitting, by the user equipment to the first access network or the second access network, information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

19. The apparatus of any of claims 13 to 18, wherein the information indicating a capability or an incapability to simultaneously use the first access network and the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data is conveyed via a flag.

20. The method of any of claims 1 to 19, comprising:transmitting, by the user equipment, information indicating one of a plurality of options for switching from using the first access network to the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

21. The method of any of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first access network comprises a cellular access network and the second access network comprises a cellular access network.

22. The method of claim 21 , wherein a cellular access network comprises one of a 4G, 5G or 6G access network.

23. The method of any of claims 1 to 22, wherein the user equipment is a dual steer device.

24. The method of any of claims 1 to 23, wherein registering to the first access network uses a first subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity and registering to the second access network uses a second subscriber permanent identifier or international mobile subscription identity.

25. A user equipment comprising: means for registering to a first access network and a second access network; and following a decision to switch from using the first access network to using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data, means for using the second access network to at least one of transmit or receive user data.

26. A computer program product comprising computer executable instructions which when run on one or more processors perform the steps of the method of any of claims 1 to 24.

Images