Multicast-broadcast broadcast session to outbound roaming user equipment

Abstract

Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for multicast-broadcast service (MBS) session to outbound roaming user equipment (UE). A method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request may indicate a broadcast session as session type. The method may also include determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The method may further include determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the method may include configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

Description

TITLE:MULTICAST-BROADCAST BROADCAST SESSION TO OUTBOUNDROAMING USER EQUIPMENTTECHNICAL FIELD:

[0001] Some example embodiments may generally relate to mobile or wireless telecommunication technology and systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) or fifth generation (5G) new radio (NR) access technology, or 5G beyond, or sixth generation (6G) access technology, or other communications systems. For example, certain example embodiments may relate to apparatuses, systems, and / or methods for multicast-broadcast service (MBS) session to outbound roaming user equipment (UE).BACKGROUND:

[0002] Examples of mobile or wireless telecommunication technology and systems may include the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), Long Term Evolution (LTE) Evolved UTRAN (E-UTRAN), LTE- Advanced (LTE-A), MulteFire, LTE-A Pro, fifth generation (5G) radio access technology or new radio (NR) access technology and / or sixth generation (6G) radio access technology. Fifth generation (5G) and sixth generation (6G) wireless systems refer to the next generation (NG) of radio systems and network architecture. 5G and 6G network technology is based on new radio (NR) technology, but the 5G / 6G (or NG) network can also build on E-UTRAN radio. It is estimated that NR may provide bitrates on the order of 10-20 Gbit / s or higher, and may support at least enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) as well as massive machine-type communication (mMTC). NR is expected to deliver extreme broadband and ultra-robust, low- latency connectivity and massive networking to support the Internet of Things (loT).SUMMARY:

[0003] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The method may also include determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The method may further include determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the method may include configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0004] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The apparatus may also be caused to determine whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The apparatus may further be caused to determine the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the apparatus may be caused to configure a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0005] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The apparatus may also include means for determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The apparatus may further include meansfor determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the apparatus may include means for configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0006] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The method may also include determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The method may further include determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the method may include configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0007] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The method may also include determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The method may further include determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the method may include configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0008] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The apparatus may also include circuitryconfigured to determine whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The apparatus may further include circuitry configured to determine the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the apparatus may include circuitry configured to configure a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0009] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The method may also include transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response. The context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, or an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0010] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may also be caused to transmit a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further be caused to receive, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response. The context subscribe response may include least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, or an indication of a multicast broadcast service area,wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an individual delivery area. In addition, the apparatus may be caused to authorize the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0011] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may also include means for transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further include means for receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response. The context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In addition, the apparatus may include means for authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0012] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The method may also include transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response. The context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscriberesponse.

[0013] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The method may also include transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response. The context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0014] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to transmit a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further include circuitry configured to receive, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response. The context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, or an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In addition, the apparatus may include circuitry configured to authorize the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0015] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving, from an application function, a service announcementcomprising information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0016] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also be caused to receive data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. In addition, the apparatus may be caused to receivedata of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0017] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast service session comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also include means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may further include means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0018] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individualdelivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0019] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0020] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast servicesession comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to receive data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may further include circuitry configured to receive data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0021] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individualdelivery area.

[0022] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to send, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also be caused to send, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session indicating an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0023] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also include means for sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service sessionincluding an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0024] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that an individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0025] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, whereinindividual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0026] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to send, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to send, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0027] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobilenetwork where a network element is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the network element is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0028] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. Theapparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also be caused to authorize the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The apparatus may further be caused to, based on the authorization, request the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, orone or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0029] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and at least one additional public land mobile network. In certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The apparatus may further include means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the means for requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session comprise one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request mayinclude at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0030] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where a network element is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, and one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the network element is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequencyselection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0031] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where a network element is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the network element is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of anidentifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0032] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to authorize the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The apparatus may further be caused to, based on the authorization, request the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and the at least one additional public land mobilenetwork(s), wherein the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0033] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element is located. The method may also include authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0034] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. The apparatus may also be caused to authorize the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobilenetworks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further be caused to, based on the authorization, request the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0035] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. The apparatus may also include means for authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further include means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0036] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element is located. The method may also include authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0037] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element is located. The method may also include authorizing the1 request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0038] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to authorize the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further include circuitry configured to, based on the authorization, request the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0039] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element is located, wherein the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The method may also include authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0040] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storinginstructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, wherein the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The apparatus may also be caused to authorize the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The apparatus may further be caused to, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0041] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, wherein the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The apparatus may further include means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0042] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in thepublic land mobile network where a network element is located, wherein the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The method may also include authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0043] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element is located, wherein the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The method may also include authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The method may further include, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0044] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, wherein the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from otherpublic land mobile network. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to authorize the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The apparatus may further include circuitry configured to, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0045] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks, wherein the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0046] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to send, towards a user equipment, a service announcementincluding information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also be caused to send, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks, wherein the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0047] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks,wherein the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0048] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks, wherein the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0049] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about amulticast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks, wherein the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0050] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to send, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to send, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobilenetworks, wherein the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0051] Some example embodiments may be directed to a method. The method may include receiving a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of a network element based on the service announcement. The method may further include, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0052] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, orone or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also be caused to determine whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of the apparatus based on the service announcement. The apparatus may further be caused to, based on the determination, receive data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0053] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of the apparatus based on the service announcement. The apparatus may further include means for, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0054] In accordance with other example embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium may be encoded with instructions that may, when executed in hardware, perform a method. The method may include receiving a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service areaapplicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of a network element based on the service announcement. The method may further include, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0055] Other example embodiments may be directed to a computer program product that performs a method. The method may include receiving a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of a network element based on the service announcement. The method may further include, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0056] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that may include circuitry configured to receive a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public landmobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include circuitry configured to determine whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of the apparatus based on the service announcement. The apparatus may further include circuitry configured to, based on the determination, receive data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

[0057] For proper understanding of example embodiments, reference should be made to the drawings, wherein:

[0058] FIG. 1 illustrates an example signal flow diagram to establish individual delivery, according to certain example embodiments.

[0059] FIG. 2 illustrates an example signal flow diagram of configuring additional public land mobile networks, according to certain example embodiments.

[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0062] FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0063] FIG. 6 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0065] FIG. 8 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0066] FIG. 9 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method,according to certain example embodiments.

[0067] FIG. 10 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0068] FIG. 11 illustrates an example flow diagram of another method, according to certain example embodiments.

[0069] FIG. 12 illustrates a set of apparatuses, according to certain example embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0070] It will be readily understood that the components of certain example embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. The following is a detailed description of some example embodiments of systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for MBS session to outbound roaming UE.

[0071] The features, structures, or characteristics of example embodiments described throughout this specification may be combined in any suitable maimer in one or more example embodiments. For example, the usage of the phrases “certain embodiments,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” or other similar language, throughout this specification refers to the fact that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in certain embodiments,” “an example embodiment,” “in some embodiments,” “in other embodiments,” or other similar language, throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same group of embodiments, and the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more example embodiments. Further, the terms “base station”, “cell”, “node”, “gNB”, “network” or other similar language throughout this specification maybe used interchangeably.

[0072] 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 the elements.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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”).

[0075] 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 unstated and 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 unstated features, steps, or functionalities in addition to “A”.

[0076] Specifications of the 3rdGeneration Partnership Project (3GPP) define MBS. However, requirements for providing MBS services to roaming users have not yet been defined. There may be certain requirements to MBS services. For example, in the case of a roaming user, the roaming user should be able to activate services that are provided locally in the visited network, as allowed by the user’s home environment (e.g., local tourist information). Additionally, a user subscribed to a service class in a home public land mobile network (HPLMN) should be able to enjoy equivalent services in the sameservice class as provided by a visited PLMN (VPLMN) without explicit subscription in the VPLMN (e.g., weather forecast). Thus, as described herein, certain example embodiments may provide solutions for a roaming UE to receive MBS broadcast sessions from a HPLMN while roaming.

[0077] In certain example embodiments, an individual delivery procedure for MBS services may be provided also for broadcast services in HPLMN A. For instance, FIG. 1 illustrates an example signal flow diagram to establish individual delivery for data related to a broadcast session, according to certain example embodiments. In particular, FIG. 1 illustrates communications between network elements of HPLMN A 100 and VPLMN B 102. As illustrated in FIG. 1, at 124, the application function (AF) 122 informs the UE 104 via a service announcement that the UE 104 can use MBS join while roaming (e.g., at PLMN B to access MBS broadcast service via individual delivery, for example, via receiving data of the MBS broadcast service sent via unicast towards the UE using a PDU session associated with the UE. According to certain example embodiments, the service announcement may include a temporary mobile group identity (TMGI) identifying the MBS broadcast service along with the indication that individual delivery is acceptable. At 126, the AF 122 informs, when creating the MBS broadcast service request, the network exposure function (NEF) 120 that the service is for MBS individual delivery for roaming UEs, but not for MBS broadcast for non-roaming UEs. In some example embodiments, the AF 122 may also indicate to the NEF 120 PLMNs to which individual delivery is applicable, and the TMGI. Similarly, at 130, the NEF 120 informs, when creating the MBS broadcast service request, MB-SMF A 118 that the service is for MBS individual delivery for roaming UEs but not for MBS broadcast for nonroaming UEs. In certain example embodiments, the NEF 120 may also indicate to MB-SMF A 118 PLMNs to which individual delivery is applicable, and the TMGI.

[0078] At 128, the NEF 120 or, at 132, the MB-SMF A 118 may authorize the MBS broadcast service request for creating the MBS broadcast session with individual delivery towards other PLMNs (e.g., VPLMN B). In some example embodiments, the NEF 120 or MB-SMF A 118 may also provide additional PLMNs based on configured data of the AF 122 as to whether the AF 122 is entitled to request MBS individual delivery for roaming UEs. At 134, the UE 104 use the join request in VPLMN B 100 to receive MBs data. At 136, the UE 104 sends a join request for the MBS session as part. At 138, the NG- RAN forwards the join request within session management signaling related to a PDU session of the UE 104. At 140, the V-SMF 110 forwards to the SMF 114 the session management signaling related to the PDU session of the UE including the join request.

[0079] At 142, the SMF 114 contacts MB-SMF A 118 for subscribing to the MBS session context. In response, at 144, MB-SMF A 118 indicates to the SMF 114 that joining the MBS broadcast service is only acceptable for roaming UEs. In some example embodiments, MB-SMF A 118 may also indicate permissible VPLMNs for the MBS broadcast service for the roaming UE. At 146, the SMF 114 authorizes the MBS join request for roaming UEs based on the information received from MB-SMF A 118 at 144. According to certain example embodiments, if a non-roaming UE attempts to join the MBS broadcast service, the SMF 114 may reject the join request from the nonroaming UE with an error code indicating that the service is only accessible via MBS broadcast and roaming UEs that use MBS broadcast services to receive the MBS data. According to other example embodiments, if a previously roaming UE is transferred back to the HPLMN (e.g., HPLMN A 102), the SMF 114 may terminate individual delivery and signal to the UE that it is removed from the MBS session with an indication that the service is only accessible via MBS broadcast service, and an indication that roaming UEs that uses the MBS broadcast service to receive MBS data.

[0080] At 148, the SMF 114 transmits a response to the V-SMF 110 at VPLMN B 100 indicating a join accept of the MBS broadcast service (e.g., the UE 104 is authorized to join the MBS service). The indication may also include additional quality of service (QoS) flow for MBS data with a protocol data unit (PDU) session. At 150, the V-SMF 110 configures the V-UPF 108 to receive the additional QoS flow and to forward it towards the UE 104 within a PDU session of the UE. At 152, the V-SMF transmits a response to the AMF 106 at VPLMN B 100 indicating a join accept of the MBS broadcast service (e.g., UE 104 is authorized to join the MBS service). At 154, the AMF 106 configures the RAN to transmit the additional QoS flow towards the UE 104. At 156, the AMF 106 transmits a response to the UE 104 indicating a join accept of the MBS broadcast service (e.g., UE 104 is authorized to join the MBS service). At 158, the SMF 114 configures the UPF 112 to receive data related to MBS session from the MB-UPF 116. For unicast transport, the MB- UPF 116 allocates an IP address and port where to receive the MBS session data. At 160, if the MB-UPF 116 allocates an IP address and port where to receive the MBS session data in operation 158, the SMF114 provides that IP address and port towards the MB-SMF 118. At 162, the MB-SMF 118 configures the MB-UPF 116 to forward data related to MBS session towards the IP address and port received in operation 160. At 164, the SMF 114 configures the UPF 112 to forward data related to the MBS session in a PDU session related to the UE 104. At 166, the AF 122 sends data related to the MBS session towards the MB-UPF 116. At 168, the MB-UPF 116 sends data related to the MBS session towards the UPF 112. At 170, the UPF 112 sends data related to the MBS session towards the V-UPF 108. At 172, the V-UPF 108 sends data related to the MBS session towards the RAN, which transmits the data towards the UE 104.

[0081] According to certain example embodiments, the individual delivery for MBS broadcast service may be expanded to also cover individual delivery fornon-roaming UEs outside the service area for the MBS broadcast service. For instance, the non-roaming UE outside the service area for MBS broadcast service may be informed about the service area via a service announcement, and that the non-roaming UE may use MBS join when being outside the MBS broadcast service area to access MBS broadcast service via individua delivery.

[0082] According to other example embodiments, the AF 122 may inform the network when creating the MBS broadcast service that the service is for MBS individual delivery for UEs outside the service area, and for MBS broadcast transmission for UEs inside the service area. According to further example embodiments, the NEF 120 or MB-SMF A 118 may authorize the MBS broadcast service request for creating an MBS broadcast session with individua delivery outside the service area. In some example embodiments, the authorization may be based on configured data of the AF 122 on whether the AF 122 is entitled to request MBS individual delivery for UEs outside the service area.

[0083] In certain example embodiments, when the SMF 114 may contact MB- SMF A 118 for subscribing to the MBS session context, MB-SMF A 118 may indicate that MBS join is only acceptable for UEs outside the service area, and indicate that individual delivery applies. In some example embodiments, the SMF 114 may authorize the join request for UEs outside the service area based on the indication from MB-SMF A 118 that the MBS join is acceptable. In certain example embodiments, if a UE inside the service area attempts to join the MBS service, the SMF 114 may reject the join request of the UE inside the service area with an error code, which indicates that the service is only accessible via MBS broadcast, and that only the UE’s outside the service area that uses the MBS broadcast service may receive the MBS data.

[0084] According to certain example embodiments, if the join request from the UE outside the service area is accepted, the SMF 114 may subscribe to the AMF 106 using a Namf EventExposure service to notifications about the UEmoving in or out of a subscribed area of interest event. The SMF 114 may also supply the MBS service area as an area of interest. The area of interest indicates that notifications are requested when the UE enters or leaves the area. According to other example embodiments, if the SMF 114 becomes aware that a UE which was previously outside the service area is entering the service area based on an event notification, the SMF 114 may terminate individual delivery to the UE, and signal to the UE that it is removed from the MBS session. For instance, the UE may be signaled with an indication that the service is only accessible via MBS broadcast, and to UEs that use MBS broadcast to receive the MBS data.

[0085] FIG. 2 illustrates an example signal flow diagram of configuring additional PLMNs, according to certain example embodiments. In particular, FIG. 2 illustrates communications between network elements of HPLMN A 200 and VPLMN B 200. At 224, the AF 222 transmits a service announcement message to the UE 204. The service announcement message may include an indication of PLMNs in which MBS broadcast service is available (e.g., at VPLMN B 200 and at HPLMNA 202), and may include a TMGI of the MBS broadcast service. The AF 222 may also indicate PLMNs in which MBS broadcast service is available in the service announcement towards the UE 204. The AF 222 may also provide an MBS service area and frequency selection area IDs (FSAIs) for each additional PLMN. The MBS service area describes an area where MBS data are to be broadcasted. At 226, the roaming UE 204 uses the information received from the AF 222 to decide whether the MBS broadcast service is available in its serving PLMN, and for the frequency selection in the serving PLMN. At 228, the AF 222 transmits a request to the NEF-A 220 to create an MBS broadcast service session in HPLMN A 202, and indicates additional applicable PLMN(s) (e.g., VPLMN B 200, in a request to create an MBS broadcast session). According to certain example embodiments, for each PLMN, the AF 222 may provide a servicearea and may provide FSAIs of the MBS broadcast service. The AF 222 may also use a TMGI of PLMN A as MBS service ID, or request that a TMGI is allocated (in operation 228; parameters not shown). If TMGI is requested, MB-SMF A 216 may allocate a TMGI of PLMN A (e.g., may occur after operation 234).

[0086] At 230, the NEF A 220 authorizes the requested received from the AF 222 for additional PLMNs based on configured data of the AF 222 of whether the AF 222 is entitled to request an MBS broadcast session in those PLMNs. At 232 and 234, the NEF A 220 and MB-SMF A 218 may respectively perform operations similar to those of 228 at the AF 222, and 230 at the NEF A 220 described above. In certain example embodiments, MB-SMF A 218 may, for each additional applicable PLMN, discover an MB-SMF B 212 in that PLMN via a network repository function (NRF), and send a request to create the MBS broadcast service to that MB-SMF B 212. Alternatively, MB- SMF B 212 may send a request to NEF B 214 in VPLMN B (operation 250).

[0087] At 236, MB-SMF A 218 request MB-UPF A 216 to allocate an ingress IP address and port where to receive data related to the MBS session. At 60, the MB-SMF A 218 sends a reply to the NEF A 220 and forwards the ingress address. At 262, the NEF B 214 sends a reply to the AF and forwards the ingress address. At 264, the MB-SMF A 218 requests AMFs in PLMN A to configure RAN nodes within PLMN A to start the broadcast transmission of data of the MBS session. At 238, MB-SMF A 218 provides the TMGI it allocated or received from the AF 222 as an MBS service ID, and the service area for PLMN B as the MBs service area in a create request for the MBS broadcast session transmitted to NEF B 214. In certain example embodiments, MB-SMF A 218 may indicate in the create request that this is a request coming from other PLMN(s). In further example embodiments, MB-SMF A 218 may also indicate its own PLMN B. According to some example embodiments, NEF B 214 and MB-SMF B 212 may accept the TMGI allocated by PLMN Aas the MBS service ID based on identification that request is coming from other PLMN(s). At 246, the NEF B 214 in VPLMN B 200 authorizes the request based on configured data about PLMNs that are entitled to request the creation of an MBS broadcast session. At 242 the NEF B 214 sends the create request for the MBS broadcast session to the MB-SMF B 212. At 250, the MB-SMF B 212 in VPLMN B 200 authorizes the request based on configured data about PLMNs that are entitled to request the creation of an MBS broadcast session. At 252, MB-SMF B 212 request MB-UPF B 210 to allocate an ingress IP address and port where to receive data related to the MBS session. At 254, the MB-SMF B 212 sends a reply to the NEF B 214 and forwards the ingress address. At 256, the NEF B 214 sends a reply to the MB- SMF A 218 and forwards the ingress address. At 258, the MB-SMF A 218 requests MB-UPF A 216 to forward data of the MBS session towards the received ingress address. At 266, the MB-SMF B 212 sends a request to start the MBS session towards an AMF 208. In certain example embodiments, MB-SMF B 212 may indicate in the create request that this is a request coming from another PLMN. In further example embodiments, MB-SMF B 212 may also indicate the HPLMN A 202 from which the request is coming. At 268, according to some example embodiments, AMF 208 may accept the TMGI allocated by HPLMN A 202 as the MBS service ID based on identification that request is coming from other PLMN(s). At 270, the AMF 208 sends a request to start the MBS session towards an NG RAN node 206. In certain example embodiments, AMF 208 may indicate in the create request that this is a request coming from another PLMN. In further example embodiments, AMF 208 may also indicate the HPLMN A 202 from which the request is coming. At 272, according to some example embodiments, NG RAN node 206 may accept the TMGI allocated by HPLMN A 202 as the MBS service ID based on identification that request is coming from other PLMN(s). At 274, the AF 222 sends MBS session data towards MB-UPF A 216. At 276,the MB-UPF A 216 sends MBS session data towards MB-UPF B 210. At 278, the MB-UPF B 210 sends MBS session data towards NG RAN 206. At 280, NG RAN 206 transmits the NG RAN data via broadcast and the UE 204 receives them.

[0088] In certain example embodiments, NEF B 214 and / or MB-SMF B 214 may discover PLMN A via the mobile network code (MNC) and mobile competence center (MCC) that is part of the received TMGI. In some example embodiments, NEF B 214 or MB-SMF B 210 in PLMN B 200 may authorize requests based on configured data of whether PLMN A is entitled to request a creation of an MBs broadcast session in PLMN B. In other example embodiments, MB-SMF B 214 may configure a MB-UPF B 210 to provide a transport address and port where to receive MBS data, and provide the transport address and port in the reply to create a request towards MB-SMF A 218. In further example embodiments, MB-SMF A 218 may configure MB- UPF A 216 to send MBS data towards the transport address and port. If no FASIs were provided in the request, MB-SMF B 216 may select and provide frequency selection area IDs (FSAIs) applicable in PLMN B, and provide those FSIs in reply to the create request towards MB-SMF A 218. MB-SMF B 212 may then provide FSAIs for each PLMN in the reply to the create request towards the AF 222, indicating for each PLMN which FSIs are applicable.

[0089] For MBS broadcast session creation, MB-SMF B 212 may determine AMF(s) based on the MBS service area, and may send MBS session start request(s) towards the AMF(s). The AMFs may determine NG RAN nodes and forward the MBS session start request(s) to the NG RAN nodes 206. The NG RAN nodes 206 may accept the TMGI allocated by PLMN A 202 as an MBS service ID based on an indication that the request is coming from other PLMN(s).

[0090] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according tocertain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 3 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 3 may be performed by a NEF, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the method may include, at 300, receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The method may also include, at 305, determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The method may further include, at 310, determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the method may include, at 315, configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0092] According to certain example embodiments, the request to create a multicast broadcast service session includes information comprising at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area. According to some example embodiments, the determination of whether to enable individual delivery or the determination of the area may be based at least on one of information received in the request, or configured authorization information. According to other example embodiments, the configured authorization information comprises at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be authorized or enabled, an indication of an individual delivery area where individual delivery is to be authorized or enabled, or an identity of one or a plurality of application functions. According to further example embodiments, the determination ofwhether to enable individual delivery or the determination of the area may be based on at least one of the application function sending the request is matching the configured identity of an application function, or the information received in the request may include an individual delivery area which is contained in the configured individual delivery area.

[0093] In certain example embodiments, the individual delivery area is indicated by at least one of any public land mobile network different from the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, one or a plurality of public land mobile networks, any region which is different from the region where the apparatus is located and which is in the same public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, one or a plurality of regions, one or a plurality of tracking areas, one or a plurality of cell identifiers, or a geographic area. In some example embodiments, the configuring the network function to enable individual delivery of the mobile broadcast service session towards the user equipment within the determined area may include sending a request to create the multicast broadcast service session to the network function, wherein the request comprises at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In other example embodiments, the configuring the network function to enable individual delivery of the mobile broadcast service session towards the user equipment within the determined area may include sending a context subscribe response to the network function, wherein the context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area.

[0094] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according tocertain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 4 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 4 may be performed by a SMF, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the method may include, at 400, receiving a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. The method may also include, at 405, transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include, at 410, receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response wherein the context subscribe response comprises at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. In addition, the method may include, at 415, authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0096] According to certain example embodiments, the individual delivery area is indicated by at least one of one public land mobile network different from a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, one or a plurality of public land mobile networks, one region which is different to the region where the apparatus is located and which is in the same public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, one or a plurality of regions, one or a plurality of tracking areas, one or a plurality of cell identifiers, or a geographic area. According to some example embodiments, when user equipment attempts to join the multicast broadcast service session in the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area, the method may further include rejecting the join request from the user equipment, wherein the join request may be rejected with an error code indicating that themulticast broadcast service session is only accessible via a multicast broadcast service of broadcast session type.

[0097] In certain example embodiments, when the user equipment is moving outside the individual delivery area or inside the multicast broadcast service area, the method may also include at least one of the following: terminating individual delivery of data of the multicast broadcast session towards the user equipment, removing the user equipment from the multicast broadcast service session, or signaling towards the user equipment that it is being removed from the multicast broadcast service session and that the service is only accessible via broadcast. In some example embodiments, when the join request is accepted, the method may further include subscribing at an access management function using a Namf EventExposure service, and becoming aware that the user equipment is moving outside the individual delivery area or inside the multicast broadcast service area based on an event notification.

[0098] FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 5 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 5 may be performed by a UE, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0099] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the method may include, at 500, receiving, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type. The information about the multicast broadcast session may also include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. According to some example embodiments, themethod may also include, at 505, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. According to further example embodiments, the method may also include, at 510, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0100] According to certain example embodiments, the individual delivery area is indicated by at least one of any public land mobile network different from the public land mobile where the apparatus is located, one or a plurality of public land mobile networks, any region which is different to the region where the apparatus is located and which is in the same public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, one or a plurality of regions, one or a plurality of tracking areas, one or a plurality of cell identifiers, or a geographic area. According to some example embodiments, the method may also include at least one of receiving a rejection for attempting to join the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the rejection may include an error code indicating that the multicast broadcast service session is only accessible via a multicast broadcast service of broadcast session type, or receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by receiving, in response to the rejection comprising the error code, broadcast session transmission.

[0101] In some example embodiments, the method may further include receiving an indication that the apparatus it is being removed from the multicast broadcast service session and that the service is only accessible via broadcast session type. In other example embodiments, the method may also include receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by receiving, in response to the indication, broadcast session transmission.

[0102] FIG. 6 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 6 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 6 may be performed by an AF, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the method may include, at 600, sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement. According to certain example embodiments, the service announcement may include information about a multicast broadcast service session comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The method may also include, at 605, sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0101] FIG. 7 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 7 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 7 may be performed by a NEF in HPLMN or MB-SMF in HPLMN, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0102] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the method may include, at 700, receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where a network element (e.g., NEF in HPLMN or MB-SMF in HPLMN) is located and at least one additional public land mobile network. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include, at 705, authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The method may further include, at 710, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s).

[0103] In certain example embodiments, the means for requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the network element is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), or sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. According to other example embodiments, the request may include at least one of an indication of amulticast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. In certain example embodiments, the authorization may be based on comparing information received in the request and configured authorization information comprising at least one of an identity of one or a plurality of public land mobile networks in which the creation of a multicast broadcast service session is authorized, or an identity of one or a plurality of application functions.

[0104] FIG. 8 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 8 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 8 may be performed by a NEF in VPLMN or MB-SMF in VPLMN, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0105] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the method may include, at 800, receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element (e.g., NEF in VPLMN or MN-SMF in VPLMN) is located. The method may also include, at 805, authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The method may further include, at 810, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0106] According to certain example embodiments, the received request may include an identifier of the another public land mobile network. According to some example embodiments, the request to create or start the multicast broadcast service session may include an identifier of the another public landmobile network(s) as indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network.

[0107] FIG. 9 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG.9 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 9 may be performed by an AMF or NG RAN in VPLMN, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the method may include, at 900, receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where a network element (e.g., AMF or NG RAN in VPLMN) is located. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The method may also include, at 905, authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The method may further include, at 910, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0109] FIG. 10 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG.10 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 10 may be performed by an AF, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the method may include, at 1000, sending,towards a user equipment, a service announcement. The service announcement may include information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include, at 1005, sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile network. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile networks.[oni] FIG. 11 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 11 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3 GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 11 may be performed by a UE in VPLMN, similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the method may include, at 1100, receiving a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks. According to certain example embodiments, the service announcement may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each publicland mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The method may also include, at 1105, determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of a network element (e.g., UE in VPLMN) based on the service announcement. The method may further include, at 1110, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0113] FIG. 12 illustrates a set of apparatuses 10 and 20 according to certain example embodiments. In certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may be elements in a communications network or associated with such a network. For example, apparatuses 10 and 20 may be any one of a NEF of MB-SMF, SMF, UE, AF, NEF in HPLMN or MB-SMF in HPLMN, NEF in VPLMN or MB-SMF in VPLMN, AMF or NG RAN in VPLMN, UE in VPLMN, or other similar devices or computing devices.

[0114] In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may include one or more processors, one or more computer-readable storage medium (for example, memory, storage, or the like), one or more radio access components (for example, a modem, a transceiver, or the like), and / or a user interface. In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may be configured to operate using one or more radio access technologies, such as GSM, LTE, LTE- A, NR, 5G, 6G, WLAN, WiFi, NB-IoT, Bluetooth, NFC, MulteFire, and / or any other radio access technologies. It should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that apparatuses 10 and 20 may include components or features not shown in FIG. 12.

[0115] As illustrated in the example of FIG. 12, apparatuses 10 and 20 may include or be coupled to processors 12 and 22 for processing information andexecuting instructions or operations. Processors 12 and 22 may be any type of general or specific purpose processor. In fact, processors 12 and 22 may include one or more of general-purpose computers, special purpose computers, microprocessors, DSPs, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and processors based on a multi-core processor architecture, as examples. While a single processors 12 and 22 are shown in FIG. 12, multiple processors may be utilized according to other example embodiments. For example, it should be understood that, in certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may include two or more processors that may form a multiprocessor system (e.g., in this case processors 12 may represent a multiprocessor) that may support multiprocessing. According to certain example embodiments, the multiprocessor system may be tightly coupled or loosely coupled (e.g., to form a computer cluster).

[0116] Processors 12 and 22 may perform functions associated with the operation of apparatuses 10 and 20 including, as some examples, precoding of antenna gain / phase parameters, encoding and decoding of individual bits forming a communication message, formatting of information, and overall control of the apparatuses 10 and 20, including processes and examples illustrated in FIGs. 1-11.

[0117] Apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include or be coupled to a memories 14 and 24 (internal or external), which may be respectively coupled to processors 12 and 24 for storing information and instructions that may be executed by processors 12 and 24. Memories 14 and 24 may be one or more memories and of any type suitable to the local application environment, and may be implemented using any suitable volatile or nonvolatile data storage technology, such as a semiconductor-based memory device, a magnetic memory device and system, an optical memory device and system, fixed memory, and / or removable memory. For example, memories 14 and 24 canbe comprised of any combination of random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), static storage, such as a magnetic or optical disk, hard disk drive (HDD), or any other type of non-transitory machine or computer readable media. The instructions stored in memories 14 and 24 may include program instructions or computer program code that, when executed by processors 12 and 22, enable the apparatuses 10 and 20 to perform tasks as described herein.

[0118] In certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include or be coupled to (internal or external) a drive or port that is configured to accept and read an external computer readable storage medium, such as an optical disc, USB drive, flash drive, or any other storage medium. For example, the external computer readable storage medium may store a computer program or software for execution by processors 12 and 22 and / or apparatuses 10 and 20 to perform any of the methods and examples illustrated in FIGs. 1-11.

[0119] In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may also include or be coupled to one or more antennas 15 and 25 for receiving a downlink signal and for transmitting via an UL from apparatuses 10 and 20. Apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include transceivers 18 and 28 configured to transmit and receive information. The transceivers 18 and 28 may also include a radio interface (e.g., a modem) coupled to the antennas 15 and 25. The radio interface may correspond to a plurality of radio access technologies including one or more of GSM, LTE, LTE-A, 5G, NR, 6G, WLAN, NB-IoT, Bluetooth, BT-LE, NFC, RFID, UWB, and the like. The radio interface may include other components, such as filters, converters (for example, digital-to- analog converters and the like), symbol demappers, signal shaping components, an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) module, and the like, to process symbols, such as OFDMA symbols, carried by a downlink or an UL.

[0120] For instance, transceivers 18 and 28 may be configured to modulate information on to a carrier waveform for transmission by the antennas 15 and 25 and demodulate information received via the antenna 15 and 25 for further processing by other elements of apparatuses 10 and 20. In other example embodiments, transceivers 18 and 28 may be capable of transmitting and receiving signals or data directly. Additionally or alternatively, in some example embodiments, apparatus 10 may include an input and / or output device (I / O device). In certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include a user interface, such as a graphical user interface or touchscreen.

[0121] In certain example embodiments, memories 14 and 34 store software modules that provide functionality when executed by processors 12 and 22. The modules may include, for example, an operating system that provides operating system functionality for apparatuses 10 and 20. The memory may also store one or more functional modules, such as an application or program, to provide additional functionality for apparatuses 10 and 20. The components of apparatuses 10 and 20 may be implemented in hardware, or as any suitable combination of hardware and software. According to certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may optionally be configured to communicate each other (in any combination) via a wireless or wired communication links 70 according to any radio access technology, such as NR.

[0122] According to certain example embodiments, processors 12 and 22 and memories 14 and 24 may be included in or may form a part of processing circuitry or control circuitry. In addition, in some example embodiments, transceivers 18 and 28 may be included in or may form a part of transceiving circuitry.

[0123] For instance, in certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive arequest from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to determine whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. Apparatus 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to determine the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. Apparatus 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to configure a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0124] In other example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to transmit a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response wherein the context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an individual delivery area. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to authorize the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0125] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive, from an application function, a service announcement including information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery isenabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0126] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to send, towards a user equipment, a service announcement comprising information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to send, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session comprising an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individualdelivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0127] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to authorize the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to, based on the authorization, request the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). In certain example embodiments, the combined request may include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. Alternatively, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include sending a separate request towards eachof the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session. In certain example embodiments, the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0128] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to authorize the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to, based on the authorization, request the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0129] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to authorize the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also becontrolled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to, based on the authorization, request the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0130] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to send, towards a user equipment, a service announcement comprising information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in the that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks. According to certain example embodiments, the request comprises an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0131] In further example embodiments, apparatuses 10 or 20 may be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to receive a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public landmobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to determine whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of the apparatus based on the service announcement. Apparatuses 10 or 20 may also be controlled by memory 14 or 24 and processor 12 or 22 to, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0132] In some example embodiments, an apparatus (e.g., apparatus 10 and / or apparatus 20) may include means for performing a method, a process, or any of the variants discussed herein. Examples of the means may include one or more processors, memory, controllers, transmitters, receivers, and / or computer program code for causing the performance of the operations.

[0133] Certain example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example, means for receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type. The apparatus may also include means for determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area. The apparats may further include means for determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled. In addition, the apparatus may include means for configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

[0134] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example, means for receiving a join request of a user equipment to join amulticast broadcast service session. The apparatus may also include means for transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further include means for receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response wherein the context subscribe response may include at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area. The apparatus may further include means for authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

[0135] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for receiving, from an application function, a service announcement including information about multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also include means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by using, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may further include means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

[0136] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area. The apparatus may also include means for sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session including an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area, or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

[0137] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, the request may include for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for authorizing the requestfor creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s). The apparatus may further include means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, the means for requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may include sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s). According to certain example embodiments, the combined request may also include for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. According to other example embodiments, the means for requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session may alternatively include sending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session. In certain example embodiments, the request may include at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

[0138] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. The apparatus may also include means for authorizing the request for creating the multicastbroadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session. The apparatus may further include means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0139] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network. The apparatus may further include means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

[0140] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for sending,towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks. According to certain example embodiments, the request may include an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

[0141] Certain example embodiments may also be directed to an apparatus that includes means for performing any of the methods described herein including, for example means for receiving a service announcement including information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks including an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network. The apparatus may also include means for determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of the apparatus based on the service announcement. The apparatus may further include means for, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

[0142] Certain example embodiments described herein provide several technical improvements, enhancements, and / or advantages with respect to providing MBS broadcast sessions from HPLMN to outbound roaming UEs. For instance, in some example embodiments, it may be possible to enable roaming UEs to receive an MBS broadcast session(s) from HPLMN whileroaming. In other example embodiments, it may also be possible to enable an AF to create an MBS broadcast service and provide related data one time while the MBS broadcast service is distributed in several PLMNs (e.g., all PLMNs of an operator group).

[0143] A computer program product may include one or more computerexecutable components which, when the program is run, are configured to carry out some example embodiments. The one or more computer-executable components may be at least one software code or portions of it. Modifications and configurations required for implementing functionality of certain example embodiments may be performed as routine(s), which may be implemented as added or updated software routine(s). Software routine(s) may be downloaded into the apparatus.

[0144] As an example, software or a computer program code or portions of it may be in a source code form, object code form, or in some intermediate form, and it may be stored in some sort of carrier, distribution medium, or computer readable medium, which may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. Such carriers may include a record medium, computer memory, read-only memory, photoelectrical and / or electrical carrier signal, telecommunications signal, and software distribution package, for example. Depending on the processing power needed, the computer program may be executed in a single electronic digital computer or it may be distributed amongst a number of computers. The computer readable medium or computer readable storage medium may be a non-transitory medium.

[0145] In other example embodiments, the functionality may be performed by hardware or circuitry included in an apparatus (e.g., apparatus 10 or apparatus 20), for example through the use of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable gate array (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other combination of hardware and software. In yet another example embodiment, the functionality may be implemented as a signal, anon-tangible means that can be carried by an electromagnetic signal downloaded from the Internet or other network.

[0146] According to certain example embodiments, an apparatus, such as a node, device, or a corresponding component, may be configured as circuitry, a computer or a microprocessor, such as single-chip computer element, or as a chipset, including at least a memory for providing storage capacity used for arithmetic operation and an operation processor for executing the arithmetic operation.

[0147] One having ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that the disclosure as discussed above may be practiced with procedures in a different order, and / or with hardware elements in configurations which are different than those which are disclosed. Therefore, although the disclosure has been described based upon these example embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative constructions would be apparent, while remaining within the spirit and scope of example embodiments. Although the above embodiments refer to 5G NR and LTE technology, the above embodiments may also apply to any other present or future 3 GPP technology, such as LTE-advanced, and / or fourth generation (4G) technology.

[0148] Partial Glossary:

[0149] 3GPP 3rd Generation Partnership Project

[0150] 5G 5th Generation

[0151] 5GCN 5G Core Network

[0152] 5GS 5G System

[0153] AF Application Function

[0154] BS Base Station

[0155] DL Downlink

[0156] eNB Enhanced Node B

[0157] E-UTRAN Evolved UTRAN

[0158] FSAI Frequency Selection Area ID

[0159] gNB 5G or Next Generation NodeB

[0160] HPLMN Home PLMN

[0161] LTE Long Term Evolution

[0162] MBS Multicast / Broadcast Service

[0163] MB-SMF Multicast / Broadcast Session Management Function

[0164] MB-UPF Multicast / Broadcast User Plane Function

[0165] NEF Network Exposure Function

[0166] NR New Radio

[0167] PLMN Public Land Mobile Network

[0168] SMF Session Management Function

[0169] TMGI Temporary Mobile Group Identity

[0170] UE User Equipment

[0171] UL Uplink

[0172] UPF User Plane Function

[0173] VPLMN Visited PLMN

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request indicates a broadcast session as session type; means for determining whether to enable individual delivery for the multicast broadcast service session in an area; means for determining the area for which individual delivery is to be enabled; and means for configuring a network function to enable individual delivery of the multicast broadcast service session towards user equipment within the determined area.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the request to create a multicast broadcast service session includes information comprising at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the determination of whether to enable individual delivery or the determination of the area is based at least on one of information received in the request, or configured authorization information.

4. The apparatus according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the configuredauthorization information comprises at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is to be authorized or enabled; an indication of an individual delivery area where individual delivery is to be authorized or enabled; or an identity of one or a plurality of application functions.

5. The apparatus according to any of claims 1 or 4, wherein the determination of whether to enable individual delivery or the determination of the area is based on at least one of the following: the application function sending the request is matching the configured identity of an application function; or the information received in the request comprises an individual delivery area which is contained in the configured individual delivery area.

6. The apparatus according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the individual delivery area is indicated by at least one of the following: any public land mobile network different from the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located; one or a plurality of public land mobile networks; any region which is different from the region where the apparatus is located and which is in the same public land mobile network where the apparatus is located; one or a plurality of regions; one or a plurality of tracking areas; one or a plurality of cell identifiers; or a geographic area.

7. The apparatus according to any of claims 1-6, wherein the configuring the network function to enable individual delivery of the mobile broadcastservice session towards the user equipment within the determined area comprises at least one of the following: sending a request to create the multicast broadcast service session to the network function, wherein the request comprises at least one of: an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; or an indication of an individual delivery area; or sending a context subscribe response to the network function, wherein the context subscribe response comprises at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; or an indication of an individual delivery area.

8. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a join request of a user equipment to join a multicast broadcast service session; means for transmitting a context subscribe request for subscribing to the multicast broadcast service session; means for receiving, in response to the context subscribe request, a context subscribe response wherein the context subscribe response comprises at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; oran indication of an individual delivery area; and means for authorizing the join request based on the information received in the context subscribe response.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the individual delivery area is indicated by at least one of the following: one public land mobile network different from a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located; one or a plurality of public land mobile networks; one region which is different to the region where the apparatus is located and which is in the same public land mobile network where the apparatus is located; one or a plurality of regions; one or a plurality of tracking areas; one or a plurality of cell identifiers; or a geographic area.

10. The apparatus according to claims 8 or 9, wherein when user equipment attempts to join the multicast broadcast service session in the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area, the apparatus further comprises: means for rejecting the join request from the user equipment, wherein the join request is rejected with an error code indicating that the multicast broadcast service session is only accessible via a multicast broadcast service of broadcast session type.

11. The apparatus according to any of claims 8-10, wherein when the user equipment is moving outside the individual delivery area or inside the multicast broadcast service area, the apparatus further comprises at least oneof: means for terminating individual delivery of data of the multicast broadcast session towards the user equipment; means for removing the user equipment from the multicast broadcast service session; or means for signaling towards the user equipment that it is being removed from the multicast broadcast service session and that the service is only accessible via broadcast.

12. The apparatus according to any of claims 8-11, wherein when the join request is accepted, the apparatus further comprises: means for subscribing at an access management function using a Namf EventExposure service; and means for becoming aware that the user equipment is moving outside the individual delivery area or inside the multicast broadcast service area based on an event notification.

13. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving, from an application function, a service announcement comprising information about multicast broadcast service session comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area; and means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session byusing, in response to the service announcement, a join request and receiving data via unicast transmission when being located outside the multicast broadcast service area or inside the individual delivery area; and means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving, in response to the service announcement, broadcast session transmission when being located inside the multicast broadcast service area or outside the individual delivery area.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the individual delivery area is indicated by at least one of the following: any public land mobile network different from the public land mobile where the apparatus is located; one or a plurality of public land mobile networks; any region which is different to the region where the apparatus is located and which is in the same public land mobile network where the apparatus is located; one or a plurality of regions; one or a plurality of fracking areas; one or a plurality of cell identifiers; or a geographic area.

15. The apparatus according to any of claims 13 or 14, further comprising at least one of the following: means for receiving a rejection for attempting to join the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the rejection comprises an error code indicating that the multicast broadcast service session is only accessible via a multicast broadcast service of broadcast session type; or means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session byreceiving, in response to the rejection comprising the error code, broadcast session transmission.

16. The apparatus according to any of claims 13-15, further comprising: means for receiving an indication that the apparatus it is being removed from the multicast broadcast service session and that the service is only accessible via broadcast session type; and means for receiving data of the multicast broadcast service session by receiving, in response to the indication, broadcast session transmission.

17. An apparatus, comprising: means for sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement comprising information about a multicast broadcast service session comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individual delivery is enabled inside the individual delivery area; and means for sending, towards a network function, a request to create the multicast broadcast service session comprising an indication that the session is of the broadcast type and at least one of the following: an indication that individual delivery is to be enabled; an indication of a multicast broadcast service area, wherein individual delivery is to be enabled outside the multicast broadcast service area; or an indication of an individual delivery area, wherein individualdelivery is to be enabled inside the individual delivery area.

18. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a request from an application function to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in a public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the request comprises for each additional public land mobile network, at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network; means for authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session in the additional public land mobile network(s); and means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the means for requesting the creation of the multicast broadcast service session comprise one of sending a combined request for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located and the at least one additional public land mobile network(s), wherein the combined request comprises for each additional public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network, orsending a separate request towards each of the at least one additional public land mobile network(s) for the creation of the multicast broadcast service session, wherein the request comprises at least one of an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the authorization is based on comparing information received in the request and configured authorization information comprising at least one of the following: an identity of one or a plurality of public land mobile networks in which the creation of a multicast broadcast service session is authorized; or an identity of one or a plurality of application functions.

20. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a request from another public land mobile network to create a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located; means for authorizing the request for creating the multicast broadcast service session based on configured information about other public land mobile networks authorized to create multicast broadcast service session; and means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

21. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the received request comprises an identifier of the another public land mobile network.

22. The apparatus according to claims 20 or 21, wherein the request tocreate or start the multicast broadcast service session comprises an identifier of the another public land mobile network as indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network.

23. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a request to start a multicast broadcast service session of broadcast type in the public land mobile network where the apparatus is located, wherein the request comprises an identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including an identifier of another public land mobile network and an indication that the request originates from other public land mobile network; means for authorizing the request with the identifier of the multicast broadcast service session including the identifier of the other public land mobile networks based on the indication that the request originates from the other public land mobile network; and means for, based on the authorization, requesting the creation or start of the multicast broadcast service session.

24. An apparatus, comprising: means for sending, towards a user equipment, a service announcement comprising information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network; and means for sending, towards a network function in one of the several public land mobile networks, a request to create the multicast broadcastservice session in that public land mobile network and other of the plurality of public land mobile networks, wherein the request comprises an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each other public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the other public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the other public land mobile network, or one or several frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the other public land mobile network.

25. An apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a service announcement comprising information about a multicast broadcast service session available in a plurality of public land mobile networks comprising an indication that the session is of a broadcast type and for each public land mobile network at least one of an identifier of the additional public land mobile network, an indication of a multicast broadcast service area applicable within the additional public land mobile network, or one or a plurality of frequency selection area identifiers applicable within the additional public land mobile network; and means for determining whether the multicast broadcast service session is available in a serving public land mobile network of the apparatus based on the service announcement; and means for, based on the determination, receiving data of the multicast broadcast service by receiving broadcast transmission.

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