Dynamic Roaming Steering via External Preferred Roaming List Updates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile devices lack the ability for users or network operators to control the preferred roaming list (PRL), limiting the flexibility for subscribers to select alternative networks as preferred roaming carriers, which hampers revenue growth for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and subscriber choice.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that allows a mobile device to dynamically receive and update its preferred roaming list from sources other than the home network operator, enabling the selection of alternative network carriers based on received information, such as from RFID tags or barcodes, and communicating with a roaming network selection controller to set or connect to a new preferred roaming carrier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the PRL is controlled solely by the home network operator, then network security and control are maintained, but subscriber choice and MVNO revenue growth are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The PRL control function is segmented between the home network operator (maintaining security and baseline control) and external sources (providing subscriber-specific roaming options). The mobile device stores and processes multiple PRL versions, allowing selective application without compromising the home operator's authority over core network security parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary mechanism is introduced where the mobile device itself becomes the decision-making entity. The device receives PRL updates from external sources (such as MVNOs or roaming partners), processes them locally, and autonomously selects appropriate roaming networks based on user preferences or automated criteria, thereby enabling subscriber choice without direct home operator involvement in each decision.
2Ease of operation
If the PRL is updated via OTA without subscriber knowledge, then network operator control is maintained, but subscriber trust and transparency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the mobile device notifies the subscriber about received PRL updates from external sources. The subscriber can review the update content, understand what changes are being made to their roaming preferences, and provide explicit approval or rejection. This feedback loop maintains subscriber awareness and trust while preserving the convenience of automated updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device empowers the subscriber with self-service capabilities to manually review, approve, or reject PRL updates before they are applied. The device stores multiple PRL versions and allows the subscriber to select which version to use, transforming the passive recipient of OTA updates into an active participant in the PRL management process.
3Productivity
If MVNOs cannot control PRL content, then home network operator authority is preserved, but MVNO revenue opportunities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
Different levels of control authority are assigned to different entities based on their specific needs and responsibilities. The home network operator maintains control over core network security parameters and mandatory roaming agreements, while MVNOs are granted local quality control over specific roaming preference parameters that directly impact their revenue generation. This differentiated control approach allows MVNOs to optimize their commercial interests without compromising overall network security.
Solution Approach 2:
The PRL control mechanism transitions from a static, home-operator-only model to a dynamic multi-source system. The mobile device can receive and process PRL updates from multiple sources including home operators, MVNOs, and roaming partners at different times. The system dynamically selects and applies appropriate PRL versions based on current roaming conditions, subscriber preferences, and commercial agreements, enabling MVNOs to influence roaming decisions in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer readable media for providing dynamic steering of roaming in a telecommunications network are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method for providing dynamic steering of roaming in a telecommunications network includes a method for providing dynamic steering of roaming in a telecommunications network. The method includes, at a mobile telecommunications device, the device being associated with a subscriber of a first network carrier, receiving, from a source other than an operator of the first network carrier, information identifying a second network carrier that is different from the first network carrier. Based on the received information, the device either makes a change to a preferred roaming network carrier for the device by setting the second network carrier as a preferred roaming network carrier for the device, or connects to the second network carrier, where the second network carrier is not a preferred roaming network carrier for the device, and without changing the preferred roaming network carrier for the device.