Intermediary Apparatus for Mobile Network Credential Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of mobile computing devices face difficulties in acquiring network access credentials, especially when purchasing or activating devices or roaming to different network operators, as the process can be complex and requires technical knowledge.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that employs an intermediary apparatus to facilitate the provisioning of network access credentials by establishing a local connection with the mobile device and communicating with a provisioning apparatus, using a trusted device identity to obtain and provide network access credentials without requiring changes to core network entities or user technical expertise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a direct connection between mobile device and provisioning apparatus is established, then credential provisioning can be performed, but the process becomes complex and requires user technical knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary apparatus that acts as a mediator between the mobile device and the provisioning apparatus. This intermediary establishes a local connection with the mobile device and communicates with the provisioning apparatus on behalf of the user, thereby simplifying the credential provisioning process and eliminating the need for users to understand complex technical procedures.
2Ease of operation
If core network entities are modified to enable automated credential provisioning, then user-friendly provisioning is achieved, but network infrastructure changes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary apparatus serves as a bridge that enables automated credential provisioning without requiring modifications to core network entities. It handles the communication and coordination between the mobile device and the provisioning apparatus, thereby achieving user-friendly provisioning while maintaining compatibility with existing network infrastructure.
3Extent of automation
If an intermediary apparatus is introduced, then automated credential provisioning is enabled without network changes, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary apparatus enables the mobile device to provision credentials automatically without requiring user intervention or technical knowledge. The intermediary handles the entire credential provisioning process autonomously by establishing local connections and communicating with the provisioning apparatus, thereby achieving high automation while keeping the user experience simple.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatuses are provided for access credential provisioning. A method may include causing a trusted device identity for a mobile apparatus to be provided to an intermediary apparatus. The intermediary apparatus may serve as an intermediary between the mobile apparatus and a provisioning apparatus for a network. The method may further include receiving, from the intermediary apparatus, network access credential information for the network. The network access credential information may be provisioned to the mobile apparatus by the provisioning apparatus based at least in part on the trusted device identity. Corresponding apparatuses are also provided.