Advantages of GSM and WCDMA integrated network services

It is quite important for subscribers to have a positive experience during the migration to 3G. With a well thought-through seamless network strategy, it is possible to offer generic services on both GSM and WCDMA. In other words, a service that is initially launched on GSM can easily be made available on WCDMA. Subscribers who are accustomed to certain types of service will maintain the same service, such as e-mail account or information service.

On the other hand, GSM operators that deploy WCDMA and evolve to a seamless network have the opportunity to segment their markets and to differentiate services based on the type of service. Because WCDMA handsets will be multi-mode GSM/GPRS/EDGE/WCDMA terminals capable of handling GSM and WCDMA voice and data, users will be able to access services from both networks. The multimode handsets will provide users with seamless services.

There are several good examples of successful segmentation practices when launching new advanced mobile data services. One such example is Turkcell, an operator that currently offers a broad range of mixed voice services, short messaging service (SMS) and GPRS services without focusing on the technology behind them.

Another major strength of this Seamless Network is that it enables flexibility in 3G deployments. The seamless network ensures that services introduced on GSM or WCDMA will work seamlessly on both GSM and WCDMA. The services are only limited by the bandwidth offered at that time. This benefit enables operators to provide mobile services beyond voice using WCDMA in areas where it is commercially beneficial and, at the same time, provide the same types of services nationwide using EDGE on the GSM network.