MULTIMEDIA applications and streaming are already being delivered over the Wire line and Wireless networks. Video conferencing has been in vogue for quite some time now. But the question is how are they delivered? What are Capex and Opex implications for the network operator? How simple are the networks and their management for provisioning these services. Are there technological ways that could bring operational efficiencies to the operators that would provide consistency in the growth of the bottom-line and top-line in a fiercely competitive market environment? Fast emerging IP Multimedia Subsystem popularly known as IMS is all set to fulfill
the above promises if present day developments are any indications.

IP Multimedia subsystem is an IP multimedia and telephony core network for the Next Generation Network architecture that promises to promote the Fixed Mobile Convergence by combining the capabilities of the Internet with both Fixed and Wireless networks. Evolution of IMS started as a specification for 3G Mobile packet telephony which latter was adopted as the basis of packet telephony over any packet-based infrastructure including fixed and mobile networks. It is defined by 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards and its latter versions and organizations based on IETF Internet protocols.

IMS is aimed at provisioning all the services, current and future, that the Internet provides. It establishes a bridge between the Internet-based services and traditional operator services (whether fixed or mobile). It is imminent that IMS will usher in the era of seamless multimedia communications across wireline and wireless networks. IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) is a promising technology that could play a major role in the delivery of multimedia services over fixed and mobile networks through diverse media including traditional access methods as well as third generation wireless devices.

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Paper No 36-C; Copyright © 2006 by the IETE..

All of the major telecoms standards organizations, including 3GPP, IETF, ETSI, ITU, TISPAN, TIA and the MSF, are now adopting IMS as the basis of their next-generation packet telephony architectures. The first multi-vendor interoperability testing of IMS is slated to take place latter in Q4 2006 under the auspices of the MSF (Multi Service Forum).

2. VALUE PROPOSITION OF HUAWEI’S IMS SOLUTION

IMS promises to bring a bouquet of features for the carriers that will transform the communication process.

1. It describes the way for network service providers to architect interoperable infrastructure in their networks to deliver the multimedia applications and services. The interfaces and protocols required to deliver these IP multimedia applications and services are standardized, making it much easier for operators to develop and integrate new multimedia services.
   
   
2. It allows multiple voice and data services to be carried on a single layer enabling the subscribers to establish real time and non real time service with multiple users and devices in a single session.
   
   
3. It improves service integration for subscribers as they can manage multiple concurrent sessions of ultimedia service offering.
   
   
4. It provides enhanced location/presence based service that helps the users to customize and improve communication.
   
   
5. It permits leveraging of common infrastructure across multiple applications for greater capital efficiency and lower operating costs.
   
   
6. It allows leveraging the vast wealth of services developed for the Internet to be utilized over mobile communications.