Wireless operators are experiencing a rapid decline in their
average revenue per user (ARPU). Strong competition has generated
a need for differentiation in operator service offerings.
The advent of the Internet has created a tremendous new
and exciting business opportunity for wireless operators.
Operators are rushing to upgrade their networks with new
packet-based technologies that will allow them to offer innovative
wireless data services to their subscribers. This has triggered
an immense demand for highly scalable, low-cost, easily
maintainable, packet-based, unified, voice and data wireless
core switching products.
Wireless subscribers are far more sophisticated users today
than they were five years ago. They are no longer satisfied with
just placing a call; they require innovative ways to use the wireless
phone. New applications for enhanced services are very
important to wireless customers. Features such as Caller ID
and voice messaging are considered standard. New services
and features will become important differentiators in a competitive
service-provider market.
To provide these new services and features for the wireless
Internet, present-day equipment must give way to new technology.
New application protocols must be implemented to
work with packet networks.