Fixed-Mobile Convergence research from Sound Partners

Fixed-Mobile Convergence (FMC) has been the subject of substantial hype and confusion in the telecoms industry for many years, yet it has had relatively impact to date. We examine the reality of FMC today and assess its true potential. We cover:

  • device convergence (e.g. UMA services using dual-mode handsets)
  • network convergence (i.e. evolution towards all-IP core networks)
  • marketing convergence (e.g. innovative service bundling and pricing).

Featured article related to Fixed-Mobile Convergence
Read our featured article: Dual-mode services have fundamental weaknesses

The telecoms industry’s approach to fixed–mobile convergence (FMC) has been to focus on device convergence – particularly dual-mode voice handsets based on unlicensed mobile access technology (UMA). However, operators have had relatively little success with these services so far, for a number of reasons that are to do with fundamental aspects of converged devices for voice services.   More...

Full list of articles related to Fixed-Mobile Convergence

Dual-mode services have fundamental weaknesses
The telecoms industry’s approach to fixed–mobile convergence (FMC) has been to focus on device convergence – particularly dual-mode voice handsets based on unlicensed mobile access technology (UMA). However, operators have had relatively little success with these services so far, for a number of reasons that are to do with fundamental aspects of converged devices for voice services. Hence, even with improvements, UMA dual-mode voice services may continue to be a small opportunity for network operators and equipment vendors. More...

Are the days numbered for mobile-only operators?
Vodafone has bought Tele2’s fixed network assets in Italy and Spain for EUR775 million. The purchase demonstrates the increasing importance of fixed broadband services in the mobile operator service portfolio. Some mobile operators have considered offering a complete set of fixed and mobile services using wireless technologies (such as HSDPA and WiMAX), but we believe that operators will need both fixed and mobile networks in order to deliver a comprehensive range of services to end users. More...

IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) could accelerate fixed-mobile substitution
IMS is an open, standardised network development that increases the flexibility and control of multimedia services delivered over mobile and fixed IP networks. The strongest opportunity for IMS may be in support of the fixed–mobile substitution strategies of 3G operators, to help them to seize significant voice traffic and revenue from fixed operators. More...