India Broadband Forum

India Broadband Internet

Computer networks form a crucial component of the communication infrastructure. Many of the applications that are being introduced in computer networks are extremely useful, not just in commercial applications but also in personal communications. One such application is the Peer-to-Peer computer network, which has multipurpose utility. Besides allowing sharing of files with audio, video and any other data in digital format, it also accommodates real-time data such as telephony traffic.

The concept of Peer-to-Peer Video Sharing (PPVS) is not new. Now, for the first time, users can view each other during conversation over their mobile phones. The PPVS service being offered by Openera is part of the IMS suite of applications delivered by Lucent Technologies. This application allows IMS and 3G users to establish real-time audio and video communication. The company’s Active Phone Book (APB) feature permits users to integrate different databases on their mobiles, combining personal and official contacts from different applications into a single, centralized address book.

The APB acts as the starting point for all of Openera’s Peer-to-Peer mobile services that include instant messaging, cellular push-to-talk and direct voice mail, apart from PPVS. The APB also provides awareness and allows users to know how and when they can communicate with others. Mobile network operators can integrate real-time and peer-to-peer applications across a number of devices including PDAs and smart phones.

If new services like video sharing on IMS-enabled mobile devices are offered, the carrier will have greater opportunity to attract new customers and reduce the number of existing customers from switching over to competitors. Services like PPVS turn mobile handsets into robust multimedia platforms that allow the users to enjoy the novel experience of personalised communication with improved interaction. Videophone calls are expected to become increasingly common with mobile phone buyers making camera phones their first choice.