The introduction of new technologies, including 3G/IMS, broadband access, and disruptors such as WiFi or WiMax, are beginning to shape the next generation communications and entertainment system in a way that rivals the changes brought by the introduction of the Internet at the beginning of the 1990 s. 3G/IMS is a logical evolution towards powerful core capabilities and enablers expected to be needed to support complicated business models and allow mobile operators to maintain control of advanced and valued-added applications. The IMS is also seriously considered by many wireline operators since the same types of capabilities and enablers are envisioned to be desired. At the same time, the advent and success of WiFi technology has prompted both cellular and wireline operators to factor its implications in their strategy. Although successful as a wireless extension of a LAN suitable for residential or enterprise deployment, it is marginally profitable when deployed in a hotspot (hotel or coffeeshop) environment. However, the maturity of the WiFi technology provides a number of options available to both cellular and wireline providers in such a way that it has to be considered as a basic building block in the technology and business value chain.

While the telecommunications industry is getting ready to embrace the new technology, it is important to understand the characteristics of a new breed of services and service enablers. Examples of these new services include any combination of VoIP, video telephony, instant messages, multimedia messaging service, push-to-X (where X can be talk, image, or video),...