Nokia tests Unlicensed Mobile Access phone technology

Nokia launched yesterday its very first public test of Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA), an innovative mobile communications technology that facilitates seamless handover between WiFi and cell networks. Nokia’s dual-mode UMA phones automatically use VoIP when WiFi connectivity is available, and use GSM as a fallback when compatible WiFi networks are inaccessible. The device is capable of switching between networks during roaming as accessibility changes.

Fifty families are participating in Nokia’s UMA pilot program, which is being rolled out in the city of Oulu, Finland. The city, which is equipped with numerous publicly funded WiFi hotspots, is an ideal location for the experiment. Pilot program participants will use Nokia 6136 phones, which are equipped with dual-mode UMA components and are said to provide “smooth and seamless transitions” between quad-band GSM and 802.11b/g wireless. Support for seamless handover is what distinguishes Nokia’s UMA technology from existing dual-mode solutions, like the BT Fusion service.

Full article: Ars Technica