Key players sign-up to Wi-Fi group

The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) has launched its Interoperability Compliancy Program (ICP), an initiative that will streamline the way WBA members work together on a common set of technical and commercial frameworks for Wi-Fi roaming. Key global players in the Wi-Fi ecosystem such as AT&T, Boingo Wireless, BT, China Mobile, KT, NTT Docomo, PCCW, Shaw Communications, Smart Communications and True have confirmed their participation.

The programme outlines compliancy guidelines for operators with different support levels. These range from simple integration requirements for roaming partners, to delivering support for the latest in session security, to more complex charging models and billing mechanisms required for the implementation of next generation hotspots.

Shrikant Shenwai, chief executive officer of the WBA, said: “With public Wi-Fi emerging as a key component of operators’ offerings, it has never been more essential for the WBA to encourage interoperability and collaboration within the Wi-Fi community. Our new ICP provides a framework for operators to assess their own network capabilities and make it easier to create bilateral Wi-Fi roaming agreements. The programme’s guidelines help Wi-Fi providers plan for future network enhancements and introduce new products and services. The ICP helps players across the Wi-Fi ecosystem work together to deliver a more simplified roaming experience.”