Industry leaders get together to refine Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) with joint interoperability tests.
Ericsson, Motorola, and Siemens announced today the first joint interoperability tests for Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) technology. The tests are designed to help provide network operators with easy integration, interoperability and a competitive environment in which to deploy commercial PoC service. For consumers, the testing helps ensure a simple, seamless Push-to-Talk experience.
The PoC function enables mobile phones to be used like walkie-talkies, providing communication at the touch of a button. Instead of dialing a number to start a conversation, with one push of a button users simply go to a "buddy list" and select the person they want to contact. Push the button again, talk, and the user's voice is heard by the recipient.
One can also create group calls so everyone on the buddy list can hear the message simultaneously - just as in a telephone conference. Instead of having to SMS or call each recipient individually, a push of the key is all it takes to send a message directly to an entire circle of friends or work colleagues, for example. Already popular in North America, PoC is poised for growth in Europe and in Asia - but interoperability is a key factor to such broad-based acceptance.
The first technical standard specification for Push-to-Talk - PoC Phase One - was submitted to the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) in August 2003. Ericsson, Motorola, Siemens and Sony Ericsson are promoting a final version of the PoC standard through the OMA.
Today, the industry leaders take the next step by successfully starting joint interoperability tests to help speed delivery of compatible PoC solutions to network operators. The first interoperable products and solutions are expected to be introduced in Q2 2004. Other manufacturers are encouraged to join the interoperability tests to help ensure compatibility between devices and PoC servers across vendors.
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