The Operators Harmonization Group maintains its informal status as members continue to discuss the possibility of becoming an official group.
OHG, which began work more than a year ago as a loosely tied group of four operators trying to end the world’s heated battle over third-generation technology standards, now numbers about 40 operators from around the world.
In recent months, carriers like Vodafone AirTouch plc and BellSouth Cellular Corp., wanted to see the group become more formal and represent 3G operators as they work to deploy 3G systems. The idea was presented at a recent OHG meeting in December. Some European and North American operators were opposed to the idea.
Discussions remain, and the OHG continues to work on 3G standards issues with the International Telecommunication Union. Those opposed to making OHG a formal body fear that such a group could step on the toes of the existing carrier organizations, like the CDMA Development Group, that already are involved in 3G technology. Others fear operators may try to push their own technology agendas.
Carriers like Vodafone AirTouch hope a formalized OHG can help all 3G operators deploy their systems, no matter what technology carriers have chosen. Standards for authentication schemes, subscriber identity module cards, roaming and dual-mode handsets have not been set. Advocates would like to see the OHG play a role in determining these standards as well.
