ESPOO, Finland-Nokia Corp. said it had begun real-world testing of Unlicensed Mobile Access software on its 6136 device in the Finnish city of Oulu, prior to moving the technology to mainstream markets.
The Nokia 6136 integrates UMA technology to allow seamless handoffs of voice and data connections between GSM cellular and WLAN networks, which allow Voice over Internet Protocol services. UMA technology may allow network operators to expand their coverage by establishing WLAN hot spots instead of more expensive cellular base stations.
The pilot project enables 50 families to receive free WLAN Internet access via hot spots in downtown Oulu. Nokia said the trial will last at least two months and under “real-life” surroundings and conditions. The company first introduced the UMA handset in February at the 3GSM World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.
