MMS (PDF)

MMS has evolved from the huge popularity of the SMS text service
for GSM networks. It is a departure from the transport mechanism
used for SMS (which is based on the GSM signalling channels) to the
use of IP to transport messages within the MMS network. To this end
MMS has similarities with Internet email and standard IETF
protocols. As with any new technology it is difficult to accurately
predict the position within the next 5 years, although based on
previous experience with WAP and SMS it would be fair to say that
these protocols will increase in usage over the next 5 years and
become legacy for a further 5 years following which, users will
migrate onto the next wave of messaging. Significant revenue growth
and data usage is expected to be driven by consumer usage of MMS.

But MMS technology offers more than just a broadening of message
content. With MMS, it is not only possible to send your multimedia
messages from one phone to another, but also from phone to email,
and vice versa. This feature dramatically increases the
possibilities of mobile communication, both for private and
corporate use.

Multimedia messaging will reshape the landscape of mobile
communication, making it more personal, more versatile, and more
expressive than ever before.

MMS:

* Is the first book to address how MMS (and the use of IP to
transport messages) will affect existing infrastructure and
business models

* Covers the fundamental changes to mail and billing systems

* Includes future recommendations, such as interoperability and
evolution

* Presents an overview of the MMS technology components

Drawing on the authors hands-on experience in the implementation
of MMS technology (developing, billing and delivering services) at
BT, this innovative book will appeal to engineering managers,
network operators, market analysts, business decision makers,
content providers and operator organizations.