LTE/SAE (Long Term Evolution/System Architecture Evolution) is the next generation of mobile communications being developed through the 3GPP. It will provide faster broadband data transmission that will enhance user experience and allow for more sophisticated mobile services. SAE is the enhancement of Packet Switched technology to cope with faster data rates and rapid growth in IP traffic.

Sisvel is leading an effort to facilitate the creation of an LTE/SAE patent pool, and this facilitation process now includes more than 30 industry leaders. The group, which just concluded the fourth general meeting in Rome on September 14th, 15th and 16th, joins LTE/SAE patent owners from the entire spectrum of relevant industries, including telecommunications companies (both network operators and equipment vendors), consumer electronics and integrated circuit manufacturers, and research institutes from China, Japan, Korea, Europe, and North America. Based on declarations of essentiality to standardization bodies, such as ETSI and TTA, these companies hold a substantial portion of the intellectual property relevant for the emerging LTE/SAE standard, representing a critical mass in both breadth and substance.

In the presence of a complex and diverse patent landscape with many companies holding essential LTE/SAE patents, an LTE patent pool will be key to simplify the licensing process, and should guarantee a joint licensing platform that reflects such complex landscape and help create a level playing field for all stakeholders. Sisvel’s fifth LTE/SAE facilitation meeting will be held on November 16th, 17th and 18th in Shanghai. Participating LTE/SAE stakeholders will move forward together in shaping the direction of LTE licensing.