Apple Inc.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ESSENTIAL SLICE SERVICE PROCESSING AND RECOVERY OF SERVICE

Abstract:

Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for requesting and providing service of a network slice deemed essential by a user equipment (UE). The UE transmits a request message to the network indicating that essential services are requested, and identifying the essential network slice. Based on the information in the request message, the serving network communicates with one or more network nodes to determine whether the requested services can be provided. This information is packaged in a response message and transmitted to the UE. If the current network is capable of servicing the requested network slice, then the UE remains with the current network. If not, then the UE initiates a search for an alternative network (PLMN or SNPN) capable of supporting the requested services. A successful search causes the UE to register with the newly-found network, whereas an unsuccessful search causes the UE to re-register with the current network.