The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) World Radiocommunication Seminar 2010 (WRS-10) opened in Geneva on 6 December to discuss international regulations on the use of radio frequency spectrum and satellite orbits. Discussions during the week will also focus on some key technological issues, such as future standards for mobile phones.

In particular, WRS-10 will outline progress made in ITU-R Study Groups and aim to provide the latest information on topical issues related to radio standardization and spectrum management. A highlight of these activities has been the recent decision of the ITU regarding the platform for the next generations of mobile broadband telecommunications, known as IMT-Advanced.

Following a detailed evaluation against stringent technical and operational criteria, the ITU has determined that ‘LTE-Advanced’ and ‘WirelessMAN-Advanced’ should be accorded the official designation of IMT-Advanced. As the most advanced technologies currently defined for global wireless mobile broadband communications, IMT-Advanced is considered as ‘4G’, although it is recognized that this term, while undefined, may also be applied to the forerunners of these technologies, LTE and WiMAX, and to other evolved 3G technologies providing a substantial level of improvement in performance and capabilities with respect to the initial third generation systems now deployed. The detailed specifications of the IMT-Advanced technologies will be provided in a new ITU-R Recommendation expected in early 2012.

WRS-10 will also focus on developments in 3D TV, digital broadcasting, aeronautical and maritime services, and the coordination of satellite networks. Workshops will be conducted in parallel on space and terrestrial services.