The GSMA, the global trade association for the mobile industry, and the Femto Forum, the independent industry association that supports femtocell deployment worldwide, have announced that they will work together to define and develop solutions for the deployment of femtocells within mobile operator networks.

The GSMA will provide mobile operators' requirements and outline specifications for femtocells to the Femto Forum to ensure that this new technology develops in a way that maximises its potential to serve mobile users. Where appropriate, the two groups will also work together to address issues that may affect deployment of femtocells, such as operator security requirements or the regulatory environment.

"Femtocells promise to provide excellent mobile coverage for both voice and high-speed data services in homes, offices and campus environments," said Alex Sinclair, chief technology officer of the GSMA. "Through this agreement with the Femto Forum, we will seek to ensure that femtocells fit seamlessly into mobile operators' existing networks so that users can enjoy a compelling range of services regardless of whether they connect through a femtocell or a conventional base station."

Simon Saunders, chairman of the Femto Forum concurred. "Femtocells have the potential to significantly change the cost of delivering high-quality mobile broadband services, to the benefit of operators and customers alike," he said. "However, delivering on the simple femtocell proposition of lower cost and better quality mobile communications is only achievable if the entire industry can work together. The cooperation between the GSMA and the Femto Forum is a key step in making this happen."