Mobile peer-to-peer applications in cellular networks

Abstract: Since the introduction of Napster in 1999, Peer-to-peer applications has
generated controversy through providing users with tools for sharing files,
which has resulted in a large increase of traffic in fixed networks while
raising piracy issues. In recent years, other application areas for legal
commercial services based on peer-to-peer technology have started to appear.
Advancements in capabilities for mobile phones, combined with significant
improvements in mobile networks introduced the opportunity to provide mobile
peer-to-peer services.

This thesis explores possible application areas for peer-to-peer in cellular
networks and for mobile phones. Through brainstorming and studying existing
peer-to-peer applications in fixed and mobile networks, potential application
areas are identified. By combining analysis of identified applications
combined with interviews of service providers and operators, the study
provides an insight to the possible benefits and drawbacks of peer-to-peer in
cellular networks.

Data pricing, battery limitations and difficulties of adapting services to
the multitude of different available mobile phones are identified as major
obstacles for mobile peer-to-peer service deployment. While these challenges
are not unique to peer-to-peer architectures, the effects of pricing and
battery consumption have an even larger impact on applications built upon
peer-to-peer, as they are relying on contribution of resources from its
users.
Current characteristics of mobile industry, mobile phones and cellular
networks do not provide an ideal entry point for peer-to-peer architectures.
However, the future is uncertain. If mobile data pricing approaches flat-rate
and services are light on mobile terminals, peer-to-peer could offer service
providers a way to deploy services quickly with minimal investments in
infrastructure.
A first step towards mobile peer-to-peer could be to take advantage of
peer-to-peer architectures in fixed networks to provide mobile services.