Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for packet data service discovery are described. A current blacklist comprising entries for wireless networks not providing packet data services (i.e. either not supporting the services or not having a packet data services roaming agreement) is kept in memory of the mobile device based on previous attempts to connect to such networks. Current preferred roaming lists identify whether a given wireless network can be acquired, but do not identify whether a data services roaming agreement exists. At least one of the following advantages is provided: no advance knowledge of data services roaming agreements is required; no mobile device software change is required when the data services roaming agreement changes; mobile device can notify a server of a wireless network status change; significant power savings at the mobile device; and avoid unnecessary network access, which in turn saves network resources and capacity.

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First Claim