devices, such as utility meters, are stationary. Furthermore, even if the device is moving, maintaining the
same IP address is not required for proper functioning of many applications.
An example is HTTP Adaptive Streaming (HAS). This application works by downloading twp seconds
worth of chunks that are buffered in the client with a deep buffer of tens of seconds. If downloading of a
chunk is interrupted by a handoff, a new TCP connection with a new IP address can be set up to
download the same chunk again. Another example is tracking devices on pets/people where the device is
periodically updating the network about the wearer’s location. If an active session is interrupted a new
session can be set up to perform the location update.
The functions that handle device mobility in 4G are oblivious to the specific requirements of the
applications and devices. The same seamless mobility is always provided, incurring additional signaling,
processing, memory and bandwidth overheads. More specifically, inefficiencies in 4G include the
following: