The correct protocol will define a universal set of rules which provide an efficient, high-reliability, end-to-end data path for Mobile Messaging.
Existing Internet e-mail protocols are not adequate for Mobile Messaging. They are not bandwidth efficient, nor do they properly support the "push" model for delivery of time-critical messages. In the ``push'' model, the message is delivered directly and immediately to the recipient, like a pager message. In the case of existing Internet e-mail protocols, messages must wait on a server until they are picked up or ``pulled'' by an explicit action on the part of the recipient.
At Layer 3, it is clear that all data networks, both wired and wireless, are now converging on Internet Protocol (IP). The importance of Internet access ensures that this convergence will continue. Therefore a basic requirement of the protocol is that it define message transmission over wireless IP.
In addition, the protocols must adequately address the particular requirements of Mobile Messaging; specifically, the need for bandwidth efficiency and battery efficiency of mobile platforms.
In order to be effective as an industry catalyst, the protocols must be open. This means several things. First and foremost, this means that they must be patent-free, so that there are no restrictions associated with use and implementation of the protocols. This also means that they must be published as Internet RFCs. RFC publication ensures unrestricted and permanent availability of the protocols. The protocols must also be maintained by public working groups, to ensure that the protocols are open to commentary and influence by any industry constituency that may be affected by them.
Based on all these requirements, it is clear that the needed set of protocols is missing. We claim that the LEAP protocols, described in detail elsewhere in The LEAP Manifesto, are the answer to this need.
The effect that the LEAP protocols will have on the Mobile Messaging industry is illustrated in Figure 4. As this figure shows, LEAP will provide complete openness of interoperability among Mobile Messaging devices, message centers, and wireless networks. This is in sharp contrast to the closed, non-interoperating model of Figure 3.
LEAP will thus have the effect of unifying the entire Mobile Messaging industry under a set of open Internet Protocol ("IP") standards and protocols so that, in the manner of the World Wide Web, all of the Mobile Messaging networks will effectively operate as one.
