WO2025223751A1

WO2025223751A1 - Selection of a shared radio access network in a multi-operator core network deployment

Info

Publication number: WO2025223751A1
Application number: PCT/EP2025/057508
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pallab Gupta; Srinivas GARIKIPATI
Original assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
Current assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
Priority date: 2024-04-24
Filing date: 2025-03-19
Publication date: 2025-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-24
Also published as: GB2640549A; GB202405739D0

Abstract

A method performed by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network is provided. The method includes determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs). Each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs is associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed. The method includes receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs. And the method includes selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

Description

SELECTION OF A SHARED RADIO ACCESS NETWORK IN A MULTI-OPERATOR

CORE NETWORK DEPLOYMENT

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to telecommunications and, in particular, to selection of a shared radio access network (RAN) in a multi-operator core network (MOCN) deployment with multiple shared RANs in coverage of a UE.

BACKGROUND

[0002] A telecommunications system can be seen as a facility that enables communication sessions between two or more entities such as user terminals, base stations and/or other nodes by providing carriers between the various entities involved in the communications path. A telecommunications system can be provided for example by means of a communication network and one or more compatible communication devices. The communication sessions may comprise, for example, communication of data for carrying communications such as voice, video, electronic mail (email), text message, multimedia and/or content data and so on. Nonlimiting examples of services provided comprise two-way or multi-way calls, data communication or multimedia services and access to a data network system, such as the Internet. [0003] In a wireless telecommunications system at least a part of a communication session between at least two stations occurs over a wireless link. Examples of wireless telecommunications systems comprise public land mobile networks (PLMN), satellite based communication systems and different wireless local networks, for example wireless local area networks (WLAN). Some wireless systems can be divided into cells, and are therefore often referred to as cellular systems.

[0004] A user can access the telecommunications system by means of an appropriate communication device or terminal. A communication device of a user may be referred to as user equipment (UE) or user device. A communication device is provided with an appropriate signal receiving and transmitting apparatus for enabling communications, for example enabling access to a communication network or communications directly with other users. The communication device may access a carrier provided by a station, for example a base station of a cell, and transmit and/or receive communications on the carrier. [0005] The telecommunications system and associated devices typically operate in accordance with a given standard or specification which sets out what the various entities associated with the system are permitted to do and how operations should be achieved. Communication protocols and/or parameters which shall be used for the connection are also typically defined. One example of a telecommunications system is the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). Other examples of telecommunications systems are Long-Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Advanced and the so-called 5G or New Radio (NR) networks. NR is being standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] With the development of telecommunications, it has been proposed to support network sharing among different operators. A network sharing architecture allows multiple operators to share resources of a shared network according to agreed allocation schemes. The shared network includes a radio access network (RAN). The shared resources include radio resources. Network sharing is a way for the operators to share the heavy deployment costs for transport networks. In addition to a shared RAN, the operators may or may not have additional dedicated RANs. There are a number of identified architectures supported by network sharing, including multi-operator core network (MOCN) in which only the RAN is shared. Example implementations of the present disclosure are directed to selection of a shared RAN in a MOCN deployment with multiple shared RANs in coverage of a user equipment.

[0007] The present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following example implementations.

[0008] Some example implementations provide an apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, the apparatus comprising: at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processing circuitry configured to access the at least one memory, and execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to at least: determine that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0009] Some example implementations provide an apparatus comprising: means for determining, by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and means for selecting, by the UE, a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0010] Some example implementations provide a method comprising: determining, by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and selecting, by the UE, a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0011] Some example implementations provide a computer-readable storage medium implemented at a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, the computer- readable storage medium being non-transitory and having instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to at least: determine that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0012] Some example implementations provide an apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the apparatus comprising: at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processing circuitry configured to access the at least one memory, and execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0013] Some example implementations provide an apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the apparatus comprising: means for determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and means for selecting a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0014] Some example implementations provide a method performed by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the method comprising: determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and selecting a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0015] Some example implementations provide a computer-readable storage medium implemented by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the computer-readable storage medium being non-transitory and having instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0016] Some example implementations provide an apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processing circuitry configured to access the at least one memory, and execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receive system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and select one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0017] Some example implementations provide an apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: means for determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; means for receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and means for selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0018] Some example implementations provide a method performed by a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0019] Some example implementations provide a computer-readable storage medium implemented by a user equipment (UE), the computer-readable storage medium being non- transitory and having instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receive system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and select one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying figures, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific example implementation described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and example implementations, should be viewed as combinable unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise. [0021] It will therefore be appreciated that this Brief Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example implementations so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above described example implementations are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. Other example implementations, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of some described example implementations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE(S)

[0022] Having thus described example implementations of the disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a telecommunications system that includes one or more public land mobile networks (PLMNs) coupled to one or more external data networks, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a deployment of a PLMN, according to some example implementations; [0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a multi-operator core network (MOCN) deployment, according to some example implementations;

[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates a MOCN deployment with multiple shared networks, according to some example implementations;

[0027] FIG. 5 is a signaling chart for setup of a network interface between a radio access node and an access and mobility function (AMF) of a core network, according to some example implementations;

[0028] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D and 6E are flowcharts illustrating various steps in a method according to various example implementations;

[0029] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, 7G, 7H and 71 are flowcharts illustrating various steps in a method according to various example implementations;

[0030] FIGS. 8 A, 8B, 8C and 8D are flowcharts illustrating various steps in a method according to various example implementations; and

[0031] FIG. 9 illustrates an apparatus according to some example implementations. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Some implementations of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all implementations of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various implementations of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0033] Unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature else may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like.

[0034] As used herein, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, the “or” of a set of operands is the “inclusive or” and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the “exclusive or” which is false when all of the operands are true. Thus, for example, “[A] or [B]” is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more,” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, the terms “data,” “content,” “digital content,” “information,” and similar terms may be at times used interchangeably. The term “network” may refer to a group of interconnected computers including clients and servers; and within a network, these computers may be interconnected directly or indirectly by various means including via one or more switches, routers, gateways, access points or the like.

[0035] Reference may be made herein to terms specific to a particular system, architecture or the like, but it should be understood that example implementations of the present disclosure may be equally applicable to any of a number of systems, architectures and the like. For example, reference may be made to 3 GPP technologies such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), UMTS, LTE, LTE Advanced, 5GNR, 5G Advanced and 6G or higher generation mobile communication technology and their different versions; however, it should be understood that example implementations of the present disclosure may be equally applicable to non-3GPP technologies such as IEEE 802, Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy.

[0036] Further, as used in this application, the term “circuitry” may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and/or digital circuitry); (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): (i) a combination of analog and/or digital hardware circuit(s) with software/firmware and (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions); or (c) hardware circuit(s) and/or processor(s), such as a microprocessor s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.

[0037] The above definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and/or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a telecommunications system 100 according to various example implementations of the present disclosure. The telecommunications system generally includes one or more telecommunications networks. As shown, for example, the system includes one or more public land mobile networks (PLMNs) 102 coupled to one or more other external data networks 104 - notably including a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet. Each of the PLMNs includes a core network (CN) 106 backbone such as the Evolved Packet Core (EPC) of LTE, the 5G core network (5GC) or the like; and each of the core networks and the Internet are coupled to one or more radio access networks (RANs) 108, air interfaces or the like that implement one or more radio access technologies (RATs). As used herein, a “network device” refers to any suitable device at a network side of a telecommunications network. Examples of suitable network devices are described in greater detail below.

[0039] In addition, the system includes one or more radio units that may be varyingly known as user equipment (UE) 110, terminal device, terminal equipment, mobile station or the like. The UE is generally a device configured to communicate with a network device or a further UE in a telecommunication network. The UE may be a portable computer (e.g., laptop, notebook, tablet computer), mobile phone (e.g., cell phone, smartphone), wearable computer (e.g., smartwatch), or the like. In other examples, the UE may be an Internet of things (loT) device, an industrial loT (IIoT device), a vehicle equipped with a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication technology, or the like. In operation, these UEs may be configured to connect to one or more of the RANs 108 according to their particular radio access technologies to thereby access a particular CN 106 of a PLMN 102, or to access one or more of the external data networks 104 (e.g., the Internet). The external data network may be configured to provide Internet access, operator services, 3rd party services, etc. For example, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has classified 5G mobile network services into three categories: enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra- reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC), and massive machine type communications (mMTC) or massive internet of things (MIoT).

[0040] Examples of radio access technologies include 3 GPP radio access technologies such as GSM, UMTS, LTE, LTE Advanced, 5GNR, 5G Advanced, and 6G. Other examples of radio access technologies include IEEE 802 technologies such as IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.15 (including 802.15.1 (WPAN/Bluetooth), 802.15.4 (Zigbee) and 802.15.6 (WBAN)), Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), ultra wideband (UWB), and the like. Generally, a radio access technology may refer to any 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G or higher generation mobile communication technology and their different versions, as well as to any other wireless radio access technology that may be arranged to interwork with such a mobile communication technology to provide access to the CN 106 of a mobile network operator (MNO) (at times more generally referred to as a “network operator” or more simply an “operator”).

[0041] In various examples, a RAN 108 may be configured as one or more macrocells, microcells, picocells, femtocells or the like. The RAN may generally include one or more radio access nodes that are configured to interact with UEs 110. In various examples, a radio access node may be referred to as a base station (BS), access point (AP), base transceiver station (BTS), Node B (NB), evolved NB (eNB), macro BS, NB (MNB) or eNB (MeNB), home BS, NB (HNB) or eNB (HeNB), next generation NB (gNB), enhanced gNB (en-gNB), next generation eNB (ng- eNB), or the like. The RAN may include some type of network controlling/governing entity responsible for control of the radio access nodes. The network controlling/governing entity and radio access node may be separate or integrated into a single apparatus. The network controlling/governing entity may include processing circuity configured to carry out various management functions, etc. The processing circuity may be associated with a memory, computer- readable storage medium or database for maintaining information required in the management functions.

[0042] A RAN 108 may be centralized or distributed. In various examples, components of a RAN may be interconnected by Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), optical fiber, dark fiber, passive wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), WDM passive optical network (WDM-PON), optical transport network (OTN), time sensitive networking (TSN) and/or any other data link layer network, possibly including radio links. The RAN may be connected to a CN 106 through one or more gateways, network functions or the like.

[0043] As will be appreciated, a PLMN 102 may be deployed in a number of different manners. FIG. 2 illustrates a deployment 200 of a PLMN, such as a 4GLTE or 5G deployment, according to some example implementations. As shown, the deployment includes a CN 106, and RAN 108 with one or more radio access nodes 202 configured to interact with UEs 110. In a 4G LTE deployment, the EPC is the CN, and the evolved UMTS terrestrial radio access network (E- UTRAN) is the RAN; and the E-UTRAN includes one or more eNBs (radio access nodes) configured to connect UEs to the E-UTRAN to thereby access the EPC. Similarly, in a 5G deployment, the 5GC is the CN 106, and the next generation (NG) radio access network (NG- RAN) is the RAN 108; and the NG-RAN includes one or more gNBs (radio access nodes 202) configured to connect UEs 110 to the NG-RAN to thereby access the 5GC. The term ‘gNB’ in 5G may correspond to the eNB in 4G LTE.

[0044] Some deployments of 4G LTE and 5G in particular are considered standalone (SA) deployments. Other deployments combine 4G LTE and 5 G technologies, and are referred to as non-standalone (NSA) deployments. In some deployments, the E-UTRAN includes one or more ng-eNBs that are configured to communicate with the 5GC, and that may also be configured to communicate with one or more gNBs. Similarly, in another deployment, the NG-RAN may include one or more en-gNBs that are configured to communicate with the EPC, and that may also be configured to communicate with one or more eNBs. In various instances, a single UE 110, a dual-mode or multimode UE, may support multiple (two or more) RANs — thereby being configured to connect to multiple RANs, such as 4G LTE and 5G.

[0045] In some deployments, operations of a radio access node 202 may be distributed or functionally split into components including one or more remote radio head (RRHs) or radio units (RUs), and a baseband unit (BBU); and in some architectures, the BBU may be split into a distributed unit (DU) and a central/centralized unit (CU), such as a server, host or node. In some architectures, the RRH/RU and DU may be collocated. It is also possible that node operations may be distributed among a plurality of servers, hosts or nodes.

[0046] It should also be understood that the distribution of work between CN 106 operations and radio access node 202 operations may vary depending on implementation. Thus, a 5G network architecture may be based on a so-called CU-DU split. One gNB-CU (central node) may control one or more gNB-DUs. The gNB-CU may control a plurality of spatially separated gNB-DUs, acting at least as transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) nodes. In some example implementations, however, the gNB-DUs (also called DU) may include, for example, a radio link control (RLC), medium access control (MAC) layer and a physical (PHY) layer, whereas the gNB-CU (also called a CU) may include the layers above the RLC layer, such as a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, a radio resource control (RRC), and an internet protocol (IP) layer. Other functional splits are also possible. It is considered that a skilled person is familiar with the open systems interconnection (OSI) model and the functionalities within each layer.

[0047] In some example implementations, the server or CU may generate a virtual network through which the server communicates with the radio node. In general, virtual networking may involve a process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functionality into a single, software-based administrative entity, a virtual network. Such virtual network may provide flexible distribution of operations between the server and the radio head/node. In practice, any digital signal processing task may be performed in either the CU or the DU, and the boundary where the responsibility is shifted between the CU and the DU may be selected according to implementation. [0048] As explained above, it has been proposed to support network sharing among different operators. A network sharing architecture allows multiple operators to share resources of a shared network according to agreed allocation schemes. The shared network includes a RAN. The shared resources include radio resources. Network sharing is a way for the operators to share the heavy deployment costs for transport networks. In addition to a shared RAN, the operators may or may not have additional dedicated RANs.

[0049] There are a number of identified architectures supported by network sharing, including multi-operator core network (MOCN) in which only the RAN is shared. In MOCN, a shared network operator (also at times referred to as a hosting or master network operator) may allocate shared resources to one or more participating network operators, including radio resources of a shared RAN. In this regard, the shared network operator may also be a participating network operator in the shared network. The participating network operators (including the shared network operator) may connect their respective CNs to the shared RAN, which routes initial access of a UE 110 to the shared network to one of the available CNs. In this regard, the UE may inform the RAN of the chosen network operator so that the RAN can route correctly.

[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a MOCN deployment 300 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure. As shown, for example, the MOCN deployment includes a shared RAN 308 that is shared by multiple network operators, namely network operator A and network operator B. The shared RAN is connected to CNs 106A and 106B that are provided and operated by respective ones of the network operators. The operators can be identified by respective identities, such as PLMN identifiers (PLMN IDs). Accordingly, as an example, a network identifier “PLMN ID1” may concern operator A for CN 106A, while network identifier “PLMN ID2” may concern operator B for CN 106B. In some examples, operator A may be the shared network operator, and operator B may be a participating network operator.

[0051] In terms of network selection, the PLMN IDs of the network operators may be broadcast by the shared RAN 308 in a system information block (SIB), such as SIB1. The UE 110 may decode system information and perform a PLMN ID selection. The selected PLMN ID may concern network operator A for CN 106A, or network operator B for CN 106B. Assume for example that network operator B is a home network operator of the UE. That is, network operator B is the network operator of a home network of the UE, referred to in some examples as a home PLMN (HPLMN). In this example, the UE may select PLMN ID2 concerning the UE’s home network operator. The UE may then camp on a cell of the shared RAN to register to the correct CN (e.g., CN 106B). In this regard, the selected PLMN ID may be specified in an RRC connection procedure, and the radio access node 202 of the shared RAN may use the selected PLMN ID to forward an attachment request to the correct CN.

[0052] To facilitate network selection, the UE 110 may utilize information stored on the UE, such as in a subscriber identity module (SIM), embedded SIM (eSIM), universal subscriber identity module (USIM), IP multimedia services identity module (ISIM), integrated SIM (iSIM) or the like (any of the foregoing more generally referred to as a SIM). In this regard, the UE may store a number of elementary files for a number of services available to the to the UE. These elementary files include, for example, a “HPLMN Selector with Access Technology” data file (EFHPLMNWAOT), which may be used for network selection. This data file includes a list of PLMN/access technology combinations that are listed in priority order.

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates a MOCN deployment 400 with multiple shared networks, according to some example implementations. In FIG. 4, the MOCN deployment 400 includes multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C that are shared by multiple network operators. In this regard, a first shared RAN 308A is shared by network operator A and network operator B, and the first shared RAN is connected to CNs 106A and 106B, similar to MOCN deployment 300. The MOCN deployment also includes a second shared RAN 308C that is shared by multiple network operators, namely network operator B and network operator C; and the second shared RAN is connected to CNs 106B and 106C that are provided and operated by respective ones of network operators B and C. Similar to before, network operator C may be identified by an identity, such as a PLMN ID. In particular, for example, a network identifier “PLMN ID3” may concern operator C for CN 106C.

[0054] As described below, for example, operators A and C may be shared network operators for respective ones of two shared networks, and operator B may be a participating network operator in both of the shared networks. Operator B may also be a home network operator of a UE 110. Assume, for example, network operator B does not have its own RAN and has an arrangement to share the RAN from network operator A and network operator C. In this regard, network operator B may choose to share the RAN from multiple operators for reasons, such as to acquire ubiquitous RAN coverage in the whole country or region where operator B operates. In this and other arrangements, it is possible that in some areas there will be RAN coverage from both shared RANs 308A and 308C of shared network operators A and C.

[0055] The business agreement that network operator B has with one of the shared network operators (e.g., operator A) may be more beneficial compared to the other shared network operator (e.g., operator C). In this and other cases, the (participating) network operator B may want UEs 110 subscribing to network operator B to register via the first shared RAN 308A of network operator A, instead of the second shared RAN 308C of network operator C, the UEs are in coverage of the shared RANs of both shared network operators.

[0056] As indicated above, a UE 110 may utilize the “HPLMN Selector with Access Technology” data file for purposes of PLMN selection to the HPLMN of the UE, whenever available. This data file, however, only includes PLMN and access technology information. There is no information available to the UE for selection of a preferred shared network in a MOCN deployment in which the CN 106B of the UE’s home network operator (e.g., operator B) is connected to multiple shared networks of different network operators, and the UE is in coverage of multiple shared RANs of the multiple shared networks.

[0057] Example implementations of the present disclosure provide techniques whereby a UE 110 may select one of multiple shared RANs 308A, 308C in coverage of the UE for access to a home network of the UE. In this regard, the UE may have a subscription to a home network operator B participating in multiple shared networks of respective shared network operators A and C. According to some example implementations, the UE 110 may initiate a network selection procedure. The UE may determine the UE is in coverage of multiple shared RANs 308A, 308C of respective ones of the multiple shared networks that provide access to the CN 106B of the home network operator B.

[0058] In some examples, the UE 110 may receive system information (e.g., minimum system information, SIB1) broadcast from each of the multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core network operators (participating network operators) in a respective one of the multiple shared networks; and as explained below, the system information may also include one or more parameters per network identifier. The UE may then determine that the set of network identifiers from each of the multiple shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the home network operator of the UE. [0059] In particular, for example, the UE 110 may receive a SIB1 from the first shared RAN 308A that includes a set of PLMN IDs concerning participating network operators in the shared network of operator A (e.g., PLMN ID1, PLMN ID2). Similarly, the UE may receive a SIB1 from the second shared RAN 308C that includes a set of PLMN IDs concerning participating network operators in the shared network of operator C (e.g., PLMN ID2, PLMN ID3). The UE may then determine that the set of PLMN IDs from each of the shared RANs includes the PLMN ID (e.g., PLMN ID2) concerning the home network operator B.

[0060] Regardless of the exact manner by which the UE 110 determines the UE is in coverage of multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C, the UE may then select one of the multiple shared RANs. In particular, the UE may select one of the multiple shared RANs of one of the multiple shared networks based on information that indicates a preference for the one of the multiple shared networks relative to other of the multiple shared networks. The UE may then camp on a cell of the selected one of the multiple shared RANs to register to the CN of the home network operator B and end the network selection procedure.

[0061] The information that indicates the preference for one of the multiple shared networks relative to other of the multiple shared networks may be expressed in any of a number of different manners. Likewise, the information may be provided to the UE 110 in any of a number of different manners.

[0062] In some examples, the information includes a prioritized list of the multiple shared networks, and the UE 110 may select the one of the multiple shared RANs 308A or 308C of a higher priority one of the multiple shared networks based on the prioritized list. In some of these examples, the UE may access the prioritized list from a data file on the UE. One example of a suitable data file is an elementary file stored on the UE, such as in a SIM (e.g., SIM, eSIM, USIM, ISIM, iSIM) on the UE. In a more specific example described below, the prioritized list may be accessed from a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE. The UE may receive the prioritized list in a number of different manners, such as from the CN 106B of the home network operator B through provisioning.

[0063] In some examples, the multiple shared networks are identified in the prioritized list of the multiple shared networks by network identifiers concerning the respective shared network operators A and C. In some of these examples, the UE 110 may match the network identifiers for the multiple shared networks with corresponding priority values in the prioritized list. The UE may identify the higher priority one of the network identifiers for one of the multiple shared networks based on the corresponding priority values, and select the one of the multiple shared RANs 308A or 308C for the one of the multiple shared networks identified by the higher priority one of the network identifiers.

[0064] In a further example, the prioritized list may be a prioritized list of combinations of network identifier and access technology. The UE 110 may then select a higher priority combination of one of the network identifiers for one of the multiple shared networks, and an access technology of the one of the multiple shared RANs 308A or 308C. In some examples in which the prioritized list is access from an elementary file, the UE may make a determination that a shared RAN selector with access technology service is available; and based on the determination, the UE may access the prioritized list in a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE.

[0065] To further illustrate some of the above-described example implementations, the prioritized list may be expressed as follows:

Priority PLMN ID Access Technology

Priority 1 PLMN ID 1 5G NR

Priority 1 PLMN ID 1 LTE

Priority 2 PLMN ID2 5G NR

Priority 2 PLMN ID2 LTE

In an example in which the first shared RAN 308A employs 5G NR or LTE as its access technology, the UE 110 may select the first shared RAN for the higher priority combination of PLMN ID1 and the access technology of the first shared RAN.

[0066] In other examples, the information that indicates the preference for one of the multiple shared networks may include weightage values for respective ones of the multiple shared networks, which may be particular to the home network operator B of the UE 110. In some of these examples, the UE may select the one of the multiple shared RANs 308A or 308C of a higher weightage value one of the multiple shared networks based on the weightage values. In some of these examples, the weightage values may be received in system information from the multiple shared RANs. In particular, for example, the UE may receive system information from the multiple shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the multiple shared networks. The UE may then select one of the multiple shared RANs of a higher weightage value one of the multiple shared networks based on the weightage values.

[0067] In some examples, the system information that includes the weightage values may be received in the minimum system information (e.g., SIB1) broadcast from each of the multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C, and for each of the multiple shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the multiple shared networks. In some of these examples, the minimum system information broadcast from each of the multiple shared RANs may include the set of network identifiers (concerning available core network operators in a respective one of the multiple shared networks) and one or more parameters per network identifier. Examples of suitable parameters include cell identifier (cell-ID), tracking areas, closed access group (CAG) identifiers, or the like. The weightage value for the respective one of the multiple shared networks may then be received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier (e.g., PLMN ID2) concerning the home network operator B.

[0068] To further illustrate some example implementations, the minimum system information broadcast from respective ones of the first shared RAN 308A and the second shared RAN 308C may include the following network identifiers and parameters (including weightage value):

From shared RAN 308A- [PLMN ID1 (cell-ID, TAI), PLMN ID2 (cell-ID, TAI, weightage = 10)]

From shared RAN 308C - [PLMN ID2 (cell-ID, TAI, weightage = 8), PLMN ID3 (cell- ID, TAI)]

In this example, the UE 110 may select shared RAN 308A of the higher weightage value one of the multiple shared networks.

[0069] In some examples, the system information that includes the weightage values may be received in on-demand system information, and for each of the multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C includes a weightage value for the respective one of the multiple shared networks. In some of these examples, the UE may send a system information request to each of the multiple shared RANs, which may include the network identifier (e.g., PLMN ID2) concerning the home network operator B. The UE may then receive the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the multiple shared networks, based on the system information request (and perhaps also the network identifier of the home network operator). [0070] The weightage values may be configured in a number of different manners. In some examples, the weightage values may be configured to respective ones of the multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C by an access and mobility function (AMF) of the respective ones of the multiple shared networks. In this regard, the weightage values may be dynamically configured by the AMF of the respective ones of the multiple shared networks.

[0071] In 5GNR, a network interface between a radio access node 202 and the CN 106 is referred to as the NG interface, which is a network interface between the radio access node and an AMF of the 5GC. The network interface may support the exchange of signaling messages between the RAN 108 and the CN. The signaling messages may be formatted according to an application layer protocol, such as the NG application protocol (NGAP) for the NG interface. The NGAP supports a number of procedures, comprising elementary procedures, such as to establish, maintain or release the RAN.

[0072] FIG. 5 is a signaling chart 500 for setup of the NG interface between a radio access node and an AMF 502 of a CN, according to some example implementations. According to some example implementations, the radio access node may be a radio access node of one of the multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C, and the AMF may be an AMF of a respective one of the CNs 106A and 106C. As shown at step 1, the radio access node sends a NG setup request message to the AMF. The NG setup request message carries information about the radio access node and its respective shared RAN, including an indication of support of weightage values. In response to the NG setup request message, the AMF sends a NG setup response message back to the radio access node, which includes information about the AMF and its CN. The NG setup response message may also include weightage values particular to participating network operators of the shared RAN.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the weightage values may be configured through operations and management of respective ones of the multiple shared RANs 308A and 308C. In this regard, the weightage values may be locally / statically configured in the respective ones of the multiple shared RANs, such as based on business agreements with respective ones of the shared network operators A and C. In some examples in which the weightage values are both dynamically configured by the AMF, and locally / statically configured, the weightage values configured by the AMF may take precedence over the weightage values locally / statically configured. [0074] FIGS. 6A- 6E are flowcharts illustrating various steps in a method 600 according to various example implementations. The method includes determining, by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), In some of these examples, respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network, as shown at block 602 of FIG. 6A. And the method includes selecting, by the UE, a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs, as shown at block 604.

[0075] In some examples, the method 600 further includes, camping on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected, as shown at block 606 of FIG. 6B.

[0076] In some examples, the method 600 further includes, registering, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs that corresponds with the first shared RAN, as shown at block 608 of FIG. 6C.

[0077] In some examples, the plurality of shared RANs comprise the first shared RAN and a second shared RAN. In some of these examples, the first shared RAN corresponds to a first MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a first core network different from the core network of the home network, and the second shared RAN corresponds to a second MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a second core network different from the core network of the home network. Also in some of these examples, the first MOCN is different from the second MOCN.

[0078] In some examples, determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs at block 602 includes receiving, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN, as shown at block 610 of FIG. 6D. In some of these examples, determining the UE is in the coverage area also includes determining the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE, as shown at block 612.

[0079] In some examples, the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs. In some of these examples, the first shared RAN is selected at block 604 based on the prioritized list, In some of these examples, a priority of the first shared RAN is higher relative to respective priorities of other shared RANs identified on the prioritized list.

[0080] In some examples, the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0081] In some examples, the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs. In some of these examples, each shared RAN is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations. A respective combination of the combinations comprises a respective identifier of a shared RAN of the plurality of share RANs and a respective identifier of access technology for the shared RAN of the respective combination. And a priority of a first combination on the prioritized list that is associated with first shared RAN is higher relative to other combinations on the prioritized list.

[0082] In some examples, the method 600 further includes, camping, utilizing an access technology identified by the identifier of access technology of the first combination, on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected, as shown at block 614 of FIG. 6E.

[0083] In some examples, the information includes a plurality of weightage values for the plurality of shared RANs, with a respective weightage value for each respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs. In some of these examples, the first shared RAN is selected at block 604 based on the plurality of weightage values, where a weightage value of the first RAN is higher relative to the respective weightage values of other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0084] In some examples, the plurality of weightage values is received in system information from the plurality of shared RANs.

[0085] In some examples, the plurality of weightage values are configured to the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the core network of the home network of the UE, or through operations and management of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0086] FIGS. 7A- 71 are flowcharts illustrating various steps in a method 700 performed by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, according to various example implementations. The method includes determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs) , as shown at block 702 of FIG. 7A. Respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network. And the method includes selecting a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN, as shown at block 704.

[0087] In some examples, selecting the first shared RAN at block 704 is based on a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0088] In some examples, the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0089] In some examples, the method 700 further includes receiving the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs at the UE from the core network of the home network through provisioning, as shown at block 706 of FIG. 7B.

[0090] In some examples, the method 700 further includes camping on a cell of the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs that is selected, as shown at block 708 of FIG. 7C.

[0091] In some examples, the method 700 further includes registering, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCN, In some of these examples, the first MOCN corresponds with the first shared RAN, as shown at block 710 of FIG. 7D.

[0092] In some examples, determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs at block 702 includes receiving, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN, as shown at block 712 of FIG. 7E. In some of these examples, determining the UE is in the coverage area also includes determining the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE, as shown at block 714. [0093] In some examples, selecting the first shared RAN at block 704 comprises accessing a prioritized list of the plurality of RANs from an elementary file stored on the UE, and selecting the first shared RAN based on the prioritized list, as shown at block 716 of FIG. 7F.

[0094] In some examples, the plurality of MOCNs are identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a plurality of network identifiers. In some of these examples, selecting the first shared RAN at block 704 includes matching the plurality of network identifiers for the plurality of MOCNs with a corresponding plurality of priority values in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs, as shown at block 718 of FIG. 7G. Also in some of these examples, selecting the first shared RAN includes identifying a higher priority network identifier for the higher priority MOCN based on the corresponding plurality of priority values, as shown at block 720. And selecting the first shared RAN includes selecting the first shared RAN for the higher priority MOCN identified by the higher priority network identifier, as shown at block 722.

[0095] In some examples, each MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations of network identifier and access technology. In some of these examples, selecting the first shared RAN at block 704 includes selecting a higher priority combination of the network identifier of the higher priority MOCN, and an access technology of the first shared RAN, as shown at block 724 of FIG. 7H. [0096] In some examples, the method 700 further includes making a determination that a shared RAN selector with access technology service is available, as shown at block 726 of FIG. 71. In some of these examples, the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs is accessed at block 716 based on the determination, and a data file from which the prioritized list is accessed is a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE.

[0097] FIGS. 8A- 8D are flowcharts illustrating various steps in a method 800 performed by a user equipment (UE), according to various example implementations. The method includes determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multioperator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed, as shown at block 802 of FIG. 8 A. The method includes receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs, as shown at block 804. And the method includes selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values, as shown at block 806.

[0098] In some examples, the method 800 further includes camping on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, as shown at block 808 of FIG. 8B.

[0099] In some examples, determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs at block 802 includes receiving minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs, as shown at block 810 of FIG. 8C. In some of these examples, determining the UE is in the coverage area also includes determining the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, as shown at block 812.

[0100] In some examples, the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0101] In some examples, the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE. In some of these examples, the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0102] In some examples, the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0103] In some examples, receiving the system information at block 804 includes sending a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs, as shown at block 814 of FIG. 8D. And based on the system information request, the method includes receiving the on- demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs, as shown at block 816.

[0104] In some examples, the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are parti cular to the home public land mobile network of the UE. In some of these examples, the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs at block 814 includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE. Also in some of these examples, the on-demand system information is received at block 816 based on the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network.

[0105] In some examples, the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0106] In some examples, the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0107] According to example implementations of the present disclosure, a telecommunications system 100 or PLMN 102, and its components such as a UE 110, CN 106 (as well as CNs 106A, 106B, 106C), RAN 108 (as well as shared RANs 308A, 308C), radio access node 202 and/or AMF 502, may be implemented by various means. Means for implementing the system and its components may include hardware, firmware, software, or combinations thereof. In some examples, one or more apparatuses may be configured to function as or otherwise implement the system and its components shown and described herein. In examples involving more than one apparatus, the respective apparatuses may be connected to or otherwise in communication with one another in a number of different manners, such as directly or indirectly via a wired or wireless network or the like.

[0108] According to some example implementations, at least some of the method 600 described with respect to FIGS. 6 A - 6E may be carried out by an apparatus comprising means for performing functions corresponding steps of the method. Similarly, at least some of the method 700 described with respect to FIGS. 7A - 71 may be carried out by an apparatus comprising means for performing functions corresponding steps of the method. And at least some of the method 800 described with respect to FIGS. 8 A - 8D may be carried out by an apparatus comprising means for performing functions corresponding steps of the method. Examples of a suitable apparatus may include a user equipment, user device, user terminal or the like.

[0109] FIG. 9 illustrates an apparatus 900 in which means for performing various functions includes hardware, alone or under direction of one or more computer programs from a computer- readable storage medium or other memory, such as computer memory, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure. Generally, an apparatus of example implementations of the present disclosure may comprise, include or be embodied in one or more fixed or portable electronic devices. Examples of suitable electronic devices include a wearable computer, mobile phone, portable computer, desktop computer, workstation computer, server (server computer) or the like. The apparatus may include one or more of each of a number of components such as, for example, processing circuitry 902 connected to computer-readable storage medium or other memory 904.

[0110] The processing circuitry 902 may be composed of one or more processors alone or in combination with one or more computer-readable storage media. The processing circuitry is generally any piece of computer hardware that is capable of processing information such as, for example, data, computer programs and/or other suitable electronic information. The processing circuitry is composed of a collection of electronic circuits some of which may be packaged as an integrated circuit or multiple interconnected integrated circuits (an integrated circuit at times more commonly referred to as a “chip”). The processing circuitry may be configured to execute computer programs, which may be stored onboard the processing circuitry or otherwise stored in the memory 904 (of the same or another apparatus).

[0111] The processing circuitry 902 may be a number of processors, a multi-core processor or some other type of processor, depending on the particular implementation. Further, the processing circuitry may be implemented using a number of heterogeneous processor systems in which a main processor is present with one or more secondary processors on a single chip. As another illustrative example, the processing circuitry may be a symmetric multi-processor system containing multiple processors of the same type. In yet another example, the processing circuitry may be embodied as or otherwise include one or more ASICs, FPGAs or the like. Thus, although the processing circuitry may be capable of executing a computer program to perform one or more functions, the processing circuitry of various examples may be capable of performing one or more functions without the aid of a computer program. In either instance, the processing circuitry may be appropriately programmed to perform functions or operations according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0112] The memory 904 is generally any piece of computer hardware that is capable of storing information such as, for example, data, computer programs, instructions 906 (e.g., computer- readable program code) and/or other suitable information either on a temporary basis and/or a permanent basis. The memory may include volatile and/or non-volatile memory, and may be fixed or removable. Examples of suitable memory include recording media, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), a hard drive, a flash memory, a thumb drive, a removable computer diskette, an optical disk or some combination thereof.

[0113] The memory 904 is a non-transitory device capable of storing information. One example of a suitable memory is a computer-readable storage medium, which is distinguishable from a computer-readable transmission medium capable of carrying information from one location to another. Examples of suitable computer-readable transmission media comprise electronic carrier signals, telecommunications signals, software distribution packages, or some combination thereof. As used herein, the term “non-transitory” is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM versus ROM). A computer-readable medium as described herein generally refers to a computer-readable storage medium or computer-readable transmission medium. A computer-readable medium is any entity or device capable in which information, such as one or more computer programs or portions thereof, may be stored and carried.

[0114] In addition to the memory 904 (e.g., computer-readable storage medium), the processing circuitry 902 may also be connected to one or more interfaces for displaying, transmitting and/or receiving information. The interfaces may include a communications interface 908 and/or one or more user interfaces. The communications interface may be configured to transmit and/or receive information, such as to and/or from other apparatus(es), network(s) or the like. The communications interface may be configured to transmit and/or receive information by physical (wired) and/or wireless communications links. Examples of suitable communication interfaces include a network interface controller (NIC), wireless NIC (WNIC) or the like.

[0115] The user interfaces may include a display 910 and/or one or more user input interfaces 912. The display may be configured to present or otherwise display information to a user, suitable examples of which include a liquid crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode (LED) display, organic LED (OLED) display, active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) or the like. The user input interfaces may be wired or wireless, and may be configured to receive information from a user into the apparatus, such as for processing, storage and/or display. Suitable examples of user input interfaces include a microphone, image or video capture device, keyboard or keypad, joystick, touch-sensitive surface (separate from or integrated into a touchscreen), biometric sensor or the like. The user interfaces may further include one or more interfaces for communicating with peripherals such as printers, scanners or the like.

[0116] Execution of the instructions 906 by the processing circuitry 902, or storage of the instructions in the memory 904, supports combinations of operations for implementing example implementations of the present disclosure. In this manner, an apparatus 900 may comprise at least one processing circuitry and at least one memory coupled to the at least one processing circuitry, where the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute instructions stored in the at least one memory. It will also be understood that one or more functions, and combinations of functions, may be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems and/or processing circuitry which perform the specified functions, or combinations of special purpose hardware and program code instructions.

[0117] Some example implementations of the present disclosure may also be carried out in the form of a computer process defined by one or more computer programs or portions thereof. Example implementations of the present disclosure may be carried out by executing at least one portion of a computer program comprising instructions. The computer program may be in source code form, object code form, or in some intermediate form. The computer program may be stored in a computer-readable medium that is readable by a computer, processing circuitry or other suitable apparatus. As indicated above, for example, the computer program may be stored in a memory, such as a computer-readable storage medium. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the computer program may be stored in a computer-readable transmission medium. The coding of software for carrying out example implementations of the present disclosure is well within the scope of a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0118] As will be appreciated, any suitable instructions may be loaded onto a computer, a processing circuitry or other programmable apparatus from a memory or a computer-readable medium (e.g., computer-readable storage medium, computer-readable transmission medium) to produce a particular machine, such that the particular machine becomes a means for implementing the functions specified herein. The instructions may also be stored in a computer- readable medium that can direct a computer, a processing circuitry or other programmable apparatus to function in a particular manner to thereby generate a particular machine or particular article of manufacture. In some examples, the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium may produce an article of manufacture, where the article of manufacture becomes a means for implementing functions described herein. The instructions may be retrieved from a computer-readable medium and loaded into a computer, processing circuitry or other programmable apparatus to configure the computer, processing circuitry or other programmable apparatus to execute operations to be performed on or by the computer, processing circuitry or other programmable apparatus.

[0119] Retrieval, loading and execution of instructions comprising program code instructions may be performed sequentially such that one instruction is retrieved, loaded and executed at a time. In some example implementations, retrieval, loading and/or execution may be performed in parallel such that multiple instructions are retrieved, loaded, and/or executed together. Execution of the program code instructions may produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions executed by the computer, processing circuitry or other programmable apparatus provide operations for implementing functions described herein.

[0120] As explained above and reiterated below, the present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following example implementations.

[0121] Clause 1. An apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, the apparatus comprising: at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processing circuitry configured to access the at least one memory, and execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to at least: determine that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOON) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs. [0122] Clause 2. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further camp on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0123] Clause 3. The apparatus of clause 2, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further register, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs that corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0124] Clause 4. The apparatus of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of shared RANs comprise the first shared RAN and a second shared RAN, the first shared RAN corresponding to a first MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a first core network different from the core network of the home network, the second shared RAN corresponding to a second MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a second core network different from the core network of the home network, wherein the first MOCN is different from the second MOCN.

[0125] Clause 5. The apparatus of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the apparatus caused to determine the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes the apparatus caused to at least: receive, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and determine the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0126] Clause 6. The apparatus of any of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the prioritized list, wherein a priority of the first shared RAN is higher relative to respective priorities of other shared RANs identified on the prioritized list.

[0127] Clause 7. The apparatus of clause 6, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0128] Clause 8. The apparatus of any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, wherein each shared RAN is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and wherein the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations, a respective combination of the combinations comprising a respective identifier of a shared RAN of the plurality of share RANs and a respective identifier of access technology for the shared RAN of the respective combination, and wherein a priority of a first combination on the prioritized list that is associated with first shared RAN is higher relative to other combinations on the prioritized list.

[0129] Clause 9. The apparatus of clause 8, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further camp, utilizing an access technology identified by the identifier of access technology of the first combination, on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0130] Clause 10. The apparatus of any of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the information includes a plurality of weightage values for the plurality of shared RANs, a respective weightage value for each respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the plurality of weightage values, wherein a weightage value of the first RAN is higher relative to the respective weightage values of other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0131] Clause 11. The apparatus of clause 10, wherein the plurality of weightage values is received in system information from the plurality of shared RANs.

[0132] Clause 12. The apparatus of clause 11, wherein the plurality of weightage values are configured to the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the core network of the home network of the UE, or through operations and management of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0133] Clause 13. An apparatus comprising: means for determining, by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and means for selecting, by the UE, a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0134] Clause 14. The apparatus of clause 13 further comprising, means for camping on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0135] Clause 15. The apparatus of clause 14 further comprising, means for registering, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs that corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0136] Clause 16. The apparatus of any of clauses 13 to 15, wherein the plurality of shared RANs comprise the first shared RAN and a second shared RAN, the first shared RAN corresponding to a first MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a first core network different from the core network of the home network, the second shared RAN corresponding to a second MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a second core network different from the core network of the home network, wherein the first MOCN is different from the second MOCN.

[0137] Clause 17. The apparatus of any of clauses 13 to 16, wherein the means for determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: means for receiving, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and means for determining the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0138] Clause 18. The apparatus of any of clauses 13 to 17, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the prioritized list, wherein a priority of the first shared RAN is higher relative to respective priorities of other shared RANs identified on the prioritized list.

[0139] Clause 19. The apparatus of clause 18, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0140] Clause 20. The apparatus of any of clauses 13 to 19, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, wherein each shared RAN is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and wherein the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations, a respective combination of the combinations comprising a respective identifier of a shared RAN of the plurality of share RANs and a respective identifier of access technology for the shared RAN of the respective combination, and wherein a priority of a first combination on the prioritized list that is associated with first shared RAN is higher relative to other combinations on the prioritized list.

[0141] Clause 21. The apparatus of clause 20 further comprising, means for camping, utilizing an access technology identified by the identifier of access technology of the first combination, on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0142] Clause 22. The apparatus of any of clauses 13 to 21, wherein the information includes a plurality of weightage values for the plurality of shared RANs, a respective weightage value for each respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the plurality of weightage values, wherein a weightage value of the first RAN is higher relative to the respective weightage values of other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0143] Clause 23. The apparatus of clause 22, wherein the plurality of weightage values is received in system information from the plurality of shared RANs.

[0144] Clause 24. The apparatus of clause 23, wherein the plurality of weightage values are configured to the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the core network of the home network of the UE, or through operations and management of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0145] Clause 25. A method comprising: determining, by a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and selecting, by the UE, a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs. [0146] Clause 26. The method of clause 25 further comprising, camping on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0147] Clause 27. The method of clause 26 further comprising, registering, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs that corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0148] Clause 28. The method of any of clauses 25 to 27, wherein the plurality of shared RANs comprise the first shared RAN and a second shared RAN, the first shared RAN corresponding to a first MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a first core network different from the core network of the home network, the second shared RAN corresponding to a second MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a second core network different from the core network of the home network, wherein the first MOCN is different from the second MOCN.

[0149] Clause 29. The method of any of clauses 25 to 28, wherein determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: receiving, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and determining the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0150] Clause 30. The method of any of clauses 25 to 29, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the prioritized list, wherein a priority of the first shared RAN is higher relative to respective priorities of other shared RANs identified on the prioritized list.

[0151] Clause 31. The method of clause 30, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0152] Clause 32. The method of any of clauses 25 to 31, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, wherein each shared RAN is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and wherein the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations, a respective combination of the combinations comprising a respective identifier of a shared RAN of the plurality of share RANs and a respective identifier of access technology for the shared RAN of the respective combination, and wherein a priority of a first combination on the prioritized list that is associated with first shared RAN is higher relative to other combinations on the prioritized list.

[0153] Clause 33. The method of clause 32 further comprising, camping, utilizing an access technology identified by the identifier of access technology of the first combination, on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0154] Clause 34. The method of any of clauses 25 to 33, wherein the information includes a plurality of weightage values for the plurality of shared RANs, a respective weightage value for each respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the plurality of weightage values, wherein a weightage value of the first RAN is higher relative to the respective weightage values of other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0155] Clause 35. The method of clause 34, wherein the plurality of weightage values is received in system information from the plurality of shared RANs.

[0156] Clause 36. The method of clause 35, wherein the plurality of weightage values are configured to the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the core network of the home network of the UE, or through operations and management of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0157] Clause 37. A computer-readable storage medium implemented at a user equipment (UE) having a subscription to a home network, the computer-readable storage medium being non- transitory and having instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to at least: determine that the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCNs, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on information that indicates a preference for the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs relative to other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs. [0158] Clause 38. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 37, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further camp on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0159] Clause 39. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 38, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further register, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs that corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0160] Clause 40. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 37 to 39, wherein the plurality of shared RANs comprise the first shared RAN and a second shared RAN, the first shared RAN corresponding to a first MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a first core network different from the core network of the home network, the second shared RAN corresponding to a second MOCN comprising the core network of the home network and a second core network different from the core network of the home network, wherein the first MOCN is different from the second MOCN.

[0161] Clause 41. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 37 to 40, wherein the apparatus caused to determine the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes the apparatus caused to at least: receive, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and determine the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0162] Clause 42. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 37 to 41, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the prioritized list, wherein a priority of the first shared RAN is higher relative to respective priorities of other shared RANs identified on the prioritized list.

[0163] Clause 43. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 42, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0164] Clause 44. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 37 to 43, wherein the information includes a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs, wherein each shared RAN is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and wherein the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations, a respective combination of the combinations comprising a respective identifier of a shared RAN of the plurality of share RANs and a respective identifier of access technology for the shared RAN of the respective combination, and wherein a priority of a first combination on the prioritized list that is associated with first shared RAN is higher relative to other combinations on the prioritized list.

[0165] Clause 45. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 44, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further camp, utilizing an access technology identified by the identifier of access technology of the first combination, on a cell of the first shared RAN that is selected.

[0166] Clause 46. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 37 to 45, wherein the information includes a plurality of weightage values for the plurality of shared RANs, a respective weightage value for each respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the plurality of weightage values, wherein a weightage value of the first RAN is higher relative to the respective weightage values of other shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0167] Clause 47. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 46, wherein the plurality of weightage values is received in system information from the plurality of shared RANs.

[0168] Clause 48. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 47, wherein the plurality of weightage values are configured to the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the core network of the home network of the UE, or through operations and management of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0169] Clause 49. An apparatus comprising means for performing the method of any of clauses 25 to 36.

[0170] Clause 50. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 25 to 36.

[0171] Clause 51. A computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 25 to 36. [0172] Clause 52. A computer program comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 25 to 36.

[0173] Clause 53. An apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the apparatus comprising: at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processing circuitry configured to access the at least one memory, and execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0174] Clause 54. The apparatus of clause 53, wherein the apparatus is caused to select the first shared RAN based on a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0175] Clause 55. The apparatus of clause 54, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0176] Clause 56. The apparatus of clause 54 or clause 55, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further at least: receive the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs at the UE from the core network of the home network through provisioning.

[0177] Clause 57. The apparatus of any of clauses 53 to 56, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further at least: camp on a cell of the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs that is selected.

[0178] Clause 58. The apparatus of clause 57, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further at least: register, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCN, wherein the first MOCN corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0179] Clause 59. The apparatus of any of clauses 53 to 58, wherein the apparatus caused to determine the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes the apparatus caused to at least: receive, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and determine the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0180] Clause 60. The apparatus of any of clauses 53 to 59, wherein the apparatus caused to select the first shared RAN includes the apparatus caused to access a prioritized list of the plurality of RANs from an elementary file stored on the UE, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the prioritized list.

[0181] Clause 61. The apparatus of clause 60, wherein the plurality of MOCNs are identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a plurality of network identifiers, and the apparatus caused to select the first shared RAN includes the apparatus caused to at least: match the plurality of network identifiers for the plurality of MOCNs with a corresponding plurality of priority values in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs; identify a higher priority network identifier for the higher priority MOCN based on the corresponding plurality of priority values; and select the first shared RAN for the higher priority MOCN identified by the higher priority network identifier.

[0182] Clause 62. The apparatus of clause 60 or clause 61, wherein each MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations of network identifier and access technology, and wherein the apparatus caused to select the first shared RAN includes the apparatus caused to select a higher priority combination of the network identifier of the higher priority MOCN, and an access technology of the first shared RAN.

[0183] Clause 63. The apparatus of clause 62, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further make a determination that a shared RAN selector with access technology service is available, and wherein the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs is accessed based on the determination, and a data file from which the prioritized list is accessed is a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE. [0184] Clause 64. An apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the apparatus comprising: means for determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and means for selecting a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0185] Clause 65. The apparatus of clause 64, wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0186] Clause 66. The apparatus of clause 65, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0187] Clause 67. The apparatus of clause 65 or clause 66 further comprising: means for receiving the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs at the UE from the core network of the home network through provisioning.

[0188] Clause 68. The apparatus of any of clauses 64 to 67 further comprising: means for camping on a cell of the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs that is selected.

[0189] Clause 69. The apparatus of clause 68 further comprising: means for registering, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCN, wherein the first MOCN corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0190] Clause 70. The apparatus of any of clauses 64 to 69, wherein the means for determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: means for receiving, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and means for determining the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0191] Clause 71. The apparatus of any of clauses 64 to 70, wherein the means for selecting the first shared RAN comprises means for accessing a prioritized list of the plurality of RANs from an elementary file stored on the UE, and wherein selecting the first shared RAN is based on the prioritized list.

[0192] Clause 72. The apparatus of clause 71, wherein the plurality of MOCNs are identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a plurality of network identifiers, and the means for selecting the first shard RAN includes: means for matching the plurality of network identifiers for the plurality of MOCNs with a corresponding plurality of priority values in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs; means for identifying a higher priority network identifier for the higher priority MOCN based on the corresponding plurality of priority values; and means for selecting the first shared RAN for the higher priority MOCN identified by the higher priority network identifier.

[0193] Clause 73. The apparatus of clause 71 or clause 72, wherein each MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations of network identifier and access technology, and wherein the means for selecting the first shared RAN includes means for selecting a higher priority combination of the network identifier of the higher priority MOCN, and an access technology of the first shared RAN.

[0194] Clause 74. The apparatus of clause 73 further comprising means for making a determination that a shared RAN selector with access technology service is available, and wherein the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs is accessed based on the determination, and a data file from which the prioritized list is accessed is a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE.

[0195] Clause 75. A method performed by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the method comprising: determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and selecting a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN. [0196] Clause 76. The method of clause 75, wherein selecting the first shared RAN is based on a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0197] Clause 77. The method of clause 76, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0198] Clause 78. The method of clause 76 or clause 77 further comprising: receiving the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs at the UE from the core network of the home network through provisioning.

[0199] Clause 79. The method of any of clauses 75 to 78 further comprising: camping on a cell of the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs that is selected.

[0200] Clause 80. The method of clause 79 further comprising: registering, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCN, wherein the first MOCN corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0201] Clause 81. The method of any of clauses 75 to 80, wherein determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: receiving, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and determining the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0202] Clause 82. The method of any of clauses 75 to 81, wherein selecting the first shared RAN comprising accessing a prioritized list of the plurality of RANs from an elementary file stored on the UE, and wherein selecting the first shared RAN is based on the prioritized list.

[0203] Clause 83. The method of clause 82, wherein the plurality of MOCNs are identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a plurality of network identifiers, and selecting the first shared RAN includes: matching the plurality of network identifiers for the plurality of MOCNs with a corresponding plurality of priority values in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs; identifying a higher priority network identifier for the higher priority MOCN based on the corresponding plurality of priority values; and selecting the first shared RAN for the higher priority MOCN identified by the higher priority network identifier. [0204] Clause 84. The method of clause 82 or clause 83, wherein each MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations of network identifier and access technology, and wherein selecting the first shared RAN includes selecting a higher priority combination of the network identifier of the higher priority MOCN, and an access technology of the first shared RAN.

[0205] Clause 85. The method of clause 84 further comprising making a determination that a shared RAN selector with access technology service is available, and wherein the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs is accessed based on the determination, and a data file from which the prioritized list is accessed is a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE.

[0206] Clause 86. A computer-readable storage medium implemented by a user equipment (UE) subscribed to a home network, the computer-readable storage medium being non-transitory and having instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), wherein respective shared RANs of the plurality of shared RANs provide access to a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality MOCN, respective MOCNs of the plurality of MOCNs operated by other than an operator of the home network and comprising a core network of the home network and a respective core network different from the core network of the home network; and select a first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs based on a priority of the first shared RAN relative to respective priorities of others of the plurality of shared RAN.

[0207] Clause 87. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 86, wherein the apparatus is caused to select the first shared RAN based on a prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs. [0208] Clause 88. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 87, wherein the prioritized list is stored in a data file on the UE.

[0209] Clause 89. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 87 or clause 88, wherein the computer-readable storage medium has further instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by the at least one processing circuitry, causes the apparatus to further at least: receive the prioritized list of the plurality of shared RANs at the UE from the core network of the home network through provisioning. [0210] Clause 90. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 86 to 89, wherein the computer-readable storage medium has further instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by the at least one processing circuitry, causes the apparatus to further at least: camp on a cell of the first shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs that is selected.

[0211] Clause 91. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 90, wherein the computer- readable storage medium has further instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by the at least one processing circuitry, causes the apparatus to further at least: register, via the first shared RAN, with the core network of the home network of a first MOCN of the plurality of MOCN, wherein the first MOCN corresponds with the first shared RAN.

[0212] Clause 92. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 86 to 91, wherein the apparatus caused to determine the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes the apparatus caused to at l east: receive, for each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, respective system information from a respective shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs, the respective system information including a respective set of network identifiers that identify available core networks in a respective MOCN corresponding to the respective shared RAN; and determine the set of network identifiers from each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier that identifies the core network of the home network of the UE.

[0213] Clause 93. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 86 to 92, wherein the apparatus caused to select the first shared RAN includes the apparatus caused to access a prioritized list of the plurality of RANs from an elementary file stored on the UE, and wherein the first shared RAN is selected based on the prioritized list.

[0214] Clause 94. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 93, wherein the plurality of MOCNs are identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a plurality of network identifiers, and the apparatus caused to select the first shared RAN includes the apparatus caused to at least: match the plurality of network identifiers for the plurality of MOCNs with a corresponding plurality of priority values in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs; identify a higher priority network identifier for the higher priority MOCN based on the corresponding plurality of priority values; and select the first shared RAN for the higher priority MOCN identified by the higher priority network identifier. [0215] Clause 95. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 93 or clause 94, wherein each MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs is identified in the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs by a corresponding network identifier of a plurality of network identifiers, and the prioritized list is a prioritized list of combinations of network identifier and access technology, and wherein the apparatus caused to select the first shared RAN includes the apparatus caused to select a higher priority combination of the network identifier of the higher priority MOCN, and an access technology of the first shared RAN.

[0216] Clause 96. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 95, wherein the computer- readable storage medium has further instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by the at least one processing circuitry, causes the apparatus to further make a determination that a shared RAN selector with access technology service is available, and wherein the prioritized list of the plurality of MOCNs is accessed based on the determination, and a data file from which the prioritized list is accessed is a shared RAN selector with access technology elementary file stored on the UE.

[0217] Clause 97. An apparatus comprising means for performing the method of any of clauses 75 to 85.

[0218] Clause 98. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 75 to 85.

[0219] Clause 99. A computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 75 to 85.

[0220] Clause 100. A computer program comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 75 to 85.

[0221] Clause 101. An apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processing circuitry configured to access the at least one memory, and execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receive system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and select one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0222] Clause 102. The apparatus of clause 101, wherein the at least one processing circuitry is configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to further camp on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0223] Clause 103. The apparatus of clause 101 or clause 102, wherein the apparatus caused to determine the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes the apparatus caused to at least: receive minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs; and determine the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0224] Clause 104. The apparatus of clause 103, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plural ity of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0225] Clause 105. The apparatus of clause 104, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0226] Clause 106. The apparatus of any of clauses 101 to 105, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs. [0227] Clause 107. The apparatus of clause 106, wherein the apparatus caused to receive the system information includes the apparatus caused to at least: send a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs; and based on the system information request, receive the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0228] Clause 108. The apparatus of clause 107, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, and the on-demand system information is received based on the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network.

[0229] Clause 109. The apparatus of any of clauses 101 to 108, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0230] Clause 110. The apparatus of any of clauses 101 to 109, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0231] Clause 111. An apparatus implemented by a user equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: means for determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; means for receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and means for selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0232] Clause 112. The apparatus of clause 111 further comprising means for camping on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobil e network of the UE.

[0233] Clause 113. The apparatus of clause 111 or clause 112, wherein the means for determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: means for receiving minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs; and means for determining the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home publ ic land mobile network of the UE.

[0234] Clause 114. The apparatus of clause 113, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0235] Clause 115. The apparatus of clause 114, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0236] Clause 116. The apparatus of any of clauses 111 to 115, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0237] Clause 117. The apparatus of clause 116, wherein the means for receiving the system information includes: means for sending a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs; and based on the system information request, means for receiving the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0238] Clause 118. The apparatus of clause 117, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, and the on-demand system information is received based on the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network. [0239] Clause 119. The apparatus of any of clauses 111 to 118, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0240] Clause 120. The apparatus of any of clauses 111 to 119, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0241] Clause 121. A method performed by a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multioperator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0242] Clause 122. The method of clause 121 further comprising camping on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0243] Clause 123. The method of clause 121 or clause 122, wherein determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: receiving minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs; and determining the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0244] Clause 124. The method of clause 123, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0245] Clause 125. The method of clause 124, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0246] Clause 126. The method of any of clauses 121 to 125, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0247] Clause 127. The method of clause 126, wherein receiving the system information includes: sending a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs; and based on the system information request, receiving the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0248] Clause 128. The method of clause 127, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, and the on-demand system information is received based on the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network. [0249] Clause 129. The method of any of clauses 121 to 128, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0250] Clause 130. The method of any of clauses 121 to 129, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0251] Clause 131. A computer-readable storage medium implemented by a user equipment (UE), the computer-readable storage medium being non-transitory and having instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to at least: determine the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receive system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and select one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

[0252] Clause 132. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 131, wherein the computer-readable storage medium has further instructions stored therein that, in response to execution by the at least one processing circuitry, causes the apparatus to further camp on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0253] Clause 133. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 131 or clause 132, wherein the apparatus caused to determine the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes the apparatus caused to at least: receive minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs; and determine the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE. [0254] Clause 134. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 133, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0255] Clause 135. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 134, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE. [0256] Clause 136. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 131 to 135, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs. [0257] Clause 137. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 136, wherein the apparatus caused to receive the system information includes the apparatus caused to at least: send a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs; and based on the system information request, receive the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

[0258] Clause 138. The computer-readable storage medium of clause 137, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, and the on-demand system information is received based on the network identifi er concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network.

[0259] Clause 139. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 131 to 138, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

[0260] Clause 140. The computer-readable storage medium of any of clauses 131 to 139, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.

[0261] Clause 141. An apparatus comprising means for performing the method of any of clauses 121 to 130.

[0262] Clause 142. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 121 to 130.

[0263] Clause 143. A computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 121 to 130.

[0264] Clause 144. A computer program comprising instructions that, in response to execution by at least one processing circuitry, causes an apparatus to perform the method of any of clauses 121 to 130. [0265] Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and the associated figures describe example implementations in the context of certain example combinations of elements and/or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and/or functions may be provided by alternative implementations without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and/or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A user equipment comprising: means for determining the user equipment is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the user equipment is subscribed; means for receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and means for selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

2. The user equipment of claim 1 further comprising means for camping on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the user equipment.

3. The user equipment of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the means for determining the user equipment is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: means for receiving minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs; and means for determining the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the user equipment.

4. The user equipment of claim 3, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

5. The user equipment of claim 4, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the user equipment, and wherein the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the user equipment.

6. The user equipment of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

7. The user equipment of claim 6, wherein the means for receiving the system information includes: means for sending a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs; and based on the system information request, means for receiving the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

8. The user equipment of claim 7, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the user equipment, and wherein the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the user equipment, and the on-demand system information is received based on the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network.

9. The user equipment of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the user equipment.

10. The user equipment of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.

11. A method performed by a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: determining the UE is in a coverage area of a plurality of shared radio access networks (RANs), each shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs associated with a corresponding multi-operator core network (MOCN) of a plurality of MOCNs having an agreement to provide an instance of a core network of a home public land mobile network to which the UE is subscribed; receiving system information from the plurality of shared RANs that includes weightage values for respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs; and selecting one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs of a higher weightage value MOCN of the plurality of MOCNs based on the weightage values.

12. The method of claim 11 further comprising camping on a cell of the one shared RAN of the plurality of shared RANs to register to the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

13. The method of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein determining the UE is in the coverage area of the plurality of shared RANs includes: receiving minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs that includes a set of network identifiers concerning available core networks in a respective one of the plurality of MOCNs; and determining the set of network identifiers from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in the minimum system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the minimum system information broadcast from each of the plurality of shared RANs includes the set of network identifiers and one or more parameters per network identifier, and the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs is received in the one or more parameters for the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

16. The method of any of claims 11 to 15, wherein the system information that includes the weightage values is received in on-demand system information, and for each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein receiving the system information includes: sending a system information request to each of the plurality of shared RANs; and based on the system information request, receiving the on-demand system information that includes the weightage value for the respective one of the plurality of MOCNs.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the weightage values for the respective ones of the plurality of MOCNs are particular to the home public land mobile network of the UE, and wherein the system information request sent to each of the plurality of shared RANs includes a network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE, and the on-demand system information is received based on the network identifier concerning the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network.

19. The method of any of claims 11 to 18, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs by an access and mobility function of the instance of the core network of the home public land mobile network of the UE.

20. The method of any of claims 11 to 19, wherein the weightage values are configured to respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs through operations and management of the respective ones of the plurality of shared RANs.