Multi-connection is the functionality which provides capability to the user equipment (UE) and network to maintain more than one access network connection simultaneously. Furthermore, multiconnection controls and coordinates the media sessions and components across such access network connections.

Different types of access network connections provide users with different user experiences, such as high throughput, low delay, and high security. Multi-connection enables users to utilize any or all of the available access network connections in support of new service scenarios. It is recognized that operators and users will benefit from harmonization of multiple connections, such as efficient utilization of network resources, load balancing, reliability of connection and continuity of services.

This Recommendation describes the requirements of multi-connection and provides a high-level overview of the functionality to be addressed. The descriptions cover aspects related to service requirements, capabilities requirements, functional requirements, and other technology requirements.