They may not be as important as the North American players, but it doesn't mean they're not having an impact. And they're all getting into triple play.

IMS can be seen as a last ditch effort by the providers to prevent their becoming just a bit pipe.

When it comes to media processing, there's a need for maximum flexibility in order to address the widest possible range of customers. There is no one form factor that addresses all requirements, so vendors that are supporting all major platforms and offering both hardware and software variants are in a better position to meet all the emerging market needs in this dynamic sector.

Having a wireless play has been essential for anyone who wants to be a full-service telecom player. Sprint is not going to have any problems finding a buyer if this deals falls through.