The Connected User Work Area (Formerly the Broadband User Services Work Area) develops specifications, implementation guides, reference guides, and test plans for the deployment, management, and consumption of services by the end-users.
The highly valuable TR-181 Data Model will release version Device:2.19 soon, incorporating Wi-Fi Alliance Data Elements R4, a revamped Cellular data model to empower Fixed-Wireless Access CPE, and the ability to manage Thread interfaces.
The work area continued combining the Matter protocol with the User Services Platform (USP), with ‘MatterService Data Model for USP-enabled Devices’ (WT-517) set to be completed by Summer 2025.
When integrated with the USP, the Matter protocol will enable BSPs to deploy compatible devices in the smart home faster and manage them more easily. Today, Matter networks and devices – such as a TV or speaker – are controlled via fragmented applications from multiple vendors. USP will allow all supported devices to be managed, monitored, and controlled by a standards-driven application regardless of the brand in use.
In the Subscribe Networking Project Stream, the group reviewed a survey, that included 15 service providers, 14 vendors, a test lab, and consultants, to assess the necessary Wi-Fi 7 tests in TR-398. Issue 4 of this test plan is on track for release later this year.
Connected User also launched a new project, ‘RG Performance Framework’, that aims to help BSPs and its subscribers determine if a Residential Gateway can match the capabilities of their broadband service.
The group continues to pioneer the Application-enabled Smart Gateway using USP as the framework to deploy value-added applications on the CPE. Working closely with the open-source community, the Connected User Work Area plans to release USP 1.5 later this year. USP 1.5 will allow for more advanced and granular services to be deployed securely.
Discussions on security and initiatives – including power management, Wi-Fi related security, device security, and USP security – also took place during the meeting.
Take a look at the Connected User’s latest work: https://wiki.broadband-forum.org/display/BBF/Connected+User+Work+Area.