On the Fixpoint Problem of QoE-based Charging

Abstract

While with traditional QoS-based charging the pricing structure mainly reflects the delivered QoS in order to regulate the demand, the role of service prices in a Quality of Experience (QoE) context is more complex. Amongst others, the charged price may in addition have a direct impact on the user's quality perception. In this paper, we analyze the structure of the resulting fixpoint problem and discuss the corresponding equilibrium. Based on recent user trials, additional insight into the characteristics of the related feedback loops is provided, before we conclude with outlining some consequences for future QoE-based charging mechanisms.

A QoE-Aware Joint Resource Allocation and Dynamic Pricing Algorithm for Heterogeneous Networks

“…Regarding the price-based component, it captures how the perception of the quality improves (worsens) as the price falls (rises). As in [5],…”

“…The QoS-based component, Q kd j (t) ∈ [1,5] (in the MOS scale), shows the effect of QoS level on QoE. In the literature, the connection between QoE and QoS is usually modelled according to the IQX hypothesis [4], which defines it as an exponential relationship.…”

“…This means that small degradations in the received QoS can impact significantly the perception of QoE. Yet, QoE is influenced by other factors such as pricing or device characteristics [5]. In this context, it is necessary to design network and economic functionalities adapted to the new requirements, such as QoE-aware Radio Resource Management and Dynamic Pricing (DP) strategies, and always trying to maximize the profit (to compensate the diminished MNOs' revenues and the increasing deployment investment).…”

State-of-the-Practice in Evaluation of Quality of Experience in Real-Life Environments

“…-New capacity allocation techniques and admission control mechanisms should be developed in mobile networks where the performances are under high impact of radio conditions experienced by the users (see the work of Larté in [28] and [29]). -Revision of pricing policies is needed as indicated in [30]. -New objective and subjective methods for evaluation of QoE should be defined in order to take into account the factors influencing the user QoE.…”

A quality of experience-aware association algorithm for 5G heterogeneous networks

“…This means that small degradations in the received QoS can impact significantly the perception of QoE. Yet, QoE is influenced by other factors such as pricing or device characteristics [5]. In this context, it is necessary to design network functionalities adapted to the new requirements, such as QoE-aware Radio Resources Management strategies or new cell association algorithms, and always trying to maximize the profit (to compensate the diminished MNOs' revenues and the increasing deployment investment).…”