fixed-mobile convergence (FMC)

Fixed-mobile convergence (FMC) is the trend towards seamless connectivity between fixed and wireless telecommunications networks. The term also describes any physical network that allows cellular telephone sets to function smoothly with the fixed network infrastructure.

The ultimate goal of FMC is to optimize transmission of all data, voice and video communications to and among end users, no matter what their locations or devices. In the more immediate future, FMC means that a single device can connect through and be switched between wired and wireless networks.

FMC is sometimes seen as a way to reverse the trend towards fixed-mobile substitution (FMS), the increasing tendency for consumers and businesses to substitute cellular telephones for hard-wired or cordless landline sets.