3G (Third Generation)

3G mobile communication standards and technologies will enable communication using voice, text, images and video. 3G is the third generation of mobile communications technology. Analog cellular was the first generation, digital PCS was the second.

Multimedia Messaging Service or MMS is one of the first aspects of 3G to become available. An evolution of SMS, MMS combines imaging with mobility using exciting new graphical content and high quality displays enabling transmission high quality picture and audio messages.

Video and audio streaming (such as video telephony), high speed download of files and fast delivery of new mobile related content will be some of the benfits of 3G networks.

3G promises increased bandwidth, up to 384 Kbps when a device is stationary or moving at pedestrian speed, 128 Kbps in a car, and 2 Mbps in fixed applications.

3G networks launched in Japan in 2001 and have already proven the possibilities, encouraging other operators to build 3G networks. Expect to see more phones like the Motorola A820 shown on the right.

The new EDGE interface has been developed specifically to meet the bandwidth needs of 3G.

EDGE is an acronym for Enhanced Data GSM Evolution. It is a faster version of GSM wireless service, up to 236.8 kbit/s. It achieves the delivery of advanced mobile services such as the downloading of video and music clips, full multimedia messaging, high-speed colour Internet access and e-mail on the move.

Also see the UMTS section.

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