3G, more than just a mobile phone

What are 3G phones?
Third generation mobile technology or 3G technology is one more stage in the transformation of the mobile phone from a simple communication device to a multi-function device. It was launched first in Japan in 2001. This technology which uses higher band width will enable users to send and receive data at speeds from 114 to 2000 kbps (or 2 Megabits per
second bps) depending on whether the user is stationary or in motion which is way over (6 to 35 times more) the speed offered by any landline modem. Hence a 3G system can be used as a modem for laptops to get access to the internet and it can take on the role of WAN (wide area network) or LAN (local area network). The goals of this new protocol are high quality multi-media and advanced global roaming (in-house, cellular, satellite, etc).
How different were the earlier generation phones?
The first generation phones introduced in the 1980s used analog radio technology. Japan launched the first commercial mobile phone system in 1979. By early 1990s, the second generation or 2G phones replaced the first generation. The main difference was that 2G phones were digital, which meant that the voice itself during a call is encoded to digital signals whereas in 1G it is only modulated to higher frequency, typically 150MHz and up. The other major advancement was that 2G phones allowed text messaging (SMS). 2G networks were built mainly for voice data and slow transmission.
But with rising user expectations the networks soon moved on to the 2.5G phones with general packet radio service (GPRS) that enables mobile phones to access certain websites. However GPRS can only go up to 144 bits per second compared to 3Gs 2 Megabits per second speed. Coloured screens with camera featured mobile phones, gaming and
MP3 music were also introduced at the 2.5G stage.
What are the new services that 3G promises?
Two main services are M commerce (mobile commerce) and global positioning. A 3G user can access, organise and carry out financial transactions, trade stocks, manage payments etc. Global positioning enables the user to know their current location, get information about traffic conditions and get directions to reach a certain place. Live streaming of radio and television to 3G handsets is seen as the future with some companies recently announcing these services.
What is the scenario for 3G phones in India?
The government came out with its 3G policy, including spectrum usage and spectrum pricing. Though Indian operators are yet to start 3G services, they seem ready to launch as soon as the government auction the spectrum which is likely to happen by end of year . A number of handset vendors have already introduced 3Gready phones in the country.BSNL and MTNL are planning to launch 3G by starting of year 2009 as they are sure about getting spectrum in their circles of operation.
How popular are 3G phones?
3G networks worldwide had 295 million subscribers by the end of 2007, which is about 9% of the worldwide subscriber base. The 3G telecom services generated over $120 billion dollars in revenues during 2007. In many markets, the majority of new phones activated were 3G phones. Second generation phones have been almost completely phased out in Japan and South Korea. Many mobile phone users are switching to 3G phones saying it is no
more just a phone or an advanced communication system but like a mobile personal computer.
What is the next anticipated development of mobile phones?
Work has already started on the next generation 4G phones, which it is claimed will be 50 times faster than 3G phones and this enhanced capacity is expected to enable three dimensional renderings and other virtual experiences. This phone, which is expected to be out by 2010, is expected to be able to receive data at 100 Mb per second on the move
and up to 1 GB per second while static. An entire DVD could be downloaded within a minute! The technology being worked on is supposed to increase download speeds by using multiple radio frequencies to the send the same data stream.