What is 3G?

The term 3G refers to the third generation of mobile phone standards as set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). 3G technologies allow mobile operators to offer more options to their users, such options include mobile broadband.

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3G offers greater flexibility and services by making more efficient use of mobile bandwidth than its predecessor 2G.

The relationship between 2G and 3G is similar to that between dial-up to broadband or terrestrial TV and digital TV. In all of the latter examples, greater spectral efficiency has enabled more consumer choice and a more effective service.

3G and mobile broadband

3G enables devices such as mobile phones and mobile dongles to deliver broadband speed internet. Most new, top-of-the- range mobile phones are 3G enabled, making it easy to check emails and browse the web on the go.

While internet use via mobile phones has been slow to take off, mobile broadband via dongles, has taken off extremely fast. Mobile broadband allows customers to browse the internet, email and download files, music and video clips from their laptops and PCs wherever there's mobile coverage.

3G technology is made possible by two complementary technologies HSDPA and HSUPA (high speed download and upload packet access, respectively).

These technologies enable mobile broadband users to access download speeds of up to 7.2Mb and upload speeds of up to 1.76Mb via a mobile dongle, USB modem or MiFi.

Predecessors of 3G such as 2G and GPRS offered limited internet connectivity that was often costly and slow. Conversely, because 3G uses the airwaves more efficiently, it can offer speeds of up to 7.2Mb with prices start at just £10 a month.

Who offers 3G mobile broadband?

• Vodafone
• T Mobile
• 3
• Orange
• Virgin Media
• O2

Want to know more? Read the following pages:

• What is a mobile dongle?
• What is mobile broadband?

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