History of Cellular Technology

This first-generation (1G) analog network may have been cutting edge at the time, but it soon became notorious for its iffy call quality. These are the analog cellphone standards that were introduced in the 1980s.

In the 1990s, 'second generation' (2G) mobile phone systems such as Globa System for Mobile (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) began to be introduced. 2G phone systems were characterized by digital circuit switched transmission and the introduction of advanced and fast phone to network signaling. These second-generation (2G) networks spread voice calls across several wireless spectrums, making for more reliable connections that are much harder--though not impossible--for hackers to intercept. More importantly, CDMA and GSM networks are also capable of sending a sliver of data along with voice signals, making possible for such features as text messaging (SMS), caller ID, and conference calling.

Not long after the introduction of 2G networks, projects began to develop third generation (3G) systems. 3G is the third generation of mobile phone standards and technology. It is based on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) family of standards under the IMT-2000. 3G networks enable network operators to offer users a wider range of more advanced services, include wide-area wireless voice telephony, video calls, and broadband wireless data, all in a mobile environment. 3G networks are wide area cellular telephone networks which evolved to incorporate high-speed internet access and video telephony.

During the development of 3g systems, 2.5G systems such as CDMA2000 1x and GPRS were developed as extensions to existing 2G networks. These provide some of the features of 3G without fulfilling the promised high data rates or full range of multimedia services. The terms "2G" and "3G" are officially defined, "2.5G" is not. It was invented for marketing purposes only.

4G is the short term for fourth-generation wireless, the stage of broadband mobile communications that will supercede the third generation (3G). While neither standards bodies nor carriers have concretely defined or agreed upon what exactly 4G will be, it is expected that end-to-end IP and high-quality streaming video will be among 4G's distinguishing features. Fourth generation networks are likely to use a combination of WiMAX and WiFi. 4G technologies are sometimes referred to by the acronym "MAGIC," which stands for Mobile multimedia, Anytime/any-where, Global mobility support, Integrated wireless and Customized personal service.

The evolution of 3G












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