3G

3G is short for third-generation mobile telephone technology. 1G (first generation) mobile phones were the original analogue phone launched back in the early '90s; 2G are the GSM digital handsets that we're used to today; and 2.5G includes handsets with GPRS data capabilities.

3G technology offers enhanced features for mobile users, such as:

Video Calls

Send and receive video calls to and from other 3G users. See who you're chatting to in real time.

Download Video

Download video clips to your handset, such as weather forecasts, music videos, comedy, news headlines, sports highlights or film trailers.

Pictures

Send digital pictures to other 3G users, or users with 2.5G phones that use MMS. 3G data speeds are considerably faster than a standard 2.5G MMS phone

Games

Download games up to 30 times faster than standard GSM phones. You can also play online games such as No Refuge, Lock 'n Load and Cannons Tournament.

Location-based Services

3G technology allows you instant access to:

• directions,
• maps,
• information on finding services such as the nearest cash machine, pub or restaurant,
• latest traffic information.

3G was launched in the UK in March 2003 by the network operator 3 (Hutchison Telecom). Orange and Vodafone launched their 3G service in 2004 and O2 followed soon after in February 2005. T-Mobile does not offer a full 3G service at the moment, but is planning to go live by the end of 2005.