G3 Cell Phone Information
G3--often called 3G--is shorthand for "Third Generation Communications" for mobile phones via wireless communications from satellites and towers. 3G is the fastest cell phone voice and data communication speed available for phones as of April 2010, as it is the newest generation. Third generation technology and high-end smart phones have allowed for streaming media on handheld devices. Music and movies can also now be enjoyed in real-time.
Other People Are Reading
-
Benefits
-
Third-generation phones work on digital networks, according to "PC Today." 3G phones also offer the ability to stream audio and video, and surf the web at high speeds. A 3G phone user has the ability to watch movies, read news via the web or use his phone to stream music at speeds similar to those of digital subscriber line (DSL) connections.
Providers
-
Within the United States, G3 providers are plentiful. The larger cell phone service providers within the United States, such as T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and AT&T, offer G3 services in most states. According to WirelessInternet.org, there are also smaller, more localized providers with G3 capabilities dispersed throughout the United States. Canada and the United Kingdom also have 3G providers, although not as many to choose from.
-
Cost
-
The cost of G3 services may vary based on providers. Data services--used for video, audio or internet browsing--are usually sold as add-ons to the standard voice plan. According to MyRatePlan.com, Sprint and AT&T would require a data add-on for an additional $15 per month to accommodate G3 services. Verizon offers a $9.99 per month data add-on, while the proper T-Mobile G3 add-on is $10 per month.
Regulations
-
The Federal Communications Commission--or the FCC--regulates all bandwidth and radio signals, including G3 services, within the United States. The FCC dictates the minimum speeds for various locations and types of movement. As users can travel between towers at various speeds, providers need to meet stationary, high speed and pedestrian speed requirements. The FCC also regulates the multimedia and services capabilities.
Phones
-
Although providers offer simple phone capability, G3 speeds are best used with smart phones capable of high end multimedia services. To watch movies, stream music or network socially at high speeds, consumers often opt for higher-end phones. According to United Business Media's ChannelWeb, as of 2010, the most popular smart phone is the BlackBerry Curve. Research in Motion's BlackBerry Curve has various models available to various service providers and networks. The iPhone--exclusive to AT&T--is the second most popular smart Phone, according to ChannelWeb.
4G: Moving Forward
-
According to Sprint's official website, as of April 2010, Sprint is offering its customers 4G--which is up to 10x faster than 3G--capabilities in select cities. Consumers who wish to utilize the 4G Network must have a "dual-mode 3G/4G device, or single-mode 3G/4G device, along with a Mobile Broadband Connection plan or 4G Day Pass." Sprint plans to provide the 4G network to more US cities throughout 2010.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit cell phone in close up image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com
