Guide to 3G

The IrishMobile.ie - Quick guide to 3G

For the past few years, network providers and handset manufacturers have talked a lot about third-generation (3G) services for mobile phones. Despite all the talk, however, the companies haven't done a particularly good job of explaining what it all means. To many customers, the real meaning of 3G has been lost among promises of video features and fast data speeds--promises that are only now beginning to live up to reality. Yet the question still remains: What exactly is 3G?

Simply put, 3G mobile technology will bring wireless broadband data services to your mobile phone. Boasting speeds from 144Kbps (roughly three times faster than a 56K dial-up modem connection) to 2.4Mbps (close to cable-modem speed), 3G networks let you speed through Web pages, enjoy streaming music video, watch on-demand video programming, download and play 3D games, and video call with your fellow friends. There's even an up-and-coming 3.5G standard called HSDPA that boosts speeds to as fast as 7.2 Mbps, (with promises of 14.4 Mbps speeds in the near future). While the interface is undoubtedly different on a mobile phone, the experience of surfing, downloading, and streaming stands to be very close to that of a broadband connection on a computer.

Sound good? Well, yes, it is!

To date, three of the four Irish Network Providers have introduced 3G services, and a fantastic range of 3G-enabled handsets are now available. Three Ireland was first to market in early 2005, followed by Vodafone and most recently 02. Meteor will start to roll out its 3G network starting in late 2008/2009. At present, you'll need to be in a 3G coverage area to really partake in 3G, but most networks plan nationwide rollout eventually. Three are currently the largest 3G Network in Ireland providing 89% of the Population with 3G & HSDPA Coverage.