When we are talking about 3G we are referring to the third generation of wireless technologies - third generations of mobile telecommunications. Before 3G we had 2,5G and 2G technologies. But, what is 3G and what is it allowing us to do easier and better comparing with 2G? Well, it is quite simple: 3G have global roaming, advanced high speed transmition, endless multimedia access, improved video and audio streaming, video-conference support, IPTV. The transfer rate is between 128 and 144 kilobits per second (Kbps).
First time 3G was used in Japan in 2001. It was launched by NTT DoCoMo branded as FOMA. At the beginning, from May 2001 it has started as a test technology. The same company started commercial use of 3G in October of the same year. But it took some time for 3G to reach its global use. Biggest problem with implementing 3G technology was that some operators had to change complete network because it was not compatible with new technology. 3G technology is operating on a different radio frequency than 2G; therefore operators had to ask for new licences for new frequencies. It required a lot of investment. That is why 3G technology started it`s wider use later in 2007. By the June of 2007 there were 200 million of 3G users. Knowing that at the same time there were 3 billion users of mobile phones worldwide, the 6, 7% is not big percentage of 3G users.
Now, with some basic knowledge about what is 3G, there are just few more things that you should know about what is required to use 3G. You need a device to be able to use 3G – mobile phone that is compatible for 3G. So, when you see mobile phones that are advertised as 3G it is just to know that they are 3G compatible it is not a number of the phone or number of the cameras or cards that you can use with it. It is common for 3G phones to have 2 cameras – it is needed to make a video call. 3G is not a Wi-Fi, so you can not get it for free at some hot spots (parks, cafes, hospitals etc), you must be subscribed to the mobile operator. This service is not cheap.
Knowing what is 3G, and having in mind that this useful technology is not for free, not even cheep for users' worldwide, it is up to you to make a decision is this kind of service necessary for you to have on your mobile phone. If it is then go for it you want regret it. If it is not that necessary for your everyday life, it is important that you at least updated about the new technologies and that you know what is 3G.