All about 3G

3G is the ‘Third Generation’ in mobile communications and has the potential to add another dimension to modern life. With it we can experience:

• person to person video
• live streaming
• downloadable video of entertainment, news, current affairs and sport content
• video messaging
• global positioning systems

All this in ways never seen before. Not only can we now talk to each other whilst on the move, but we can also see each other while we talk. Having a 3G mobile is just like having a tiny computer in your pocket.

While 2G mobile phones allow us to talk and text each other, 3G takes mobile communication to a different level.

• Person to person video calls
  The future is here, video calling really has arrived. We can use our 3G devices to make a video call to our friends and family and see them as we talk – and let them see us as well
• Mobile blogging, chatting, dating
  Internet access no longer requires a computer or wires. 3G lets you to keep in touch and store your blogs, all from your tiny handset
• Checking email
  While possible on 2/2.5G networks, it is much faster to keep in the email loop on 3G networks, far more in keeping with today’s fast paced society

Whether you are on the move or at home, instead of carrying a personal music device, a newspaper, your computer and your DVD player, your 3G mobile can cover all your entertainment needs.

• Shop
  Using 3G "electronic wallets", we will soon be able to conduct financial transactions whilst on the move. Simply by keying in our own secure payment PIN number, we are able to place a bet, bid on an online auction, trade stocks or simply pay for our groceries or taxi fare
• News & information services
  News, entertainment and a wealth of information tailor made to meet your personal interests is available at the touch of a button
• Music downloads
  Access the latest music for downloads, stream live radio over your phone, or store your favoutite tunes – all on your 3G mobile
• Browse the internet
  Shrink the world wide web down to your phone – news and entertainment sites, chat rooms, shopping and much more – are just a button away
• Mobile TV
  With increased bandwidth, 3G networks are now delivering live streamed TV direct to your mobile
• Video downloads
  Access video clips of news and sporting events to make sure you stay informed and don’t miss that all-important goal

3G coverage is expanding fast in the UK. Whilst the strongest signals are still found in major cities, coverage is creeping steadily into rural areas.Reported 3G coverage as a percentage of the UK population as at June 2006:

• 3: 80%
• O2: 35%
• Orange: 70%
• T-Mobile: 60%
• Vodafone: 60%

In areas where high quality coverage is indicated, it’s usually possible to make and receive calls within buildings. However, this is dependent on the construction of the building. Please also note that the service areas are based on computer prediction.

3G uses radio signals to transmit and receive signals. All products using radio technology, including television and car radios, can be affected by local physical conditions, which may interfere with radio signals.

Mobile networks can be affected in tunnels, dips, cuttings and wooded areas. In some cases, use of your phone will be impaired inside buildings.

You can use your 3G mobile abroad but availability depends on several factors:

• the network infrastructure of the country you are travelling to
• your provider – which international roaming agreements do they participate in?
• your tariff – pay monthly contract or pay as you go?