MOBILE'S HISTORY

Mobile's history is divided into three generations.
First generation systems were designed for voice tranfer. AMPS, NMT, TACS, etc are included among first generation systems.
Second generation systems are digital and are capable of providing voice/data/fax tranfer as well as range of other value-added services. At present, second generation systems are still evolving with new technologies such GPRS (General Packet Radio Service). Second generation systems include GSM and PDC.
Third generation mobile communication systems have begun their operational startup in Japan and Europe in 2001-2002.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

WAP (Wireless Application Protocol)
Through a built-in "microbrowser"WAP lets information be accessed direct from a phone, in the same way that web browsers provide access to on-line services via an Internet-ready PC.
Tupically, a WAP screen will display a number of hyperlinks to various services or information portals. The Wireless Markup Language used to create WAP pages is very similar to HTML used to create WWW pages.
WAP will be the way people on the move will access information sources using a mobile phone device.

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)
GPRS utilises packet switching technology where information is transmitted in short bursts of data over an IP-based network. It provides high transmission speeds.
GPRS is ideal for WAP services. WAP over GPRS brings cost savings to both mobile operators and consumers, because GPRS radio resources are only needed while tranferring the message. For the end-user, that means you only pay for the time it takes to download.
With GPRS-enabled mobile phones, services are received faster than with traditional GSM phones.

UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System)
UMTS is one of the major new third generation mobile communications systems. It represents a unique opportunity to create a mass market for highly personalised and userfriendly mobile access to tomorrow's "Information Society".
UMTS will deliver pictures, graphics, video communications and othed wide-band information as well as voice and data, direct to people who can be on the move.
UMTS services were launched commercially in 2001.