2G

The second generation mobile network on which all calls are currently carried. See GSM.

2.5G

An alternative description of GPRS, reflecting network capability between 2G and 3G.

3G

The third generation mobile network which is expected to replace 2G in the medium term. See UMTS.

Bandwidth

The capacity or speed at which data can be transmitted over networks.

Bluetooth

A short range wireless technology connecting mobile phones, computers and PDAs to each other and to accessories.

EDGE (Enhanced Data GSM Environment)

Intended as an incremental step toward 3G services. It operates at 384Kbps and enables multimedia transmissions and broadband applications for mobile phones and computers.

GPRS

General Packet Radio Services, also known as 2.5G. A technology that improves the speed of the existing 2G network.

GSM

Global Standard for Mobile Communications, the platform for the existing 2G mobile network.

MMS

Multimedia Messaging Service. Allows a user to send a message combining text, audio and pictures.

MVNO

Mobile Virtual Network Operator. A business—such as Virgin Mobile—that purchases capacity from a licensed network operator to offer an alternative product to customers.

PDA

Personal Digital Assistant. A pocket electronic device for storing contact and diary details.

Portal

A gateway service that provides access to other mobile internet services and content.

Roaming

A facility that allows mobile usage across national borders.

SIM card

The Subscriber Identity Module, a chip that is unique in each mobile phone and connects a user to a specific network.

Smartphone

A combined mobile phone and PDA.

SMS

Short Messaging Service that allows a user to send text messages of up to 160 characters in length.

Tariff

The set of charges that apply depending on what agreement a customer has signed with a particular network.

Text message

See SMS.

Tri-band

A phone that can operate on three frequencies and can therefore be used in the US as well as Europe .

UMTS

Universal Mobile Telecommunications System or 3G. The wireless spectrum auctioned by governments across Europe to allow the development of broadband mobile networks, leading to improved mobile services.

URL

Uniform Resource Locator. The address of a website (whether on a mobile device or PC).

WAP

Wireless Application Protocol. An open, global specification that allows mobile users with enabled mobile devices to receive and interact with internet information and services.

Wi-Fi

"Wireless Fidelity," it has come to mean any type of wireless network that uses 802.11 technology.

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