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For the past 2 years, cellular handset manufacturers and carriers have been promising about third-generation (3G) services on  mobile phones. The companies haven’t done a good job of explaining the advantages of 3G cellphones. To many customers, the promises of video features and zippy data speeds- are only now beginning to shapeup to reality. 

What exactly is 3G?

3G cellular technology will bring wireless broadband data services to your mobile phone. Speeds from 144Kbps to 2.4Mbps (close to cable-modem speed), 3G networks let you browae through Web pages, enjoy streaming music video, watch on-demand video programming, a football match (live), a tennis match (live on demand) download and play 3D games, and videoconference with your fellows and dear ones. While the interface is undoubtedly different on a cell, the experience of surfing, watching live on demand programmes, downloading, and streaming stands to be very close to that of a broadband connection on a computer.

To date, three major carriers have introduced 3G services, and a solid assortment of 3G-enabled handsets are now available. Verizon Wireless was first to market in early 2005, followed by Sprint and most recently Cingular (T-Mobile is waiting until 2007).

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