From GSM to 5G – technical developments in mobile communications open up new usage dimensions.
The GSM standard: Global System for Mobile Communications
GSM is the world's most common mobile communications standard. It is the basis for virtually full coverage by Deutsche Telekom's mobile communications network.
GPRS: General Packet Radio Service
GPRS is the first step toward transmission of large volumes of data via mobile lines. An extension of the GSM standard, GPRS technology is used in the GSM network to divide data into individual packets and to transmit them in this format. The total packet is not re-assembled until it reaches the recipient - hence the name "packet-oriented mobile data service."
EDGE: Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution
The next step toward raising the speed at which data can be transmitted in GSM networks is known as EDGE. Here, transmission capacity is increased thanks to a technical improvement.
The UMTS standard: Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
Whereas the principle advantage of GSM technology lies in its broad coverage, the newer UMTS technology offers specific advantages, above all in big cities where many people need to use the service at a given time. The higher capacities that UMTS provides make it possible for more users to place phone calls and transmit data simultaneously. UMTS makes it possible to send and receive voice, texts, data, music and videos at high speeds.
LTE: Long Term Evolution
LTE is the fourth generation of mobile communications technology. With transmission rates of up to 100 megabit/s and far greater capacities than earlier networks, LTE meets the growing requirements of the gigabit society: More and more cell phone users want to be able to use the Internet and all it offers when they are away from home in addition to making phone calls.
5G - a communications standard, not a wireless standard
5G is the new generation of wireless communications. It lays the foundation for new customer experiences such as augmented reality games, the networking of machines in industry, and smart devices. This technology will also provide the basis for digitization in many areas of our lives. The 5G network in Germany has been available to customers since September 2019.