With the launch of 3G services, everybody wants to know about these services. How can they change the way that we communicate? 3G (third generation) services not only allow us to access Internet at high speed but they also enable us to enjoy multimedia services, the ability to view videos on our mobile phone.
If we compare with a dial-up Internet connection, it typically offers about 56 kbps speed. Whereas a 3G connection will offer you speed of 3.1 megabits per second (mbps) or more. 3G network – an ITU specification for third generation of mobile communications technology- was first introduced by Japan on a large commercial scale. At present, there are around 60 3G networks across 25 countries.   



3G technologies comprise of three technologies – WAP, GPRS and EDGE. WAP (Wireless Application Protocol), an open international standard, is usually used for small mobiles. After the launch of WAP, GPRS was developed offering the speed around 56-114 kbps. It allows the user to avail services like GPRS, PTT, instant messaging/chat facilities, MMS etc. However, it fails to stream live videos more efficiently. After that, EDGE, also termed as 2.75G network, comes in the field of mobile communication. It can carry a bandwidth of up to 236.8 kbps.  
With 3G Services, an individual can enjoy a lot of features such as:

• Phone calls/fax
• Send/receive large email messages
• High-speed Web
• Global roaming
• Navigation/maps
• TV streaming
• Videoconferencing
• Electronic agenda meeting reminder

Difference between 2G Vs. 3G Networks-
With HSDPA, 3G technology sends data many times faster as compared to 2G network. Therefore, if you’re planning to purchase a new mobile, you should for HSDPA compatibility as it will provide you the data speed on the move.   That means, in 3G coverage areas, you can send and receive video content along with audio, graphics and text. However, the speed of network depends upon mobile used, number of users using 3G network simultaneously, coverage and network traffic.  

Cost of 3G services-
Definitely, 3G services may have some high price tag as compared to 2G. Because these services will allow you to make video calling whereas 2G will enable you to make voice call. So cost may be high in 3G.

Some Faqs about 3G Services-

1. Do I need to Change your SIM or number for enjoying 3G Services?
No, you need not change either your sim or change your number to enjoy 3G services.
2. Which operators in which circle will provide 3G Services?
Andhra Pradesh: Bharti Airtel, Idea, Aircel
Assam: Reliance, Bharti, Aircel
Bihar & Jharkhand: Stel, Bharti, Reliance, Aircel
Delhi & NCR: Vodafone, Bharti, Reliance Communications
Gujarat: Tata Com, Vodafone, Idea
Haryana: Idea Cellular, Tata Telecommunications, Vodafone
Himachal Pradesh: Bharti, Stel, Idea cellular, Reliance
Jammu & Kashmir: Idea, Aircel, Bharti, Reliance
Karnataka: Tata Telecommunication, Aircel, Bharti Airtel
Kerala: Idea cellular, Tata Telecommunications, Aircel
Kolkata: Vodafone, Aircel, Reliance Communications
Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh: Idea Cellular, Reliance Communications, Tata Telecommunications
Maharashtra & Goa: Tata Com, Idea cellular, Vodafone
Mumbai: Reliance, Vodafone, Bharti Airtel
North East: Aircel, Bharti, Reliance
Orissa: Stel, Aircel, Reliance
Punjab: Idea Cellular, Reliance Communications, Tata Telecommunications, Aircel
Rajasthan: Reliance Communications, Bharti, Tata Telecommunications
Tamil Nadu: Bharti, Vodafone, Aircel
U.P (East): Aircel, Idea Cellular, Vodafone
U.P. (West): Bharti, Idea Cellular, Tata Telecommunications
West Bengal: Bharti, Reliance Telecom, Vodafone, Aircel

3. What are the requirements for mobile broadband?
You will be able to enjoy High speed internet and data service even while on the move. You require a 3G handset and subscription for 3G services to use mobile broadband on your handset. In case, you want to connect your laptop or PDA (personal digital assistant) to 3G network, like while moving in a vehicle, you will require to connect your 3G handset to the computer through data cable, infrared or blue tooth. You may also buy a 3G data card and use the same with your computer to access high speed 3G network.

4. How much data will I use while viewing video?
If you’re downloading a video that’s meant for a mobile screen, 1mb per minute is a good rule of thumb. Using this rule, a 4 minute video clip would use around 4MB of your daily or monthly allowance. If the video was meant for a TV or PC Screen, or it is over 5 min long, we would not recommend downloading it to your phone, as it may struggle to play it back And you may not have enough storage space on your phone. A better solution for your mobile is to stream the Video.

5. Can I get 3G broadband without plugging a USB modem or data card?
Yes, 3G broadband can be accessed through Handset supporting 3G.

6. What will happen if I am out of 3G coverage area?
You will continue to access 2G/2.5G services in areas where 3G coverage is absent. Please ensure that your network setting on handset is on dual mode.

7. What are the prerequisites for experiencing 3G?
3G can be experienced with 3G connection and 3G compatible mobile handset in 3G covered areas.

See Latest Tariff Plans:

Tata Docomo 3G          Reliance 3G            Vodafone 3G             Airtel 3G         Bsnl 3G