4G mobile technology is the name for the next generation of mobile devices such as cell phones. It became available from at least one provider in the US in 2009.

The use of G, standing for generation, in mobile technology covers the major advances of the past 20-30 years. 1G technology involved the first widely available mobile phones. 2G technology, which began in the early 1990s, switched to a digital format and introduced text messaging.  3G technology improved the efficiency of how data is carried, making it possible to carry enhanced information services such as websites in their original format. The latest iPhone is the best known example of 3G and 4G technology.

4G mobile should use enhanced security measures and offer drastically faster speed.  A second goal is to reduce blips in transmission when a device moves amongst areas covered by different networks. Within the United States, there are two major systems using 4G mobile technology. One is known as WiMax and is backed by Clearwire, a firm whose majority owner is Sprint Nextel.   The competing system, Long Term Evolution or LTE, is backed mainly by Verizon. It was expected to be ready for testing in 2010 but not available for widespread use until 2012 LTE’s backers hoped to overcome this disadvantage by offering faster speeds and producing cheaper equipment.

Unlike previous generations of mobile technology, 4G mobile will be widely used for Internet access on computers as well as carrying cell phone communications. Customers in areas which have strong 4G coverage will be able to use it for a home broadband connection which doesn’t require any cabling to their household. It can also be used for accessing the Internet on the move without having to be in a wireless hot-spot such as those offered by some bakeries, coffee shops, airports and libraries.

If you would like to learn more about 4G or the wireless solutions that Harris Communications offers, CONTACT US today.