1G – 1st Generation of Mobile Phones
Thankfully the 1st Generation of mobile phones is now obsolete. Gone are the days of poor voice links, non-existent security and low capacity!

2G – 2nd Generation of Mobile Phones
2G phone networks (often referred to as GSM) are still in use worldwide. 2G offers high bit rate voice quality, differing levels of encryption and SMS text messaging but limited data communications.

2.5G
2.5G mobile phones are the stepping stone between 2G and 3G technology, offering higher capacity data transmission allowing enhanced data services e.g. GPRS. GPRS allows network providers to charge by the amount of data sent as opposed to connect time.

3G – 3rd Generation of Mobile Phones
3G phone networks were first implemented in Japan in 2001, and since then have gradually been rolled out worldwide. Third generation phones are capable of receiving data at much higher rates than older technologies. 3G supports the use of bandwidth hungry applications such as video conferencing, full high speed internet access, fast mp3 downloads, and quality streaming audio.

Airtime
The duration of a call timed from the moment that you successfully place the phone-call to the moment you terminate it.

Battery
A rechargeable device used to supply your phone with power. Nickel Metal Hydride batteries (NiMH) are lightweight yet offer high capacity and can be recharged in a relatively short space of time.

Battery Status/Battery Charge Display
Display indicating the amount of battery charge left remaining on your mobile phone.

Bluetooth
Bluetooth allows for the wireless transmission of data between devices such as mobile phones, computers, and PDA’s. The Bluetooth protocol was named after an ancient Danish king, Harald Bluetooth. Bluetooth allows you to send and share data with other devices up to about a metre away.