Why would you need more G's?

[spokanemom]

I am a proud iPhone user. I love my iPhone. I know that it has 3Gs. BUT I don't actually know what a "G" is. It just piqued my interest while watching a Sprint commercial. Sprint has 4Gs. Why do they have more? What bonus does that extra G get you? Are more Gs better? Do I need another G?

Anyway, I know that there are probably really good resources out there to define all this G business, but I like you people. You all know "stuff". I know that there is someone out there with this knowledge who has been waiting for someone to ask this question so they can share their expertise! So, share away!

And thanks!

 

[k5jm]

The "G's" are for Generation.

In terms of cellular Carriers it is relation to what generation of Data Speed and modulation technology they are using.

1G was the first incarnation of Digital Cellphone
2G was the GPRS Data Network on carriers like Cingular/ATT and 1xRTT on Sprint/Verizon
2.5G is the EDGE network on ATT and EVDO on Sprint/Verizon
3G is the HSPA Network on ATT and EVDO Rev/A on Sprint/Verizon
4G is a new standard the uses the Wi-Max standard of LTE and is/will be supported by almost all carriers in the US. 4G uses different frequencies to achieve "wired" speeds over wireless.

 

[TXYankee]

The "G's" are for Generation.

In terms of cellular Carriers it is relation to what generation of Data Speed and modulation technology they are using.

1G was the first incarnation of Digital Cellphone
2G was the GPRS Data Network on carriers like Cingular/ATT and 1xRTT on Sprint/Verizon
2.5G is the EDGE network on ATT and EVDO on Sprint/Verizon
3G is the HSPA Network on ATT and EVDO Rev/A on Sprint/Verizon
4G is a new standard the uses the Wi-Max standard of LTE and is/will be supported by almost all carriers in the US. 4G uses different frequencies to achieve "wired" speeds over wireless.

Thanks Mike! I had the same question but never thought to ask!

What does Wi-Max standard of LTE mean?

You are a very smart man!

 

[spokanemom]

Thank you SO much for the G explanation! I feel so much smarter now.

 

[TangaroaTiki]

If I'm in the market for an iphone in the next 6 months or so.....should I just wait around for 5G?