GPRS Information

What is GPRS
GPRS, General Packet Radio Service, is a next generation improvement to existing GSM mobile phone networks. Using packet-switched technology, just like the Internet, it is an "always on" connection that is typically 2 to 3 times faster than normal GSM data rates.
GPRS was first launched commercially in the UK by O2 on 18th May 2001.

Advantages of GPRS
A GPRS mobile phone is effectively online continuously, and ready for instant use. You are only charged for GPRS Mobile Internet use when information is actually sent or received. Unlike conventional WAP Mobile Internet you are not charged per second online but only per kilobyte of data transferred.
The packet-switched technology of GPRS means that data connections are more reliable and of a higher speed than conventional GSM mobile data. Typically data is transmitted 2 to 3 times faster than normal.

Because the GPRS network works in parallel to the GSM network, you can accept a voice call without interrupting a GPRS Mobile Internet session. With standard GSM, callers would be unable to reach you while you were using your mobile for data transfer.

Benefits now
GPRS offers faster access to the Mobile Internet, almost wherever you are in the UK with its 99% coverage of UK population.
You are always connected to the Mobile Internet so only pay for information sent and received.

An above average user of the Mobile Internet will actually save money by using GPRS while at the same time enjoying a faster, more reliable Mobile Internet connection.

The Future
Currently GPRS is in its infancy and WAP over GPRS is supported by both the Motorola T260 triple band phone and the Trium Mondo Personal Digital Organiser.
Later this year, Mobile Data over GPRS will also be available offering 2 to 3 times faster speeds for traditional web pages, not just Mobile Internet WAP pages.

GPRS Devices