3GPP Explainer

Evolution of Mobile Networks

The journey of mobile network technologies spans several decades, with each generation bringing significant improvements in speed, capacity, and capabilities. This page provides an overview of the evolution from 1G to 5G and beyond [1][2].

Evolution of Mobile Networks
From 1G to 5G: The journey of cellular technology
1G (1980s)
  • Analog voice calls
  • No data capabilities
  • Limited capacity and coverage
2G (1990s)
  • Digital voice calls
  • SMS and basic data services
  • Improved capacity and coverage
3G (2000s)
  • Enhanced data rates
  • Mobile internet access
  • Video calling capabilities
4G (2010s)
  • High-speed mobile broadband
  • IP-based voice services (VoLTE)
  • Enhanced multimedia experiences
5G (2020s)
  • Ultra-high-speed data rates
  • Massive IoT support
  • Ultra-low latency for critical applications
Beyond 5G: Future Trends
Emerging technologies and concepts for future mobile networks
  • 6G research and development
  • Terahertz (THz) communication
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning integration
  • Quantum communication and computing
  • Holographic communication and extended reality (XR)
References
Sources used in this content
  1. TS 23.501 - System Architecture for the 5G System. Accessed on 2025-01-23.
  2. TS 38.300 - NR and NG-RAN Overall Description. Accessed on 2025-01-23.
  3. TS 23.401 - General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) enhancements for Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) access. Accessed on 2025-01-23.
  4. 3GPP - About 3GPP Home. Accessed on 2025-01-23.