What is 4G?

4G, an acronym for fourth-generation wireless, is a technology that will transform wireless communications in a completely new way. It is also known as “beyond 3G," since it provides a comprehensive and secure IP (Internet Protocol) solution. Users will enjoy high quality streaming video and "anytime, anywhere" voice and data at a much higher speed than previous generations.

The “anytime, anywhere” solution of 4G technology is also referred to as “MAGIC,” which is an abbreviation for mobile multimedia; anytime/anywhere; global mobility support; integrated wireless solution; and customized personal services. The fourth-generation wireless technology will provide a wide variety of new services including HD video (high definition video), and high quality voice and high-data-rate wireless channels. 4G technology will not only be used for cellular telephone systems, but will also include several types of wireless broadband access communication systems.

With a higher data rate and broader bandwidth capability, 4G technology will focus on providing seamless service across a multitude of wireless networks and systems. The core technologies employed by fourth-generation wireless may include OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing), SDR (Software-Defined Radio) receivers, OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) UTMS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), and MIMO (multiple input/multiple output technologies). All these technologies will ensure high rates of data transmissions. 

The 4G working group has defined several objectives of the fourth-generation wireless communication standard. This includes: a high data rate of 100 Mbps between any two points in the world, seamless connectivity allowing users to enjoy global roaming across multiple networks, and support for high quality multimedia.

The fourth-generation will interoperate with third generation systems as well as with broadband broadcasting systems. It also intends to integrate FWA (fixed wireless access, WLAN (wireless local area network), WLL (wireless local loop and PAN (personal area network), to provide fully IP-based wireless internet.

There are various plans of implementing fourth-generation wireless. NTT DoCoMo, a Japanese company, is set to release their first 4G network in 2010. Currently, it is analyzing 4G wireless communications at 1 GBps while stationary and 100 MBps for mobile phone users. Some analysts expect an announcement of a faster 4G network using WiMax by Sprint® Nextel, which plans to expand its markets in 2009 and cover over 80 cities by the end of 2010.

Fourth-generation technology, when fully implemented, will create new markets and opportunities for new and established telecommunication enterprises. A 4G network, combined with cell phones equipped with advanced HD capabilities or high quality digital cameras, will open the gates of video blogging on mobile phones.