Background
1st generation: analog cellular
2nd generation: digital cellular
3rd generation: multiple, heterogeneous access technologies (WLAN, cellular, satellite)
- GSM cellular evolution: data support, higher bandwidth
- HSCSD, GPRS, W-CDMA (Ericsson and Nokia)
- Core cellular network: evolving towards a combined circuit and packet switching infrastructure
4th generation:
- Eliminate circuit switching through “next generation Internet” integration: voice (and video) over data
- New services: voice-data integration w/ multipoint capabilities, intelligent location-aware & “follow me” mobility, push-based information dissemination, ...