Network technologies for mobile communications
From GSM to 5G – advances in mobile technology are opening up new possibilities.
The GSM standard: Global System for Mobile Communications
GSM is the world's most common mobile communications standard. It is the basis for virtually full coverage by Deutsche Telekom's mobile communications network.
GPRS– General Packet Radio Service
GPRS is the first step toward transmitting larger amounts of data over mobile networks. This technology builds on the GSM standard by dividing data into individual packets before transmitting them. The data is only reassembled once it reaches the recipient.
EDGE – Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution
EDGE represents the next stage in increasing data rates in GSM networks. This is achieved through technical improvements that increase transmission capacity.
The UMTS Standard – Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
GSM is especially effective for providing coverage across large areas. In contrast, the newer UMTS technology offered specific benefits for urban centers where many users are active at the same time. Telekom switched off its UMTS network in 2021. The frequencies that became available are now used for the much more powerful 4G and 5G technologies.
LTE – Long Term Evolution
LTE is the technology behind the fourth generation of mobile networks (4G). With transfer speeds of up to 100 megabits per second and much greater data capacity, LTE meets the demands of our gigabit society: More and more mobile phone users want not only to make calls on the go—they expect to enjoy the full possibilities of the internet wherever they are.
5G – A communications standard, not just a mobile standard
5G is the next generation of mobile technology. It paves the way for new customer experiences, such as augmented reality games, connecting machines in industry, and linking smart devices. The technology also supports the digitalization of many areas of life. The 5G network has been available to customers in Germany since September 2019.