On the move - portable gadgets

3G explained

 
3G is the latest generation of mobile phone technology. The first generation was the brick-like mobile, then came the smaller, digital second generation mobiles. Next was 2+, which could take pictures and receive emails. Now there's third generation, or 3G.

● 3G phones give high-speed internet access, so pretty much everything you can do online on  a PC you can expect to do on your phone. That includes video calling, messaging and email.

● 3G operates via high-powered masts to transmit a signal, and these currently cover around 90 per cent of the UK. If you live in rural areas, it's worth checking if you can access 3G before you buy.

● These handsets may be more expensive than regular phones.

● 3G may supersede regular mobiles, but this is unlikely to happen for some time.