Understanding mobile connectivity

Types of mobile services and products 

1G – 1G is short for ‘first generation’ and is the first wireless mobile technology that used analogue signals to make calls. 1G networks are no longer in operation. 

2G – 2G is the second generation of mobile technology and supports digital standards. 2G networks support voice calls, text messaging and very low speed data connections. All mobile handsets can connect to a 2G network. However, all 2G networks will be retired by 2033. 

3G – 3G networks are the third generation of mobile technology and can support voice calls, text messages and mobile broadband. Most mobile devices support 3G however some older or very basic phones do not. Most 3G networks have now been retired as part of the nation-wide switch off.  

4G – 4G is fourth generation technology which succeeds 3G, and is currently the standard mobile technology. 4G is capable of super-fast mobile internet speeds of up to 300Mbps. Some users may need to upgrade their handset to access 4G.  

5G – 5G is the fifth generation of wireless mobile technology and offers very high upload and download speeds, hundreds of times faster than 4G. Many flagship mobile phones are 5G-compatible. 

Air time – Air time refers to the monthly allowance of talk minutes you’re entitled to with your mobile phone contract. 

SIM-only – A SIM-only deal or SIM only contract solely includes a SIM card and an amount of monthly usage. Unlike conventional contracts, SIM-only deals don’t include a phone. They’re especially popular with cost-conscious consumers and customers who have come to the end of their standard contract and feel they don’t want or need to upgrade to a newer phone. 

SIM-free – SIM-free means you buy the phone of your choice without a SIM card in the package, so you will be free from any contract or commitment to a specific network. SIM-free phones come completely unlocked, letting you decide what SIM card to use in them.