2G, or second-generation cellular network, is a group of technology standards employed for cellular networks. It was commercially launched on the GSM standard in Finland by Radiolinja (now part of Elisa Oyj) in 1991. Here are some key features of 2G:
Advantages of 2G over 1G:
- Voice signals can be digitized and compressed, making them more efficient on frequency spectrum than 1G.
- Data and voice signals are digitally encrypted, providing better security against eavesdropping and fraud.
- Digital signals consume less battery power, making mobile sets more energy-efficient than their 1G counterparts.
Other features of 2G:
- 2G introduced mobile data services, beginning with SMS text messaging.
- 2.5G (“second and a half generation”) is used to describe 2G-systems that have implemented a packet-switched domain in addition to the circuit-switched domain.
- 2.75G (EDGE) is an enhancement to 2G that provides faster data transfer rates.
- 2G has been superseded by newer technologies such as 3G, 4G, and 5G.
While 2G has been largely replaced by newer technologies, it is still available in most parts of Europe, Africa, Central America, and South America as of 2023.
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