Mobile Technology Explained

Today’s mobile phone services include phone calls (voice), text messages (SMS), and internet (data), which are delivered through an interconnected network of mobile telephone masts. This technology has greatly evolved over the past three decades.  

How has mobile phone technology developed? 

The first national mobile service in Ireland was 1G, launched back in 1985 Mobile technology has evolved since, seeing 2G first launched in 1993, 3G in the early 2000s, 4G in the early 2010s, and, most recently, with the rollout of 5G in the 2020s. 

Each generation brings with it upgraded speeds and capabilities that allow us to do more with our mobile devices. 

What does the G in mobile technology stand for? 

The ‘G’ stands for the ‘Generation’ of mobile phone technology, for example, 3G is the Third Generation. Each evolution has been capable of faster mobile internet (data) services, which has enabled year-on-year growth in data consumption, the mobile service most used by Irish consumers. 

What is 5G?

5G is the 5th generation of mobile networks and the latest development. 5G technology is faster, has fewer delays, and more data can be sent and received at one time compared with previous generations. As a result, 5G-focused developments in connected vehicle technology, immersive gaming, and smart home devices are on the horizon.  

5G will operate alongside other technologies enabling faster data speeds and enhanced connectivity between wireless devices.  

Can I get 5G? 

More and more mobile providers are offering a 5G service and expanding their 5G coverage throughout Ireland. If you want to see how coverage currently looks and where 5G coverage is available, then we have a free mobile coverage map. 

Please be aware that while 5G is becoming more and more prevalent, not every package provides 5G and some devices may not be compatible. If you want to find a plan that best meets your needs, we have a free comparison tool to help you choose.  

We have more information about 5G and the evolution of mobile technology here. 

Call, text, and data allowance  

Many mobile phone plans (be they bill pay or prepay) offer unlimited data, calls, and or texts. Plans may include a cap on how much data you can use, minutes of calls you can make, or the number of texts you can send within a specified period (usually a month).  

This means that if you exceed any of these caps you may need to pay additional charges. Information regarding these caps and the price for going over your cap will be included in the terms and conditions of your contract. See the contract section of the website for more information.

How much mobile data am I using? 

Here are some common uses of your mobile phone and an approximate estimate of how much data they might typically use: 

*1 kilobyte (KB) is 1,000 bytes, 1 megabyte (MB) is 1,000 kilobytes, 1 gigabyte (GB) is equal to 1,000 megabytes. 

Using mobile data while in another country may cost you extra – the cost depends on if you are in the EU and how much data you use. We have more information on data usage and your rights when roaming in the EU or outside of the EU. 

Non-Ionising Radiation Information 

For more information on Non-Ionising Radiation Information, please visit our webpage which include radio waves emitted from mobile networks, infrared radiation and visible light.