As shown in the figure, the software can be downloaded from such media as a PC server, smart card or memory card, or over the air. Operators will also enjoy simplified network management.
The vision - when we get there
E-mail - 4G wireless networks are expected to sweep the cell phone users off their feet, and make all our lives less complicated. With abundant services and media-rich broadband that will be 20 times faster than DSL, 4G networks will make even the common e-mail facility more interactive than it already is.
Sending e-mail could turn into a multimedia affair in a 4G world. Mobile users will have a multimedia inbox, and receive mail attachments in the form of high-resolution images, audio and video clips. The user can reply by recording an audio message, snapping a photo or shooting a video, and sending it right back, using just the mobile.
Health monitoring
4G could result in an increase in remote health monitoring of patients, as faster, real-time communication enables better two-way transmission of vital medical data.
Personal mobility and presence
4G will offer personalised communications to the mass market regardless of location, network and terminal used. High bandwidth and global capabilities of 4G could bring some useful applications for consumers and businesses. One could be a system that gives mobile users a virtual presence for example, always-on connections that keep people involved in business activities regardless of whether they are on-site or off. Personal mobility concentrates on the movement of users instead of users terminals, and involves provision of personal communications and personalised operating environments.
Tracking
The virtual presence system would also be able to track the exact whereabouts of individuals in case they need to be contacted. This capability might be used for law enforcement (checking whether the prisoners are where they are supposed to be) and tracking of packages and cargo shipments more precisely. For example, a large company will get to know not only that a package has arrived but also exactly whose desk it is sitting on at any given time using the network.
Networking and global roaming
4G will allow any mobile device run different wireless technologies automatically, and maintain connections seamlessly, using smart software. The software will also be capable of choosing the best connection available according to the users intentions. 4G will deliver not only enhanced multimedia and smooth streaming video but also universal access and portability across all types of devices.
4G will connect the entire globe and be operable from practically anywhere on the earth. It would allow for more complex voice-over-IP services, more media-rich messaging services and more native support for local area networking (such as 802.11 technology) on handsets.
Theres time
Analysts say it will take five to ten years before anything resembling 4G gets widespread penetration and acceptance. Carriers are not inclined to invest heavily in 4G infrastructures until demand for 3G picks up.
Mainstream consumer applications making use of 4G are at least a decade away. As we drive toward 4G, expect to see an evolution from fixed broadband to mobile broadband, more intelligent digital homes, converged broadband services, and personalised, convenient and seamless secured services.
4G will bring true human-like interaction with wearable, and maybe disposable, devices. Terminals will encompass speech, hearing, sight and other human senses, as well as environmental data pertinent to the application, making the user permanently connected to both the cyber-world as well as the real world. The services will provide effortless access to other people and devices around the 4G network and us will be designed for the highest possible integrity and security.
In fact, 4G can be best described as MAGIC (a short for Mobile multimedia, Anytime anywhere. Global mobility support, Integrated wireless solution and Customised personal service). The 4G era, beginning 2012, might just be as magical as we dream it!
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