What Is Umts?

By Author: Hannah Jameson
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As one of the most practical mobile phone innovations to date, Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems (UMTS) are part of the latest generation of technology that has broadened the scope of mobile phone use. The following details include some basics about UMTS and the types of applications this technology enables.
How UMTS Works

Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems have improved the basic audio ability of cell phones, building upon earlier generations that allowed voice and data transfer. UMTS makes it possible for mobile phone users to access the Internet, download music, send instant messages, and access web-based audio and data conferences, as well as video conferences; all using a mobile phone. UMTS also allows mobile phone users to perform a number of tasks that would normally require a desktop computer, but at a lower data transfer rate.

In addition to being used on mobile phones, a UMTS modem can be used on a laptop that is pre-configured for Wi-Fi. Computer software will allow the hardware to detect the presence of a Wi-Fi network and use it, while connecting to a UMTS network when there ...
... is no Wi-Fi connection available.
Who Uses UMTS?

Countries all over the world are now taking advantage of UMTS technology. In some cases, UMTS is used to strengthen weakening fiber networks. In other places, the newer technology is enhancing the use of mobile phones for data access and transfer. Among the countries that have started using UMTS in sufficient numbers are the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Italy, and Australia. The Middle East is beginning to catch on to UMTS, as are more countries around Europe. In the United States, over fifty metropolitan areas of the country currently have access to UMTS technology, with plans to expand the coverage over the next several years.
What can UMTS Do?

UMTS can allow enhanced access to all Internet services via a mobile phone, to other hand held devices or laptop computers. UMTS will allow greater use of voice, visual, and data sharing functions; and will do so at higher transfer rates than would be possible with older mobile technologies. This makes UMTS technology ideal for such applications as audio and web conferencing, video conferencing sessions, point to point presentation sharing, remote access of desktop computers and servers, receiving and sending email, and browsing the Internet. Along with these applications, UMTS permits global roaming for audio calls. UTMS also provides a stronger audio signal than is available on traditional audio networks.