India might have got 3G network a couple of days ago but 3G network is a nearly a decade old to other countries. Here are some of key facts about 3G network.

3G is the third generation of wireless mobile technology allows use of speech and data services and higher data rates, an evolution of existing 2G services provided. The 3G technologies allows additional services such as multi-media messaging, customized infoainment, videos and rich voice.
3G was first launched by Monet Mobile in 2000 but the operator shut down soon its operations.

• The first true 3G network was then by Verizon Wireless in October 2003, followed by AT & T.
• The first commercial launch of 3G in Japan was on 1st Oct 2001.
• The African city to use 3G technology was in Johannesburg in late 2004.
• Around 132 countries across the world already have been running 3G.
• India, Pakistan are among the last nations to get in into 3G.
• Africa’s poorest region in the world, 31 countries have access to 3G network includes countries like Mozambique, Rwanda, Sudan and Botswana.
• In 2001, peak speed was of 348 kbps, today network can hit peak speeds of 21Mbps.
• There are 4.7 billions mobile users worldwide of which 450 millions uses 3G network roughly making it to 10%.
• In Asia 32 countries have 3G network but still India doesn’t have it.