EDGE or "Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution" is nothing but GPRS with enhancements to the way packets of data are decoded, and offers higher speeds of data than GPRS.
GPRS or "General Packet Radio Services" is a mode of delivering data over GSM phones that does not require a dedicated circuit to be setup between the handset and the network (like that for a voice call). In normal CSD (Circuit Switched Data) or HSCSD (High Speed Circuit Switched Data) you pretty much use your mobile phone like you would use a landline for a dialup - the line is dedicated to the data connection. In GPRS, its more like (not the technology, but the user experience) an ISDN line where voice and data use separate channels, so to speak. Which is why you can still make a call when your GPRS connection is on, while in a CSD/HSCSD mode you will have to first disconnect your data call to make a voice call. Similarly, you can receive a voice call from someone who is trying to contact you while you are surfing the web using GPRS/EDGE.
However, be aware that this is not the ultimate in mobile data. Quite a few networks the world over have moved over to UMTS, which is the 3rd generation (also called 3G) GSM technology. In 3G, we have CDMA over GSM, and that flavour of CDMA is also called WCDMA or TDCDMA (depending on the implementation and the flavour used).
For more information on EDGE, go here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enhance..._GSM_Evolution
You can also visit the GSM Association's website which would have relevant links: www.gsm.org
PS: After JK Das's post, I must inform you that EDGE must be PROVIDED by your operator and SUPPORTED by the handset you use. Currently I think Hutch and Airtel provide EDGE services in India, while almost everyone else provides GPRS.
Data Speeds are network dependent.
Last edited by Steeroid : 22nd November 2005 at 12:48.
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