What is EDGE?

EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution) is a radio signalling technology for 3G mobile networks. It boosts data transfer rates and volumes on existing GSM/GPRS networks by significantly increasing data transfer speeds.

How does EDGE work?

EDGE works by improving the signalling interface used to communicate over the radio waves. Typically, EDGE brings three times the performance of GPRS, achieving an average data rate of 80 to 160 kbps per user with mobile terminals supporting 2-4 timeslots. It is great for applications that transfer large amounts of data between a mobile phone and enterprise networks - such as rich email messages that include attachments.

About EDGE

Due to its high data transfer rates, EDGE has been adopted as part of ITU's (International Telecommunication Union) family of technologies. Currently, EDGE is standardized by the same 3GPP standardization body as the 3G technology, WCDMA, harmonizing the development of both EDGE and WCDMA.

Nokia's leading EDGE

• More EDGE networks and terminals delivered than any other vendor
• First to start volume GSM/EDGE hardware production
• First to launch an EDGE terminal (Nokia 6200)
• First to deliver global EDGE end-to-end solutions
• First to launch an EDGE-WCDMA multimode terminal (Nokia 6630)
• First EDGE-WCDMA handover in a live network (TeliaSonera, Finland)
• First Dual Transfer Mode solution for GSM/EDGE networks
• Strong evolution roadmap, for example NACC/NCCR and Streaming QoS software
• Nokia is leading the industry's discussions on the evolution of EDGE. For more information Nokia EDGE Evolution White Paper (PDF file, 469 KB)

EDGE benefits

• Faster connection
• Greater data volumes achieved
• Significant increase in functionality
• Can interoperate with with GSM networks for global coverage