General Packet Radio Services (GPRS)
 
GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) also known as GSM-IP (Internet Protocol) is a technology that allows you to access internet from your GPRS compatible cellphone. It enables a host of datacom services such as wireless Internet / intranet and multimedia services. One of the main benefits of this packet-switched technology is that the user gets connected directly to Internet service provider and stays connected at high speed, always on-line, and may be charged only for the amount of data that is transported. Voice calls or SMS can be received simultaneously while a data connection is operating.

The services offered are many like read e-mails, get the latest on stocks, weather, news, etc. or even chat  while on the go. Click photographs if your handset has the camera and send them to your friends and family. You can also use your GPRS enabled mobile as a modem to access the internet from a Laptop or PDA. The requirement would be an Infrared port or any other port through which you can achieve connectivity between your handset and the other device and the specific driver needs to be installed.

To enjoy the great potential of GPRS, you must have a GPRS enabled handset and your Cellular Service Provider should be offering GPRS services, which you can check from their customer care centre.

MMS is an important application for GPRS networks. It allows you to send & receive high resolution color pictures, full stereo audio sound, drawings, animations and video streaming on mobile phones. MMS compatible handsets have an in-built or detachable digital camera and sound recording equipment. Both the sender and the receiving handset should be MMS compatible. If the recipient doesn't have MMS compatible handset then a SMS is delivered informing about the MMS that can be viewed on computer through internet.