Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution)

EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution) was introduced into the North American via GSM (Global Systems Mobile) networks in 2003 and is now available worldwide. EDGE increases data transmission rates and improves transmission reliability in mobile devices that use it. More importantly, it allows the mobile device to connect to the Internet wirelessly, but its download speed is significantly slower than other mobile wireless technologies. EDGE transmits data at approximately 236.8 kbit/s, which is below the standard for a broadband connection. However, its theoretical maximum speed is 473.6 kbit/s, so it still considered a wireless broadband technology.