What is General Packet Radio Service (GPRS)?

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is a packet-switched technology that enables data communications. By using a packet switching, subscribers are always connected and always on-line, so services will be easy and quick to access.

GPRS is used for various data applications on phones, including wireless Internet (WAP), MMS, and software that connects to the Internet. Basically, any network connection that is not voice or text messaging uses a data connection like GPRS.

GPRS offers a tenfold increase in data speed over previous (circuit-switched) technologies, up to 115kbit/s (in theory). Typical real-world speeds are around 30-40 Kbps.

Newer technologies like EDGE, 3G, and 4G are much faster. GPRS is considered a "2.5G" technology, meaning it is more advanced than standard 2G digital technology, but does not meet the requirements of a full-fledged 3 or 4G technology.