GSM, or Global System for Mobile Communications, is an international standard for second-generation (2G) mobile phone networks. Introduced in the 1980s, GSM technology revolutionized mobile communications by providing a standardized system for voice and digital data transmission. Using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) to handle multiple calls simultaneously on the same radio frequency, GSM made the globalization of mobile communications possible, allowing users to make calls and send SMS messages wherever GSM coverage is available.
In everyday life, GSM has enabled the expansion of mobile telecommunications worldwide, offering users the ability to communicate efficiently and reliably. For example, a user can use a GSM phone to make voice calls, send text messages, and access data services such as email and web browsing. Thanks to its international interoperability, GSM phones can be used with a variety of operators in different countries, facilitating communication for both individual users and businesses.
In Switzerland, GSM was adopted over the years by various mobile subscription providers, contributing to the creation of one of the most advanced and reliable mobile networks in Europe. GSM network coverage in Switzerland extended across both urban and rural areas, allowing users to enjoy stable and high-quality mobile communications throughout the country. Major providers like Swisscom and Salt, followed by Sunrise, have phased out 2G networks, including GSM, in accordance with international agreements.
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