However, compression software can turbo-charge downloads and take us into EDGE territory. Let's recall the hype. GPRS will deliver packet-switched data at 115 Kbps. It's an always online connection, so e-mail comes through automatically. In time for Christmas, but Santa might not be able to deliver the devices.
Exaggerated claims are an integral part of today's high-tech economy.
If all eight time slots were employed you would get 115 Kbps, but the first devices will only have one or two slots. These will be followed by products having three or four slots, which will lift performance to 56 Kbps. And remember that you're always online. Well, call me old fashioned, but a more honest approach would have been nice. At first sight this figure is somewhat disappointing, but ask yourself what apps will benefit most from a packet switched service and what kind of device you will be using.