What is GPRS and how can it benefit businesses?

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is a network enabler that offers high-speed, “always on” access to Internet-based content and packet-based data services on a GSM network. Prior to GPRS, telephone service providers were limited to voice transfers, point-to-point text data transfers (such as SMS), or WAP (wireless application protocol).

GPRS can benefit corporate users through its real-time, 24/7 accessibility of information. Take an insurance company with a large mobile workforce as an example. Insurance agents on the move would be able to reference policy information by dialing into an Internet-based catalog through their GPRS handsets.

The main limitation of GPRS today is the absence of roaming operators. Services are limited mainly to in-country networks.

Peter Ang is the Manager for Product Marketing, Sony Ericsson.