GSM and CDMA: Key Differences and Future Outlook

Initially introduced in Finland in 1991, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) has grown to become a global standard. Over 200 countries, including major carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile, use GSM networks.

CDMA: The American Standard

Code-division multiple access (CDMA), on the other hand, has found its niche primarily within the United States. Verizon, America’s largest wireless carrier, utilizes CDMA technology. Despite this, CDMA’s global market share remains less than 20%.

GSM vs CDMA: A Fair Comparison?

Although GSM and CDMA are distinct technologies, it’s not constructive to deem one as superior. Both technologies enable similar services – the service quality being more dependent on the carrier than the underlying technology.

Technology Differences

GSM offers certain unique advantages. One such benefit is the ability to unlock phones, allowing users to effortlessly switch between carriers. Moreover, GSM phones use SIM cards, which contrasts with the carrier-locked CDMA phones that forgo SIM cards and instead link to the network via a phone number.

Differences between the two also exist in their 2G and 3G implementations. GSM enables simultaneous voice calls and data transmission, a feature lacking in CDMA. However, this discrepancy became irrelevant when carriers transitioned to 4G LTE (long-term evolution) in 2010. LTE supports simultaneous voice and data use, regardless of whether the carriers originally supported GSM or CDMA.

GSM offers advantages such as better global compatibility, allowing users to use their phones on various networks worldwide. It also supports simultaneous voice and data transmission, enabling multitasking capabilities. GSM networks tend to have better call quality and offer features like call waiting and call forwarding. Additionally, GSM technology is more flexible, allowing for easy integration of new services and technologies.

On the other hand, CDMA has advantages like increased capacity for handling more simultaneous calls, resulting in fewer dropped calls and better call quality in congested areas. CDMA networks also tend to have better security features, making it more challenging to intercept communications. In terms of battery life, CDMA devices generally have longer standby times.

The Emergence of 5G

With ongoing development in 5G technology, distinctions between GSM and CDMA will become increasingly inconsequential. Moreover, CDMA phones can operate on GSM networks. This compatibility ensures you can use your Verizon phone in GSM dominant regions like Europe, Asia, and South America.

The Sunset of 3G

By 2022, 3G networks supporting both GSM and CDMA will become obsolete. AT&T’s 3G network concluded operations in February 2022, T-Mobile’s 3G CDMA network (Sprint) in March 2022, and its entire 3G network by July 2022. Verizon plans to sunset its 3G CDMA network by December 2022.

The sunset of 3G networks brings significant implications for users still reliant on 3G devices or coverage. As major carriers phase out 3G infrastructure, users may face service disruptions, rendering their 3G devices unable to connect and access voice, messaging, and data services. This transition can also lead to reduced coverage as carriers reallocate resources to support newer technologies. To mitigate these impacts, users should consider upgrading to devices supporting 4G or 5G networks to ensure uninterrupted connectivity. Staying informed about carrier announcements and seeking guidance will help navigate a seamless transition.

Impact on Users

The impact of these technological differences on users? Very minimal, especially as the world steadily moves towards 5G and potentially 6G. The distinctions between GSM and CDMA, primarily relevant for 2G and 3G, fade away with the deployment of 4G, 4G LTE, and now 5G.

Even CDMA phones now come equipped with SIM card trays or eSIMs due to the SIM card requirement of LTE. If you have any concerns about choosing the right phone, feel free to reach out to us or contact your carrier.