Special issue on evolving from 3G deployment to 4G definition

The deployment of 3G mobile systems is now getting underway, with roll-out plans being affected by a number of mutually reinforcing factors. These factors include policies affecting the business case for operators who need to erate return on their investment in infrastructure within a reasonable time span, and the general economic situation impacting the propensity of operators to take such infrastructure investment risks coupled with the propensity of end to pay for new and improved services. This is all taking place in an environment where expectations have, for many years, followed the technology curve of rapidly improving performance and capability at steadily declining cost.