Abstract: This paper summarizes the activities of the international community towards a global standard for mobile communications using digital technology, often referred to as IMT-2000 or third-generation mobile system (3G). It describes the basic objectives of the system, in terms of minimum performance capabilities as specified within the International Telecommunication Union, as well as possible implementation options as discussed within various fora. Finally, it addresses some elements of forthcoming ITU-R Recommendations, which should provide the general framework for 3G networks and which should be free of intellectual property rights problems.
Key words: Mobile communications, ITU.