How your phone connects to the world!
Imagine a city divided into small hexagons (like a honeycomb). Each hexagon has a tower in the middle!
That's why it's called "cell" phone!
Your phone connects to the closest tower. When you move, it automatically switches to a new tower - like passing a baton in a relay race!
Towers can only reach so far - typically 1-5 miles depending on the terrain.
In cities, you need towers every few blocks. In rural areas, fewer towers but they need to be taller!
📱 1G (1980s): Just voice calls, analog
📱 2G (1990s): Digital, SMS text messages
📱 3G (2000s): Basic internet
📱 4G (2010s): Fast streaming, apps
📱 5G (2020s): Super fast, IoT, self-driving cars