Book excerpt: The mobile information society has revolutionised the way we work, communicate and socialise. Mobile phones, wireless free communication and associated technologies such as WANs, LANs, and PANs, cellular networks, SMS, 3G, Bluetooth, Blackberry and WiFi are seen as the driving force of the advanced society. The roots of today's explosion in wireless technology can be traced back to the deregulation of AT&T in the US and the Post Office and British Telecom in the UK, as well as Nokia's groundbreaking approach to the design and marketing of the mobile phone. Providing a succinct introduction to the field of mobile and wireless communications, this book: Begins with the basics of radio technology and offers an overview of key scientific terms and concepts for the student reader Addresses the social and economic implications of mobile and wireless technologies, such as the effects of the deregulation of telephone systems Uses a range of case studies and examples of mobile and wireless communication, legislation and practices from the UK, US, Canada, mainland Europe, the Far East and Australia Contains illustrations and tables to help explain technical concepts and show the growth and change in mobile technologies Features a glossary of technical terms, annotated further reading at the end of each chapter and web links for further study and research Mobile and Wireless Communications is a key resource for students on a range of social scientific courses, including media and communications, sociology, public policy, and management studies, as well as a useful introduction to the field for researchers and general readers.