Advances in Communication Technology

As the world continues to move, so does the advancement of technology. Every year sheds light on improvements to yesterday's devices and new inventions appearing on the horizon. At the center of it all is a desire to speed up communication across the globe, with the intention of making inconveniences a thing of the past.

History

Earliest forms of communication include pictograms, signals and, of course, language. Over time, communication has always advanced in order to be more efficient, from homing pigeons to the computer. The 19th century saw the development of the telegraph, telephone and radio. The 20th century birthed the use of the television and computer to spread communication.

Internet

The Internet, which encompasses the World Wide Web (WWW) or simply the Web, links everyone together with a universe of information available for all to access and learn from, and seemingly unlimited resources for contacting those on your personal and business Rolodexes. Most every business now has a website available for consumers to access information, contact the business and even make purchases, all from the comfort of home. In fact, the Internet has become such a pillar of communication today that it appears it will remain the nucleus of all current and future developments within the industry.

Wireless

Wireless communication, also known as WiFi (wireless fidelity), uses low-power radio waves to transmit data over distances from one device to another without the use of wires, allowing senders and recievers to access information while on the move. Especially for business, WiFi is invaluable as it allows the boss, who travels frequently, to stay in touch with his employees back at the office. Wireless communication also makes it possible for more individuals to work from home, a luxury that was rarely a possibility just 30 years ago.

E-mail

Electronic mail, commonly called email, is a means of sending messages to someone over the Internet through a service provider or email hosting website. Email now virtually replaces hand-written correspondence sent through the postal system. Senders can not only send a direct message but also attach images and documents to the email, giving recipients immediate access to information that might otherwise take days to receive and even longer to edit or update as necessary.

Smartphones

Smartphones are exactly that--mobile phones that know how to do an amazing variety of tasks. These cellular phones have a multitude of features that not only allow you to communicate while on the go in a number of different ways, but give you Internet access, keep track of appointments, and allow you to add features and applications for every need you can think of. Text messaging through mobile phones is increasingly becoming the way to communicate quick thoughts to friends, family and clients, whether it's to promise a call later or simply to pass on a thought before it's forgotten.

Skype

Skype is a downloadable software that enables users to make free phone calls and send messages via the Internet. The service also offers video phone calling, allowing users to watch each other in real time while they speak. Both businesses and individuals have benefited from the convenience and immediacy of Skype's communication tools.