CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) is a digital cellular technology that enables multiple users to share the same frequency band simultaneously. While CDMA was once a prevalent technology, its usage has significantly declined in recent years. The main reason for this decline is the widespread adoption of GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and its evolution into more advanced technologies like 3G, 4G LTE, and now 5G.
In the earlier days of mobile communication, CDMA and GSM were the two major competing standards. CDMA was widely used in the United States, particularly by carriers like Verizon and Sprint. However, as the demand for international roaming and the globalization of mobile networks increased, GSM gained popularity due to its broader global acceptance.
Over time, GSM technology evolved and became the dominant standard for mobile communication worldwide. The transition to 3G and subsequent generations of mobile networks further solidified GSM’s position. The majority of carriers worldwide, including those in Europe and Asia, adopted GSM-based technologies, making CDMA less relevant on a global scale.
In recent years, 4G LTE and now 5G technologies, which are based on different principles than CDMA, have become the standard for high-speed wireless communication. These technologies offer faster data speeds, lower latency, and better support for modern mobile applications.
While CDMA is still in use in some specific regions and by certain carriers, its overall usage has diminished considerably. Most new devices and networks are designed to support GSM-based technologies or their successors, making CDMA a less common choice for modern mobile communication. As the mobile industry continues to advance, CDMA’s presence is likely to decline further.