The MWF's 20 Years of Research

People around the world have adopted mobile phones like few other products in human history. When mobile phones were first introduced to the market in 1983 no one could have predicted the profound and far-reaching impacts that mobile and wireless communications would have on the world.

Yet with the technology constantly evolving at such a rapid pace, it is important to acknowledge that not everyone has been entirely happy about these developments. For example, public concern has existed about whether the radio signals from mobile phones and other wireless devices have any impact on our health. For those living near base stations, there are many who have welcomed the greater connectivity and speed that such developments allow, although there are some who have also been concerned about the constant exposure to yet another radiofrequency source in their environment.

The telecommunications industry takes these concerns seriously and while the benefits of the technology are clear, industry must ensure that any concerns are addressed through open and transparent information, as well as independent quality scientific research that paves the way for health authorities and governments around the world to provide the best available advice to the public.

The Mobile & Wireless Forum’s role in this area is to support such research and help contribute to the development of standards for the industry to use to ensure compliance of the various products and services, thus allowing people to enjoy the full benefits of the technology. As part of the 20th anniversary of the association, we have summarized our research efforts in a new booklet. In the booklet, you will find an overview of the international research agenda, the main bodies involved in reviewing the scientific evidence, key issues and terms explained and discussed as well as details on the MWF’s research programs. You’ll also get an understanding of the work currently underway on new compliance methodologies for future 5G devices and the development of new technical standards.

The booklet concludes with a summary of where we are in terms of knowledge and understanding after 20 years of research, and the lessons learned ranging from societal impact to the public understanding of scientific research.

You can download “20 Years of Research” from the MWF website.