What is the tangible difference between 3g, HSPA+, etc.?

Tech Question: What is the hardware difference between the subsequent wireless mobile telecommunication technologies? For instance, both the 9810, and 9900 were originally released as 3g, then newer versions were released of these phones with seemingly (as I've gathered from various reviews) no change to the hardware which would explain the wireless upgrade, yet the later version of both is HSPA+, a 4g technology.

Now I have a 9810 and it is reading 3g on Tmo's network... Well, if it is not a hardware problem, then the problem must be with the software, right. And if it is a software problem, then technically it can be fixed without subtracting or adding to the motherboard. Perhaps (hopefully) the version of the Blackberry 7 os is the problem, that might make this an easy fix. Anybody have any knowledge on how to upgrade the wireless technology on the 9810 to HSPA+? Forgive any ignorance I've displayed. I am grateful for any and all input on this matter (or investigation). Thank You

I think you may need an updated sim card. I would visit your carrier. The issue could be with your settings too. Perhaps go to the 9900 resurgence thread.

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