In the old days telecommunication was the privilege of governments and their armies. They could cover an awesome distance of 20 km (12 miles) per minute. Devices from the beginning of the 20th century made it possible for relatives and friends to call each other from the other side of the globe. It was a miracle that cost about a week's wages for a conversation of three minutes. The tam-tam at least was free. The invention of mobile phones has turned communication into both a curse and a blessing.