Multipath fading is a phenomenon that occurs in wireless communication when signals take multiple paths to reach the receiver. These paths can include reflections off buildings, trees, or other obstacles, causing the signals to arrive at slightly different times. This can lead to variations in signal strength and quality, making it challenging for devices to maintain a clear connection. The effects of multipath fading can result in signal distortion and interference, which may cause dropped calls or slow data rates. To combat this, technologies like MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) are used, allowing devices to send and receive multiple signals simultaneously, improving overall communication reliability.