The difference in the Aust market is that Unwired have snapped...

The difference in the Aust market is that Unwired have snapped up a huge percentage of the Wimax spectrum (recrent jv with Austar ensured that) until 2015. The point being that anyone (inc Google, Telstra, Optus etc) within Australia will have to sub lease this spectrum from Unwired if they want to operate in this country.

Google are only talking Wifi within San Francisco but it will only be a matter of time before Wimax will become the next standard. Hence the reason Intel just invested 37M into Unwired in preparation for this event.

Unwired are not just stopping at internet access either they see the convergence on your phone & internet access as a package they can sell i.e. give Telstra a huge run for their money due to fact that you won't need a phone line just a lap top and a phone that supports their future vision - Wimax!