Optus Mobile has added the MLC Centre, one of Australia's leading shopping centres in the heart of Sydney's CBD to its list of WiFi hotspots. The new hotspot was today used to support the launch of Intel's new Centrino Mobile Technology.

Last week, Optus Mobile became the first major carrier in Australia to launch commercial WiFi or wireless broadband access services.

WiFi offers higher data speeds giving users in specific locations or hotspots the ability to download larger chunks of information faster using laptops or PDAs.

Peter Acheson, Director Business Mobile for Optus Mobile said the MLC Centre's central location and retail setting make it an ideal place for mobile professionals to feel comfortable.

"The MLC Centre is in the heart of Sydney's central business district and is just seconds away from some of the nation's major business houses.

"The MLC Centre provides an ideal location for the visiting executive to download a few emails or check a presentation between appointments without the need to find a wall to plug their computer into.

"We are delighted to be supporting the launch of Intel's new Centrino mobile technology by showcasing our latest hotspot.

"It is the combination of hotspots and an increasing range of WiFi capable devices such as Intel's new Centrino mobile technology which will make unwired living even more a reality for the mobile professional," he said.

Optus has committed to rolling-out 500 hotspots nationally in the next 12-18 months focusing on airports, lifestyle cafes, city CBD areas and hotels.

Optus already has a number of locations up and running including selected Delifrance stores and Hudsons Coffees and next month will add 20 Gloria Jean's Coffees stores in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

Optus also has an arrangement with Air Portal to target the hospitality sector with WiFi locations. Air Portal has signed the new Ramada Melbourne Hotel, as well as a pilot with Stamford Hotels and Resorts at the Stamford Grand North Ryde, with other locations close to announcement.

The new Optus WiFi service is called Optus Wireless Connect. WiFi is based on the international 802.11b standard.

Optus Wireless Connect Zones - Locations

Each hotspot will feature an 'Optus Wireless Connect' sign at the front door. Optus will continue to add more locations over time. A list of the current locations follows. Customers can get the latest location list and maps at www.optus.com.au/wirelessconnect