In a statement released late Wednesday, Ericsson Australia has denied any association with new wireless Internet provider Hughes Corporation, stating that it is in no way affiliated with the company.
Responding to an advertisement printed in The Courier Mail, which claimed that Ericsson Australia would be installing Hughes' new AXs wireless network cards, Ericsson stated it has not made any arrangements with Hughes to install any network equipment and does not intend to.
"Ericsson Australia is not installing any systems or products, nor are there any related Internet services from Ericsson available, as advertised in the Courier Mail," the release stated.
"Ericsson Australia will take any and all necessary legal action to prevent any further infringement."
The company calling itself Hughes Corporation announced their intention to provide wireless Internet access to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne metro areas with the advertisement last weekend. The company said it would provide users with an unlimited amount of downloads for $70 a month.
Hughes Corporation claimed Ericsson Australia would be installing the service.
However, details on the exact technology used to provide the service has not been forthcoming, nor has any information on the company's backers or network partners been disclosed. The Australian Communications Authority (ACA) stated yesterday that it is currently investigating the company to determine why Hughes has not yet applied for a carrier license, required for any company wishing to provide Internet services in Australia.
In further moves discrediting the company, US networking giant Hughes Network Systems -- which the Hughes Corporation was claiming to represent -- has also denied any affiliation with the similarly named start-up. An official statement from them is expected later today.
