Mobile phone network operator Vodafone will not be rolling out Wi-Fi hotspots - but it may yet get into the high-speed wireless networking game through partnerships with third-parties.

"We have taken the decision that we won't be delivering wireless hotspots, but will support them using our billing capabilities using SMS messages that can bill to other accounts," said Rikkie Helms, head of the company's mobile office division, according to a ComputerWire report.

Helms said the company plans to focus on rolling out 3G services, due to be offered next year, rather than embarking on a Wi-Fi programme of its own.

Instead, Vodafone will work with hot-spot providers who can offer its customers Wi-Fi access billed directly to subscribers' accounts. ®