Earlier this month, the Search Giant Google, started a limited test of the free wireless Internet service, called Google WiFi in San Francisco. Google said it has responded to a request for information by the City of San Francisco to test local Internet services via Wi-Fi, the short-range wireless technology built into most new laptop computers.

The service aims to test a range of new services and applications around the the City of San Francisco, which is home to more than 700,000 residents.

Offering free wireless communications could push Google into competition with local suppliers of broadband Internet access, including telephone network SBC Communications and local cable operator Comcast.

"This proposal is limited to San Francisco and we don't have any plans to expand this community service beyond the (San Francisco) Bay Area," the Google statement said.