Instead, Optus plans to focus on interoperability between networks with its Optus Wireless Connect (OWC) service.

"OWC data cards offer seamless roaming between 3G, GSM and Wi-Fi networks [and] in time, OWC will also seamlessly roam onto the HSDPA network," the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson then took a shot at Telstra's new Next G HSDPA network.

"Optus is obviously keeping its options open in relation to the future of its 3G network, but as our whole history shows, Telstra needs more than a few extra base stations to protect itself against losing customers to our superior value proposition," the spokesperson said.