When it comes to high-speed mobile networks, Australia actually fares better than it does when it comes to technology – we actually have a much better infrastructure for 3G services than most developed countries.

All four of the major networks in Australia offer 3G and HSDPA to consumers. In the case of 3, they deal exclusively in 3G, and Telstra’s NextG network is widely regarded as one of the strongest and best networks in the world. On top of that, both Vodafone and Optus have ambitious plans to expand the reach of their 3G networks over the coming years.

In terms of the iPhone, it offers a spiffy tri-band HSDPA chipset that works on the 850 MHz, 1900 MHz and 2100 MHz networks. At the moment, NextG uses the 850MHz spectrum to offer mobile voice and data to 99 per cent of the Australian population, while 3, Vodafone and Optus all use the 2100 MHz spectrum for their HSPA offerings.

The problem for those thinking about getting an iPhone is that both Vodafone and Optus – the first two Australian companies to offer the iPhone 3G – are expanding their network using the less popular 900 MHz spectrum, which will not work with the iPhone. Optus have committed to expanding their network to cover 98 per cent of the population by the end of 2009, however most rural areas will be exclusively on the 900 MHz spectrum, meaning the iPhone won’t work in large areas of the Australian country.

In any case, it’s an important fact to consider for anyone considering an iPhone – especially those who live in a rural area, or need to travel to rural areas regularly. The iPhone may still work in those areas, but there will be no thrill of 3G and HDSPA speeds – rather you’ll be crawling along the 2G network with GPRS speeds.