Just saw the news that Google has made a bid to offer free wi-fi service throughout the city of San Francisco.

As part of its 100-page bid, Google said it could install a Wi-Fi network without cost to the city. Users with Wi-Fi-enabled computers could then log on to basic service, without paying, no matter where they are within the city limits.

Since 2 of the hours I spent in airports not being able to connect to the Internet were at San Francisco International airport, maybe my wish for free (or at least inexpensive) wi-fi service has taken the first steps to becoming reality.

This development has to be sending shivers down the spines of phone and cable Internet access providers.