Die Zeit offers this report on user-spread Wi-Fi hotspot builder Fon (in German): It's interesting to read about Fon from a European perspective in which there's more optimism about models that challenge incumbents. Perhaps we're too beaten down in the States? I'm quoted on page 2 talking about the hurdles of convincing telecom giants to sign onto Fon, but that secondary ISPs could use it as an effective instrument.
I've thought for years that ISPs like Speakeasy that openly promote sharing would eventually steal higher-priced, better-margin customers from ISPs like Verizon that forbid it. However, the variety of legislation, regulation, and court decisions that affect the DSL and cable markets have prevented effective wireline competition for consumers.