NetworkWorld's Alpha Doggs reports that researchers at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have released their newly developed WiPeer software, which can be used to link computers via Wi-Fi without a router -- suggesting that the technology could eventually be used for cell phones.

"The wireless link can be used to swap photos, conduct online chats and even transfer a 700MB file in 15 minutes or less," the article states.

"We want to bring this to as many people as possible," says Technion professor Roy Friedman. "When there are two computers in the same room, it doesn't make sense that they must go out to the Internet to communicate. WiPeer's main added value is the ability to keep things local."

The press release is here ... and the software can be downloaded here.