Think people are missing the questions but I'll give it a stab.
Clearwire is 4G implemented using a WIMAX network
Other 4G implementations are LTE which some carriers like Verizon are already building out.
4G is a standard that guarantees certain performance and service level.
Customers don't really care about the various implementations.
The main difference in implementations is the bandwidth (the chunk of frequencies used) to give you the required speed.
This is just some background info.
Now to your question:
Traditionally carriers are closed to outside vendors like Cisco, Google, Intel etc in their core network. Their m.o. was to control what the users could d and control 3rd parties from cannabilizing theri incremental profits.
However Clearwire (the group) has a clear intent, a clear means of breaking that dominance.
Intel can now compete with traditional handset vendors such as Ericsson, Nokia etc
Google can claim the mobile search market
Brighthouse & Comcast can use bundling to enhance their protfolio. Comcast just bought NBC so now they will be getting into content also (big play by them)
Sprint can now slow cash burn by having a partnership in the network buildout.
Cisco bought Starent Networks because carriers were ordering their network equipment. Now Cisco has a firm foot further in the Core Network.
To me this group is determined to break the monopoly the traditional carriers had and I believe they will be successful.
Also note that Google is providing Android as an open source mobile OS so that they can target phones without the carriers interference and at the same time control the mobile search market.
An interesting book that will explain what is happening is The Innovator's Dilemma.
I recommend this book to all my friends no matter the industry they work in.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0060521996/?tag=vp314-20
Hope this helps.........