Mobile mania
The brave new world of user interactivity
Mobile phones are one of the most effective ways to connect with customers on a personal level. After all, nearly 80% of Australia’s population has a mobile phone*, with the majority keeping their phone within arms reach at all times. So what’s happening out there in the world of mobile communications?
One exciting development is that, of the growth of mobile internet; those mini websites you can access via your mobile phone. Many companies are realising the potential of this growing medium, developing mobile websites of their own.
Carsguide has recently done just this, creating their own mobile internet site (carsguide.mobi) to allow users to search and enquire about cars they might be interested in buying via their mobile phone. Moshtix is also another mobile service allowing you to book concert tickets using your mobile phone, anywhere, anytime.
Utilising SMS communications is also another channel with huge amounts of potential. You can communicate directly with your customer base with vouchers, special offers, sales or discounts, and even reminders and alerts. Has anyone else received an SMS reminder from Video Ezy telling you your DVD’s overdue?
Utilising Bluetooth as a communication tool is just a further unique alternative, allowing you to send a message to anyone in a certain vicinity with their Bluetooth switched on. This technology is excellent for events with mass audiences. The problem being, of course, is encouraging people to switch the Bluetooth on.
With the recent release of the Apple iphone (although with some negative feedback thus far), mobile phones are beginning to take on a life of their own. New technology is seeping out of the cracks faster than you can say ‘world wide web’, and even that’s becoming outdated with the emergence of web 2.0 .
If you’re interested in looking at some unique media tools for your next campaign, or even to find out a bit more information about the scary world of new technology; we are happy to discuss with you at any time.
*Source: Australian Communications and Media Authority, as at June 2006.