Mobile – New trends online & how to use the web more effectively

12/02/2009 - Manchester

Recent developments in mobile phone handsets have seen the mobile web become a viable and interesting proposition for the first time. The iPhone has changed the way that people regard viewing the web on a mobile device. Already we have seen a number of other smart phones reach the market, all based around giving superior web/or email capabilities. The upshot of this is that genuine mobile websites, particularly those with geographical capabilities are now a genuine possibility.

The great power of mobile devices is the fact that they are geo-graphically aware – they know where they are. Google Maps and Nokia Maps are applications that allow you to view maps and locations in real time from your mobile phone. This opens up many possibilities in terms of location-specific information. Alongside the growing use of the mobile web, SMS still remains a powerful way to communicate and connect with mobile users. Mobile web services can be supported with equivalent services over SMS, for example, text based directions to nearby services. SMS also remains a highly effective way to communicate to users and develop brand loyalty. Expedia provides a text service for users who have booked a holiday with them. The day before they leave, the user receives a text message detailing the local weather conditions and wishing them a safe journey. Small, added-value pieces of functionality such as this can go a long way towards building brand loyalty.