Cell Phones aren't Just Great for You!

Hello all!

This blog will cover the topic of cell phone content advertising and its impact on the mobile phone and tablet user. What is cell phone content advertising? If you own a smartphone or tablet computer, you've surely been exposed to it whether or not you realize it. It is the inclusion of advertising incorporated into mobile applications. Much like cable television, almost nowhere on a mobile device can you find a void of advertising. In fact, many of your cell phone's features that you haven't even considered to be a canvas for ads will soon be.

Mobile software developers have two choices on how to gain revenue for their applications and programs. One is to charge a subscription or one-time fee to download the app or use the service. Second, and this is becoming increasingly popular, is to create ad-supported software. This means that while the program is free to download, the user agrees to advertising exposure that is incorporated into the software. This usually comes in the form of banner ads or popups during the use of the app but can be any other form of advertising that marketers find a way to incorporate into the software. 

Mobile advertising is a fairly new marketing genre, and marketers are quickly devising new ways to turn the advancements in technology into great new ways to spread a message. Some developers have teamed with advertisers and offer discounted subscriptions fees or hardware cost to those that are willing to use their device as a billboard. One of the most obvious examples of this is the newer model Amazon Kindle. The Kindle has two prices for each of its models. For instance, the base model Kindle is priced at $109. However, buyers can purchase the same device for $79 if they agree to "special offers", which basically means that when the Kindle is turned off it will permanently display an ad on the screen until turned back on. Not surprisingly, the ad-supported Kindle far outsells the ad-free option.

As illustrated by sales of the Kindle, people just can't resist a good deal whether or not it involves being force fed advertising. In fact, the average consumer probably prefers to be exposed to advertising in exchange for lower prices. Maybe it's because we're just so used to it after years of TV commercials and internet popup ads. Regardless, it will be interesting to see where this new marketing platform goes from here. What do you think? Please feel free to comment!

Drew