Mobile marketing has become an increasingly popular trend. In the past, cell phones were used primarily for making calls and sending texts to friends and family. The technology in today’s society has brought on many more uses for cellular phones. Now more than ever, people are avoiding the headaches of waiting in long lines at stores during the holidays. By turning to their mobile devices, consumers have access to a wide range of retailers at their fingertips.
This past holiday season, 33 percent of people used their mobile devices to compare prices, locate stores, and even make purchases. While only 11 percent went ahead and purchased items through their phones, the majority of shoppers used the device simply to search for the best deals on desired products. While visiting stores in person, more than two-thirds of shoppers viewed the store’s sites, and almost half of them visited competitor sites via their mobile device.
According to TopRankBlog.com, mobile ecommerce is expected to increase each year by 65 percent, all the way through 2015. Mobile devices now have an unbelievable influence on our daily lifestyles. With more people becoming dependent on their cell phones, 2011 could very well become a big year for mobile marketing and commerce.
When it comes to mobile advertising, consumers are more open minded to the messages when they are associated with the Internet or a phone application. However, when brands try to invade peoples’ personal lives by sending texts or emails, consumers are more protective of their information. Because more than 50 percent of mobile phone users in the country speculate an increase in their cell phone usage throughout the next two years, smartphone customers are now demanding more out of their devices.
