Recently in mobile marketing Category

MobileVerbs has launched mobile marketing program Jack-in-the-Box restaurants. The restaurant guests can provide their feedback and redeem coupons via their cell phones.

Jack's guests follow 'call to action' instructions on table tents and send a SMS message to the MobileVerbs service. The mobile service delivers a series of survey questions to guests' cell phones. Once the guests complete the survey in couple of minutes, they are provided with a secure mobile coupon on their cell phones.

The guests can redeem mobile coupons instantly at participating restaurant locations by showing a secure redemption code on their cell phones to the restaurant staff.

The system automatically detects the device type to send simple text coupons on feature phones and rich barcode coupons on PDAs with mobile browser. The management has full control over the number of coupons delivered per guest, expiration of coupons and overall coupon quota in a campaign.

Tomorrow is Mobile Tuesday, that's the day after Black Monday.  Mobigosee, a mobile-marketing firm, will launch  Mobile Tuesday on Dec. 2, even after loosing advertisers. Research found that Tuesday is a slow shopping day.

This debut year has McDonald's, Finish Line and RedTag participating. Mobigosee as of Monday had 18,000 people signed up for Mobile Tuesday updates, most through sites that leak Black Friday deals, notes Advertising Age.

It gets confusing because when we searched for a link we found a website in another country with the name "Mobile Tuesday." 

Their PR guy contacted and said that they are working on the website for the promotion that is not final yet.

Alltel Perks is a free content service for Alltel customers that is ad-supported. The downloaded app at the Alltel Shop, Alltel Perks delivers content to the phone’s idle screen when the handset is not in use. Customized content includes sports scores, weather, discounts and trivia.

Users will receive content including discount offers from local merchants, coupons for favorite restaurants. Delivered messages are maintained in the “Recent Offer Menu” folder for a short period of time, so customers can easily take advantage of current offers and discounts.

The service delivers offers and content to subscribers when their phone is not in use. As offers download to the handset, users can open the banner to display more content by selecting the “View” hot button as indicated on the phone. If any other button is selected the offer will go away, as to not be intrusive. While airtime charges may apply to the service, the initial download of the Alltel Perks application from the Alltel Shop is free for Alltel customers.

Just before Barack Obama made his acceptance speech last night, his followers recieved the following email message (without the fire works graphics):

Subject:  How this Happened

Friend:

I'm about to head to Grant Park to talk to everyone gathered there, but I wanted to write to you first.

We just made history.

And I don't want you to forget how we did it.

You made history every single day during this campaign -- every day you knocked on doors, made a donation, or talked to your family, friends, and neighbors about why you believe it's time for change.

I want to thank all of you who gave your time, talent, and passion to this campaign. We have a lot of work to do to get our country back on track, and I'll be in touch soon about what comes next.

But I want to be very clear about one thing...

All of this happened because of you.

Thank you,

Barack 

COMMENT FROM WIRELESS AND MOBILE NEWS:

Texters will note that the message was too long to be sent as a text message which is limited to 140 characters, this message is 674 characters with spaces.  To text this message it would be:

B4 I go2 Gran Pk, txt U. U made history every day U wkd 4 change. Don't 4get how we did it. Thnx 2 U all 4 time. More work 2 do. Txt U l8ter.

Unfortunately, Obama's eloquence doesn't work in text as well as it does in email or in speeches.

The Mobile Marketing Association announced the release of an updated version of its global Mobile Advertising Guidelines, that includes:

• Updated mobile web guidelines with added recommendation on automatic resizing of mobile web banner ads
• Updated Multimedia Messaging (MMS)
• Updated the Audio Formats best practices
• Revised the Size recommendations
• New Mobile Video and TV guidelines including ad units and aspect ratios.
  

ROK Entertainment Group, mobile technology and entertainment company, has signed a partnership with Mixcast Network, to roll out a national Bluetooth mobile advertising platform to solidify their presence in the exploding US entertainment technology market.

During Super Bowl weekend, Mixcast will launch a vigorous mobile media blitz, targeting fans during Super Bowl XLIII in Ybor City, Florida. Mixcast will create hot zones of digital information and entertainment in thousands of retail locations to transmit content secured by Mixcast through its wide network and integrated within a vast array of advertising and marketing displays. These hot spots will allow consumers with cell phones to opt-in to receive location-based information and exclusive entertainment via Bluetooth.

Cellfire announced that GameStop is using its service to distribute mobile coupons redeemable at more than 4,200 GameStop retail store. Now, instead of clipping paper coupons or printing them from the Internet, gamers can simply show the coupon displayed on their cell phone at the register to receive a discount.

Sony Ericsson's C902 Titanium Silver Cyber-shot phone will be used by James Bond in "Quantum of Solace" movie.

At www.sonyericsson.com/bond, there are downloadable games and a secret agent solving contest.

"Play the game and solve Directive C902 for your chance to win an all expenses paid trip to Monte Carlo, and experience the stylish lifestyle of Bond firsthand. Put your secret agent skills to the test and you'll also unlock exclusive gadgets to turn your mobile phone into the ultimate secret agent accessory."

Mobile marketing company Air2Web now offers Contact Capture, the most recent addition to its Mobile Marketing Solution Series (MMSS). Air2Web's Contact Capture enables for calls-to-actions.

Contact Capture allows customers to include a mobile marketing call-to-action in its communications which directs customers to respond to the message by texting in a keyword to a shared short code. Advertiser can choose what response method is best for each campaign including: response with email via SMS, response with convenient times to schedule a call-back or enable full contact information (address, etc.) from a WAP form.

FunMobility announced a brand building partnership with Vans. The partnership will
help build brand affinity with Vans customers. FunMobility, in concert with Access360Media, will provide a mobile destination that allows users to receive daily text messages and free wallpapers produced by Vans.

The Mobile Marketing Association (MMA) would like industry feedback regarding the Mobile Advertising Guidelines. The MMA's global guidelines are designed to encourage the uptake of mobile advertising by brands worldwide whilst enhancing and protecting the customer's experience by creating a framework for brands and media companies to deliver mobile advertising in a positive and consistent way.

The opportunity for public comment will remain available until 5pm GMT on September 5, 2008, at which point the feedback will be reviewed and the document finalized, with the release of the updated guidelines planned for early October 2008. The current version of the guidelines can be downloaded from http://mmaglobal.com/modules/content/index.php?id=528 and comments can be entered on the Public Forum site http://mmaglobal.com/modules/newbb/viewforum.php?forum=77

A few weeks ago in order to raise money for homeless people without clothing, Vrigin Mobile launched Strip2Clothe saying that for each strip video (of de-clothing) they would donate an article of clothing to a charity and another for each viewing with the motto,  "Someone out there needs clothes more than you."

The site was a big worry for parents who thought that their teenagers under 18 would strip, unzip and not reveal their real age. Although Virgin said that they did screen to see if strippers were over 18.  Non-profits also objected to the methodology and some of the charity partners withdrew from the program.

Virgin Monday, has changed the name"Blank2Clothe." By submitting any kind of talent video, Juggle2Clothe, Dance2 clothe etc., clothing will be donated. Videos that receive more views will generate more clothing donations.

The Mobile Marketing Association which represents 650 member companies worldwide, released its Global Code of Conduct, designed to provide guidelines that all Mobile Marketers should consider and build their mobile marketing initiatives around.

The Code has five categories:

Notice - The fundamental principle of the MMA Privacy Code of Conduct, informing users of the marketers' identity or products and services offered and the key terms and conditions that govern an interaction between the marketer and the user's mobile device.

Choice & Consent - Respecting the right of the user to control which mobile messages they receive by obtaining consent (opt-in) and implementing a simple termination (opt-out) process.

Customization & Constraint - Ensuring that collected user information is used to tailor communication to the interests of the recipient and is handled responsibly, sensitively and in compliance with applicable law. Mobile messages should be limited to those requested by the user and provide value such as product and service enhancements, contests, requested information, entertainment or discounts.

Security - The implementation of reasonable technical, administrative and physical procedures to protect user information from unauthorized use, alteration, disclosure, distribution, or access.

Enforcement & Accountability - The MMA expects its members to comply with the MMA Privacy Code of Conduct and has incorporated the Code into applicable MMA Guidelines, including the U.S. Consumer Best Practice ("CBP") Guidelines. Until the Code can be enforced effectively by a third party enforcement organization, Mobile Marketers are expected to use evaluations of their practices to certify compliance with the Code.

The Mobile Marketing Association has updated its Consumer Best Practices (CBP) Guidelines for Cross-Carrier Mobile Content Services.

Modifications to the July 9, 2008 Guidelines include the following key areas:

• use of wireless carrier SMTP gateways for commercial traffic
• handset delivery
• clarifications around promotional content and marketing to children
• expansion of and clarification of guidelines for Free To End User (FTEU)
• standard and premium rate messaging
• mobile web and interactive voice response (IVR).

The guidelines are effective immediately and are available for download.

AT&T announced its encore performance as the presenting sponsor of Vans Warped Tour 2008, which kicks off today in Pomona, Calif. The popular summer music tour offers AT&T a chance to interact with music lovers and provide special VIP services to its wireless customers. Additionally, to support the Warped Tour’s Eco-Initiative, AT&T is encouraging all concert-goers to donate their used cell phones to support the Cell Phones for Soldiers program.

Sponsorship Includes: - AT&T Signing Stage - AT&T Backstage Acoustic Performances - AT&T Drop Inn - AT&T Supports Cell Phones for Soldiers - AT&T Reverse Daycare - Warped Tour Radio - Warped Tour Text Alerts

Seattle-based startup Knovolo announced its Real Estate Text Link product for real estate agents and independent home sellers. This service combines text messaging with specialized Mobile Web content to provide a powerful new avenue to communicate with buyers. Subscribers to the service receive a sign, to be affixed to the For Sale sign in front of property for sale, which reads”For more information: text DEMO to 732589 (REALTY)”

where “demo” is replaced by a unique keyword specific to that listing. Any potential buyer that follows these instructions will receive a text response in a matter of seconds with basic information about the listing, the seller’s phone number, and a Mobile Web link. The buyer can then click on the link to be taken to a Mobile Web page with several full-color photos, detailed specifications on the listing, and seller’s contact information.

The service is free to the potential buyer (aside from possible carrier text messaging fees). Knovolo charges the real estate agent a one-time fee, good for the life of the listing, which includes all the setup work (text message creation, keyword registration, Mobile Web design and publishing) and a sign rider to be displayed at the property.

Greystripe released  statistics from their internal database of users, their catalogue partners and third party research studies. These statistics include consumer insights, demographics and click-through rates. The results provide an interesting, inside look into the advertising potential within mobile games.

According to Greystripe's results, a significant number of mobile gamers are part of a coveted demographic in the advertising world. No longer the territory of just middle-aged women, Greystripe's 800+ games are the most popular among the sought-after 18 to 34-year old age group. 68% of Greystripe's GameJump users in the United States, and 75% of users worldwide, fall between 18 and 34 years old. Additionally, Greystripe's users are split almost evenly amongst men and women. Consumers in the U.S. are split 60% male-40% female, confirming that mobile gaming does reach both men and women.

Kmart has partnered with Universal Pictures, Marvel Entertainment and Burger King for a multichannel entertainment marketing promotion supporting the June 13 release of THE INCREDIBLE HULK.

Kmart is offering a text-to-win sweepstakes, giving consumers a chance to win a trip for four people to the Universal Studios Orlando theme park. Other prizes include Kmart gift cards and THE INCREDIBLE HULK merchandise.

Kmart will offer “Incredible Dad” Hulk-themed gift cards to coincide with the “Incredible Dads” Father’s Day Promotion. Consumers who purchase $50 in Kmart gift cards will receive “movie money” good for up to two general admissions to take their “Incredible Dad” to see THE INCREDIBLE HULK. A

Intera Group, Inc.announced its partnership with Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco to deliver special offers and promotions to visitors at PIER 39 directly to their mobile phones and devices. Offers are highly targeted to Bluetooth “zones” up to 200 feet in diameter. Since the offers are delivered via Intera’s Bluetooth Proximity Marketing network, independent of the wireless carriers, they’re absolutely free to consumers.

“Intera’s Bluetooth Proximity Marketing network has generated outstanding results for us,” said Bob Boemer, sales and marketing manager for Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco. “The results are expected to get even better as we add call-to-action signage to make more people aware of our mobile marketing campaign.”

Hard Rock’s special offers are available in a number of locations at PIER 39. Once Bluetooth is turned on and “discoverable” on the mobile devices, consumers are asked if they wish to accept an offer. If they agree, it is sent to their mobile devices in seconds. To redeem the offer, they simply go to Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco and show it to their server or at the cash register. The San Francisco cafe will also utilize Intera’s network to promote special events throughout the year.

“Intera’s Bluetooth Proximity Marketing network enables brands to reach consumers in a highly targeted and cost-effective manner,” said Kevin Thornton, CEO of Intera. “Our network is designed to reach people near the point of sale, while they’re most likely to be responsive to and act on an offer. We provide brands and their agencies a distribution channel that is highly effective, with measurable and compelling results, bringing online-style measurement to out-of-home marketing.”

AOL and Virgin Mobile USA announced  that Platform-A will serve as the exclusive display advertising and sales partner for Virgin Mobile USA’s WAP banner inventory. Under the terms of an agreement between the parties, the Platform-A sales force will manage Virgin Mobile USA’s WAP banner inventory, while fully leveraging Platform-A’s Third Screen Media mobile ad serving platform. Third Screen Media (http://www.thirdscreenmedia.com) is Platform-A’s mobile ad serving platform and network.

Virgin Mobile USA has an audience of more than 5 million subscribers and is the largest mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) in the United States.

Mpowerplayer, a provider of online mobile game trial and merchandising for the wireless industry, and Movaya, the complete web-based, e-commerce software platform for mobile-content transactions, announced a partnership to integrate Movaya’s PlugNPlay purchasing solution into Mpowerplayer’s desktop arcade.

“Mpowerplayer’s user base of consumers wanting to test drive mobile games from their PC continues to grow,” said Joe Ariganello, vice president of business development at Mpowerplayer. “Movaya’s plug and play has clearly emerged as a perfect complimentary platform to integrate purchasing into our desktop mobile arcade, making the purchase process seamless and easy for seasoned or new mobile game consumers.”

“Mpowerplayer’s offering to consumers interested in mobile games is a natural fit for our PlugNPlay platform,” said Phil Yerkes, CEO of Movaya. “Our technologies complement each other and give publishers more options to help drive sales and deliver mobile games to more and more consumers.”

Aces Texas Hold’em No Limit and Aces Blackjack by Concrete Software (www.concretesoftware.com) will be the first titles enabled with Movaya’s PlugNPlay technology at the Mpowerplayer arcade, with several new titles planned to be added soon.

Qwest Communications and Verizon Wireless announced they have signed a 5-year agreement for Qwest to market and sell Verizon Wireless service beginning this summer.

Under the agreement, Qwest customers will have access to the full line of Verizon Wireless handsets, smartphones and BlackBerry devices, as well as high-speed broadband wireless services for e-mail, Internet access and multimedia services. Residential customers will be able to choose “wireless only” and be billed directly by Verizon Wireless, or include Verizon Wireless service as part of a Qwest bundle with their home phone, Internet and video services, and receive one bill from Qwest for all services.

Qwest residential customers will be able to buy Verizon Wireless products and services via Qwest’s call centers, Qwest’s retail stores and kiosks, and online at Qwest.com. Once billing systems are coordinated, residential customers will be able to elect to have their Verizon Wireless service charges included on their Qwest bill. Qwest customers will receive information in the near future about the Verizon Wireless products and services that will soon be available to them.

The Mobile Marketing Association (MMA), (www.mmaglobal.com), which represents more than 600 companies across the mobile marketing ecosystem, today announced the release of its global Mobile Advertising Guidelines.

The first set of global guidelines issued by the association, are designed to encourage the uptake of mobile advertising by brands worldwide whilst enhancing and protecting the customer’s experience, by creating a framework for brands and media companies to deliver mobile advertising in a positive and consistent way. The guidelines have received industry endorsements from associations such as IAB UK and Mexico, dotMobi Advisory Group (MAG), ADMA and others.

HipCricket, a pioneering mobile marketing company, launched the first-ever comprehensive Hispanic mobile marketing network. The network is composed of a family of Hispanic media properties that can be leveraged by brand marketers to deliver highly targeted and interactive mobile marketing programs directly to the handsets of opted-in, engaged mobile users who are part of the $860 billion Hispanic consumer market.

HipCricket, cited by CTIA and others for its innovation and ability to drive broadcast revenue and consumer engagement, also announced that major Hispanic media companies Bustos Media, Lotus Communications and Davidson Media Group are among the first to join the network. These companies and others collectively represent more than 50 radio and television stations, nearly one million listeners and viewers, 24 overall markets and reach into seven of the top 15 Hispanic markets.

Cellfire today announced a McDonald’s promotion in Utah that offers consumers free iced coffee, when they use Cellfire mobile coupons at participating McDonald’s locations.

The McDonald’s free iced coffee promotion runs until through April 27, as part of the launch of McDonald’s new iced coffee beverage and is good at participating restaurants throughout Utah, western Wyoming and eastern Nevada (no purchase is necessary).

Consumers downloading Cellfire to their mobile phones will receive the free iced coffee offer and future offers by participating McDonald’s restaurants. Consumers can access Cellfire at www.cellfire.com or by texting “mcd” to 22888 using their mobile phone. The Cellfire discounts for McDonald’s are automatically uploaded to their mobile phone, and consumers save when they show the offer on their phone when ordering.