Why You Should Care About Mobile Advertising

Back from 2006-2007, there was buzz about mobile advertising, starting with the launch of the Apple iPhone and its usage rate among mainstream mobile users. Many users were intrigued with the prospect of featuring ads on mobile phones, especially among smartphone users.

In late 2009,  Google’s purchase of AdMob at $750m caused a stir in the advertising world. This acquisition by Google (its 3rd most expensive next to Youtube and Doubleclick) highlighted to the industry how important mobile ads were projected to be in the coming years. Admob focuses on advertising in mobile phone platforms, such as Symbian, Android, Windows Mobile, Apple’s iPhone, and other smartphone platforms. There has been a gradual increase in smartphone usage over 2009. The following is a chart showing Android handset distribution. Compare the Jan to Dec charts, the results are impressive!

Using Google and Admob as an example, The following are some of the types of mobile advertising which are available today:

With the availability of mobile display ads (such as those on admob), it allows advertisers to tap on mobile users who are using their phones. It captures their attention while they are searching for information or using a application on their mobile phone. While it is debatable which ad among the above is the most effective in getting the best response from mobile phone users, it is undeniable that mobile ads are now more dynamic then the simple sms ads which were used in the past.

Overall, expect to hear more news about mobile advertising in 2010. We will take the chance to share more on this emerging new platform in time to come. Stay tuned!