Rs. 48,000 Crores Business Opportunity in Mobile Value Added Services - Sify

New Delhi, Delhi, India:Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will be launching video on demand for its mobile phone subscribers in a month’s time. The announcement was made by Chairman & Managing Director Shri Rakesh K Upadhyay, BSNL while inaugurating VAS ASIA 2012, 12th International Conference & Exhibition at New Delhi, organized by Bharat Exhibitions.

“The MVAS industry is expected to create a business opportunity worth around INR 48,000 crore by the year 2015. This in itself is a clear indication of the future of VAS services in India. No doubt this has created a new excitement for all those who are in this space and for those who are entering,” said Shashi Dharan, Managing Director, Bharat Exhibitions.

During his address, Shri A. K. Bhargava, Executive Director (Wireless Service) Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) said that the story of the value added service on the mobile phone is just the beginning. “All products on the mobile phone are for the masses, there is a requirement of creative innovation, which should be cost effective and for masses Shri Bhargava added.

The emergence of the mobile phone as the single device for a host of services has changed the paradigm in the communication and entertainment industries with several discreet devices being displaced in favour of a single device, said Mr. Rajan S. Mathews, Director-General of Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). He drew attention to some emerging problems in the telecommunication area where customer charges needed to be as low as possible for the mass communication device to be affordable to the last man. “The “exploding cost of regulation” is a critical issue. The increasing introduction of regulatory issues into what is actually market driven service is affecting the growth of this sector, “said Mr. Mathews.

“Mobile internet users are expected to surpass the desktop Internet users 2014. The disparity in the time spent on mobile (10 per cent) and the advertisement spend (1per cent) would also rebalance soon, thereby boosting revenue from the mobile VAS for the operators. With advertising revenue rising by at least three times in two years from now this sector will also bridge the social media and location based marketing with personalization that was not possible till now, “ said Mr. Alex Moukas, CEO Velti, while delivering the keynote address at the VAS Asia 2012. He further added that explosive mobile Internet adoption will surpass the desk top users.

“India’s Internet users penetration will rise to 35 per cent by 2015 and more than three quarters will choose mobile phone access,” said Mr. Sukesh Jain, head VAS & Content, Bharti Airtel. The total Internet access capability by 2015 is expected to rise from 100 million to 450 million, of which 41 percent will be using mobile only and another 38 per cent both cell phone and PC. Data service on the mobile is expected to broaden and deepen customer experience with the cell phone with the consequent improvement in the operator revenues. Revenue contribution from current VAS services is expected to come down as revenues from data increase as a percentage of total revenue.

What was holding back the prospect of huge revenues from mobile VAS was the fact that smart phone base was growing slowly till recently. In the first quarter of this year out of 50 million new devices sold, smart phones constituted only 2.7 million and the total smart phone base in the country is around 27 million, while the total subscribers base have crossed 950 million. The population that needs to be addressed is the regional language speakers who are the large majority compared to only 7 per cent knowing English speaking population.

“Mobile VAS has huge revenue potentials, the global average share of MVAS revenue is leading user countries is pegged at approximately 23 per cent ,” said Mr. Chandan Ghosh, Head -Global Wholesale & Carrier Business , Aircel Limited. The drive to increase average revenue per user and gain customer loyalty in a highly competitive market has led operators to liven up their mobile portfolios. Operators are looking at various means to use MVAS as a growth driver and key differentiator. According to him the industry falling prices of handsets and increasing competition was forcing manufacturers to shift focus to services. For operators falling voice revenues, increasing competition and heavy investments in 3G have made them to turn to VAS to secure their business.

New opportunities were emerging for banks, educational institutions and health care providers to use value added services over their mobile. This could be the game that operators would have to address to improve their revenues. The broad categories for successful monetization of MVAS were in M-education, M-commerce, M-Health and M-Infotainment. “The end game is not about generating new revenues. It’s about delivering compelling customer experience in order to extract new value from existing customers”, said Mr. Ghosh.

“The opportunity for the technology players to play a critical role in the further expansion of the Indian VAS Market has become more crucial now”, said Mr. John He, CEO, DONJIN Communication Technology Co. Ltd.

About Bharat Exhibitions:

In a world where technology is erasing borders, it is indeed ironical that professionals find it increasingly difficult to maintain peer to peer contact on regular basis. Bharat Exhibitions fills in this space by managing and hosting some of India’s premier Telecom & IT events. We own niche and prestigious conference properties in the new generation technology arena such as VAS Asia, LTE India, Broadband Tech India, Enterprise India, Cloud Computing India, Data Centre India, Green Telecom India and Mobile Payment India. We have a simple mission: Establish & deliver contacts that create value for your business.

For more details, please visit http://www.bharatexhibitions.com.
Contact:
Rajesh Prothi, Absolute Factor, +91 9810209123

View the original article here

Rs. 48,000 Crores Business Opportunity in Mobile Value Added Services - Sify

New Delhi, Delhi, India:Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will be launching video on demand for its mobile phone subscribers in a month’s time. The announcement was made by Chairman & Managing Director Shri Rakesh K Upadhyay, BSNL while inaugurating VAS ASIA 2012, 12th International Conference & Exhibition at New Delhi, organized by Bharat Exhibitions.

“The MVAS industry is expected to create a business opportunity worth around INR 48,000 crore by the year 2015. This in itself is a clear indication of the future of VAS services in India. No doubt this has created a new excitement for all those who are in this space and for those who are entering,” said Shashi Dharan, Managing Director, Bharat Exhibitions.

During his address, Shri A. K. Bhargava, Executive Director (Wireless Service) Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) said that the story of the value added service on the mobile phone is just the beginning. “All products on the mobile phone are for the masses, there is a requirement of creative innovation, which should be cost effective and for masses Shri Bhargava added.

The emergence of the mobile phone as the single device for a host of services has changed the paradigm in the communication and entertainment industries with several discreet devices being displaced in favour of a single device, said Mr. Rajan S. Mathews, Director-General of Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). He drew attention to some emerging problems in the telecommunication area where customer charges needed to be as low as possible for the mass communication device to be affordable to the last man. “The “exploding cost of regulation” is a critical issue. The increasing introduction of regulatory issues into what is actually market driven service is affecting the growth of this sector, “said Mr. Mathews.

“Mobile internet users are expected to surpass the desktop Internet users 2014. The disparity in the time spent on mobile (10 per cent) and the advertisement spend (1per cent) would also rebalance soon, thereby boosting revenue from the mobile VAS for the operators. With advertising revenue rising by at least three times in two years from now this sector will also bridge the social media and location based marketing with personalization that was not possible till now, “ said Mr. Alex Moukas, CEO Velti, while delivering the keynote address at the VAS Asia 2012. He further added that explosive mobile Internet adoption will surpass the desk top users.

“India’s Internet users penetration will rise to 35 per cent by 2015 and more than three quarters will choose mobile phone access,” said Mr. Sukesh Jain, head VAS & Content, Bharti Airtel. The total Internet access capability by 2015 is expected to rise from 100 million to 450 million, of which 41 percent will be using mobile only and another 38 per cent both cell phone and PC. Data service on the mobile is expected to broaden and deepen customer experience with the cell phone with the consequent improvement in the operator revenues. Revenue contribution from current VAS services is expected to come down as revenues from data increase as a percentage of total revenue.

What was holding back the prospect of huge revenues from mobile VAS was the fact that smart phone base was growing slowly till recently. In the first quarter of this year out of 50 million new devices sold, smart phones constituted only 2.7 million and the total smart phone base in the country is around 27 million, while the total subscribers base have crossed 950 million. The population that needs to be addressed is the regional language speakers who are the large majority compared to only 7 per cent knowing English speaking population.

“Mobile VAS has huge revenue potentials, the global average share of MVAS revenue is leading user countries is pegged at approximately 23 per cent ,” said Mr. Chandan Ghosh, Head -Global Wholesale & Carrier Business , Aircel Limited. The drive to increase average revenue per user and gain customer loyalty in a highly competitive market has led operators to liven up their mobile portfolios. Operators are looking at various means to use MVAS as a growth driver and key differentiator. According to him the industry falling prices of handsets and increasing competition was forcing manufacturers to shift focus to services. For operators falling voice revenues, increasing competition and heavy investments in 3G have made them to turn to VAS to secure their business.

New opportunities were emerging for banks, educational institutions and health care providers to use value added services over their mobile. This could be the game that operators would have to address to improve their revenues. The broad categories for successful monetization of MVAS were in M-education, M-commerce, M-Health and M-Infotainment. “The end game is not about generating new revenues. It’s about delivering compelling customer experience in order to extract new value from existing customers”, said Mr. Ghosh.

“The opportunity for the technology players to play a critical role in the further expansion of the Indian VAS Market has become more crucial now”, said Mr. John He, CEO, DONJIN Communication Technology Co. Ltd.

About Bharat Exhibitions:

In a world where technology is erasing borders, it is indeed ironical that professionals find it increasingly difficult to maintain peer to peer contact on regular basis. Bharat Exhibitions fills in this space by managing and hosting some of India’s premier Telecom & IT events. We own niche and prestigious conference properties in the new generation technology arena such as VAS Asia, LTE India, Broadband Tech India, Enterprise India, Cloud Computing India, Data Centre India, Green Telecom India and Mobile Payment India. We have a simple mission: Establish & deliver contacts that create value for your business.

For more details, please visit http://www.bharatexhibitions.com.
Contact:
Rajesh Prothi, Absolute Factor, +91 9810209123

View the original article here

Rs. 48,000 Crores Business Opportunity in Mobile Value Added Services - Sify

New Delhi, Delhi, India:Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will be launching video on demand for its mobile phone subscribers in a month’s time. The announcement was made by Chairman & Managing Director Shri Rakesh K Upadhyay, BSNL while inaugurating VAS ASIA 2012, 12th International Conference & Exhibition at New Delhi, organized by Bharat Exhibitions.

“The MVAS industry is expected to create a business opportunity worth around INR 48,000 crore by the year 2015. This in itself is a clear indication of the future of VAS services in India. No doubt this has created a new excitement for all those who are in this space and for those who are entering,” said Shashi Dharan, Managing Director, Bharat Exhibitions.

During his address, Shri A. K. Bhargava, Executive Director (Wireless Service) Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) said that the story of the value added service on the mobile phone is just the beginning. “All products on the mobile phone are for the masses, there is a requirement of creative innovation, which should be cost effective and for masses Shri Bhargava added.

The emergence of the mobile phone as the single device for a host of services has changed the paradigm in the communication and entertainment industries with several discreet devices being displaced in favour of a single device, said Mr. Rajan S. Mathews, Director-General of Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). He drew attention to some emerging problems in the telecommunication area where customer charges needed to be as low as possible for the mass communication device to be affordable to the last man. “The “exploding cost of regulation” is a critical issue. The increasing introduction of regulatory issues into what is actually market driven service is affecting the growth of this sector, “said Mr. Mathews.

“Mobile internet users are expected to surpass the desktop Internet users 2014. The disparity in the time spent on mobile (10 per cent) and the advertisement spend (1per cent) would also rebalance soon, thereby boosting revenue from the mobile VAS for the operators. With advertising revenue rising by at least three times in two years from now this sector will also bridge the social media and location based marketing with personalization that was not possible till now, “ said Mr. Alex Moukas, CEO Velti, while delivering the keynote address at the VAS Asia 2012. He further added that explosive mobile Internet adoption will surpass the desk top users.

“India’s Internet users penetration will rise to 35 per cent by 2015 and more than three quarters will choose mobile phone access,” said Mr. Sukesh Jain, head VAS & Content, Bharti Airtel. The total Internet access capability by 2015 is expected to rise from 100 million to 450 million, of which 41 percent will be using mobile only and another 38 per cent both cell phone and PC. Data service on the mobile is expected to broaden and deepen customer experience with the cell phone with the consequent improvement in the operator revenues. Revenue contribution from current VAS services is expected to come down as revenues from data increase as a percentage of total revenue.

What was holding back the prospect of huge revenues from mobile VAS was the fact that smart phone base was growing slowly till recently. In the first quarter of this year out of 50 million new devices sold, smart phones constituted only 2.7 million and the total smart phone base in the country is around 27 million, while the total subscribers base have crossed 950 million. The population that needs to be addressed is the regional language speakers who are the large majority compared to only 7 per cent knowing English speaking population.

“Mobile VAS has huge revenue potentials, the global average share of MVAS revenue is leading user countries is pegged at approximately 23 per cent ,” said Mr. Chandan Ghosh, Head -Global Wholesale & Carrier Business , Aircel Limited. The drive to increase average revenue per user and gain customer loyalty in a highly competitive market has led operators to liven up their mobile portfolios. Operators are looking at various means to use MVAS as a growth driver and key differentiator. According to him the industry falling prices of handsets and increasing competition was forcing manufacturers to shift focus to services. For operators falling voice revenues, increasing competition and heavy investments in 3G have made them to turn to VAS to secure their business.

New opportunities were emerging for banks, educational institutions and health care providers to use value added services over their mobile. This could be the game that operators would have to address to improve their revenues. The broad categories for successful monetization of MVAS were in M-education, M-commerce, M-Health and M-Infotainment. “The end game is not about generating new revenues. It’s about delivering compelling customer experience in order to extract new value from existing customers”, said Mr. Ghosh.

“The opportunity for the technology players to play a critical role in the further expansion of the Indian VAS Market has become more crucial now”, said Mr. John He, CEO, DONJIN Communication Technology Co. Ltd.

About Bharat Exhibitions:

In a world where technology is erasing borders, it is indeed ironical that professionals find it increasingly difficult to maintain peer to peer contact on regular basis. Bharat Exhibitions fills in this space by managing and hosting some of India’s premier Telecom & IT events. We own niche and prestigious conference properties in the new generation technology arena such as VAS Asia, LTE India, Broadband Tech India, Enterprise India, Cloud Computing India, Data Centre India, Green Telecom India and Mobile Payment India. We have a simple mission: Establish & deliver contacts that create value for your business.

For more details, please visit http://www.bharatexhibitions.com.
Contact:
Rajesh Prothi, Absolute Factor, +91 9810209123

View the original article here

Rs. 48,000 Crores Business Opportunity in Mobile Value Added Services - Press Trust

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will be launching video on demand for its mobile phone subscribers in a month's time. The announcement was made by Chairman & Managing Director Shri Rakesh K Upadhyay, BSNL while inaugurating VAS ASIA 2012, 12th International Conference & Exhibition at New Delhi, organized by Bharat Exhibitions.

"The MVAS industry is expected to create a business opportunity worth around INR 48,000 crore by the year 2015. This in itself is a clear indication of the future of VAS services in India. No doubt this has created a new excitement for all those who are in this space and for those who are entering," said Shashi Dharan, Managing Director, Bharat Exhibitions.

During his address, Shri A. K. Bhargava, Executive Director (Wireless Service) Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) said that the story of the value added service on the mobile phone is just the beginning. "All products on the mobile phone are for the masses, there is a requirement of creative innovation, which should be cost effective and for masses Shri Bhargava added.

The emergence of the mobile phone as the single device for a host of services has changed the paradigm in the communication and entertainment industries with several discreet devices being displaced in favour of a single device, said Mr. Rajan S. Mathews, Director-General of Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). He drew attention to some emerging problems in the telecommunication area where customer charges needed to be as low as possible for the mass communication device to be affordable to the last man. "The "exploding cost of regulation" is a critical issue. The increasing introduction of regulatory issues into what is actually market driven service is affecting the growth of this sector, "said Mr. Mathews.

"Mobile internet users are expected to surpass the desktop Internet users 2014. The disparity in the time spent on mobile (10 per cent) and the advertisement spend (1per cent) would also rebalance soon, thereby boosting revenue from the mobile VAS for the operators. With advertising revenue rising by at least three times in two years from now this sector will also bridge the social media and location based marketing with personalization that was not possible till now, " said Mr. Alex Moukas, CEO Velti, while delivering the keynote address at the VAS Asia 2012. He further added that explosive mobile Internet adoption will surpass the desk top users.

"India's Internet users penetration will rise to 35 per cent by 2015 and more than three quarters will choose mobile phone access," said Mr. Sukesh Jain, head VAS & Content, Bharti Airtel. The total Internet access capability by 2015 is expected to rise from 100 million to 450 million, of which 41 percent will be using mobile only and another 38 per cent both cell phone and PC. Data service on the mobile is expected to broaden and deepen customer experience with the cell phone with the consequent improvement in the operator revenues. Revenue contribution from current VAS services is expected to come down as revenues from data increase as a percentage of total revenue.

What was holding back the prospect of huge revenues from mobile VAS was the fact that smart phone base was growing slowly till recently. In the first quarter of this year out of 50 million new devices sold, smart phones constituted only 2.7 million and the total smart phone base in the country is around 27 million, while the total subscribers base have crossed 950 million. The population that needs to be addressed is the regional language speakers who are the large majority compared to only 7 per cent knowing English speaking population.

"Mobile VAS has huge revenue potentials, the global average share of MVAS revenue is leading user countries is pegged at approximately 23 per cent ," said Mr. Chandan Ghosh, Head -Global Wholesale & Carrier Business , Aircel Limited. The drive to increase average revenue per user and gain customer loyalty in a highly competitive market has led operators to liven up their mobile portfolios. Operators are looking at various means to use MVAS as a growth driver and key differentiator. According to him the industry falling prices of handsets and increasing competition was forcing manufacturers to shift focus to services. For operators falling voice revenues, increasing competition and heavy investments in 3G have made them to turn to VAS to secure their business.

New opportunities were emerging for banks, educational institutions and health care providers to use value added services over their mobile. This could be the game that operators would have to address to improve their revenues. The broad categories for successful monetization of MVAS were in M-education, M-commerce, M-Health and M-Infotainment. "The end game is not about generating new revenues. It's about delivering compelling customer experience in order to extract new value from existing customers", said Mr. Ghosh.

"The opportunity for the technology players to play a critical role in the further expansion of the Indian VAS Market has become more crucial now", said Mr. John He, CEO, DONJIN Communication Technology Co. Ltd.

View the original article here

Research and Markets: Mobile Marketing Strategies and Emerging Opportunities in the BRIC Countries

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/djtj8k/mobile_marketing_s) has announced the addition of the "Mobile Marketing Strategies and Emerging Opportunities in the BRIC Countries" report to their offering.

Across the four emerging BRIC countries, high mobile penetration has generated opportunities for mobile marketing initiatives. These initiatives have become popular among businesses as they have a broad reach, the ability to monitor responses, and can offer location-based promotions. As such, companies across a variety of industries have started developing mobile marketing strategies with increasing marketing budget allocations.

The aim of mobile marketing varies across different industries, although the main focus is to develop promotions that target specific consumer groups and launch new service offerings. Mobile marketing in the BRIC countries currently takes the form of mass market campaigns that target customers through bulk messages.

However, this is expected to change as marketers start utilizing location-based services, which will be driven by the increased penetration of smartphones and improved mobile infrastructure to enable accurate and high-bandwidth services. As such, BRICdata expects mobile marketing campaigns will become more personalized through using location-based promotional strategies.

Scope:

- This report provides an extensive analysis of the mobile marketing market in the four BRIC nations - Brazil, Russia, India and China

- It provides current and forecast market sizing for mobile marketing spend in each of the BRIC nations

- It offers detailed analysis of business, infrastructure, technology and consumer trends driving the growth of the mobile marketing market in each of the BRIC countries

- The report highlights the key challenges faced by the mobile marketing market

- It provides case examples of innovative mobile marketing strategies adopted by key players across consumer industries such as FMCG, healthcare, banking, and travel and tourism

- It also provides insights into the future of mobile marketing and upcoming trends shaping the growth of the market in each of the BRIC countries

Reasons to Buy:

- Gain in-depth insight into mobile marketing strategies in each of the BRIC countries

- Take informed decisions and formulate effective technical and marketing strategies based on the report's detailed market insights on mobile marketing

- Understand the key consumer, business and economic trends impacting mobile marketing in each of the BRIC nations

- Gain insight into mobile marketing strategies adopted by key players across consumer industries such as FMCG, healthcare, banking, and travel and tourism

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/djtj8k/mobile_marketing_s

View the original article here

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Google Void Seen as Opportunity for China Mobile App Store: Tech - Businessweek

Google Inc. (GOOG) (GOOG)’s Android operating system runs two-thirds of the smartphones sold in China yet the company’s online app store, Google Play, isn’t open for business there because of censorship concerns. That’s creating an opportunity for China Mobile Ltd. (941)

The world’s biggest phone company by subscribers opened its Mobile Market store for Android apps in 2009, and it now has 158 million registered users. Customers have downloaded more than 630 million apps, making Mobile Market the world’s largest carrier-operated app store, said Jack Kent of IHS Screen Digest.

The success of Mobile Market comes at a welcome juncture for the wireless giant, fueling revenue growth as its core business matures. China Mobile competes with Apple Inc. (AAPL) (AAPL)’s App Store in a nation where Analysys International said mobile applications and services are set to jump 80 percent to 220 billion yuan ($35 billion) this year as cheaper smartphones make surfing the Web more affordable.

“Without having to compete with the official Google store, China Mobile has an opportunity that operators in other countries don’t have,” said Kent, a London-based analyst. “China Mobile’s relationship with subscribers leaves it well- placed to take advantage.”

The carrier’s data services business, including Mobile Market, jumped 15 percent last year to 139.3 billion yuan, compared with an 8.8 percent growth in total sales.

China Mobile shares fell 0.8 percent to HK$81.90 in Hong Kong trading today, trimming the gains this year to 7.9 percent.

Shipments of smartphones in China are projected to jump 52 percent this year to 137 million units, overtaking the U.S. for the first time as the world’s biggest market, according to a March estimate from market researcher IDC.

Phones running Android accounted for 68 percent of sales in the fourth quarter, while Apple’s iPhone made up 5.7 percent, according to Beijing-based Analysys International. Apple’s online store generated about $2.9 billion in global app sales last year, compared with about $618 million for Google, Kent estimated.

“The reason we care about this business is that it can help drive or promote our other businesses,” China Mobile’s Chief Executive Officer Li Yue said in a May 16 interview. “If a developer makes a very good app, then it will help boost traffic on our network and help our growth that way.”

All Web content in China is censored, and that control extends to online stores selling apps, games and e-books. Both Mobile Market and Apple’s Chinese-language store, which takes payment in local currency, abide by government censorship restrictions and don’t offer apps to access the blocked websites of Facebook Inc., Twitter Inc. and YouTube Inc.

Google said in January 2010 it was no longer willing to self-censor content for Chinese services, so it shuttered its local search page and redirected users to a Hong Kong site. Taj Meadows, a Tokyo-based spokesman for Google, declined to comment on why Google Play was unavailable in China. The store has more than 450,000 apps and games, the company said in March.

China Mobile’s store has 68,663 apps, compared with 560,957 for Apple, said Sun Peilin, a researcher at Analysys International. Mobile Market’s offerings include Instagram Inc.’s photo-sharing and editing software, and Rovio Entertainment Oy’s Angry Birds, Angry Birds Seasons and Angry Birds Space.

China Mobile’s sales from applications and information services grew 12 percent to 48.4 billion yuan last year, accounting for 9.2 percent of total sales and overtaking text messages as the company’s biggest source of data revenue.

That total includes 22 billion yuan from mobile music, 1.5 billion yuan from mobile e-mail services, 627 million yuan from e-books and 571 million yuan from mobile videos, according to the company’s annual report.

Mobile Market has become the world’s largest Chinese- language application software platform, Li said.

Sales from the Mobile Market last year were about 23 million yuan, though the traffic generated by app downloads among China Mobile’s 667.2 million mobile-phone subscribers is more important to the carrier, Li said.

China Mobile is forecast to post its third straight year of sales growth after reporting revenue gains of at least 10 percent from the time of its 1997 Hong Kong listing through 2009. Sales growth may slow to 7 percent this year, according to the average of 31 analyst estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

China Mobile isn’t the only local company looking to fill the Google gap for Android apps. Analysys International tracks 13 major app stores in China, including from carriers China Unicom (Hong Kong) Ltd. (762) and China Telecom Corp. (728), and device makers including Lenovo Group Ltd. (992)

“We see a lot of competition in the app store space in China,” said Lisa Soh, a Hong Kong-based analyst with Macquarie Group Ltd. “The competition in app platforms is likely to mean it will be more difficult to monetize.”

One thing that may help China Mobile generate sales is that it offers the highest percentage of paid apps versus free apps among all stores in China, Sun said. Mobile Market charges for 91 percent of its apps, while China Unicom charges for 77 percent and Apple’s for 48 percent.

Many games in China Mobile’s shop are offered in local currency prices that range from the equivalent of 50 cents to $1.50.

“A couple of years ago, everyone began to realize how huge Apple’s App store was becoming and wanted into that market,” said Neil Juggins, a Hong Kong-based analyst at JI Asia Research Ltd.

To contact Bloomberg News staff for this story: Edmond Lococo in Beijing at elococo@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Michael Tighe at mtighe4@bloomberg.net

View the original article here

"Sony will change," grow in mobile, medical: CEO - Baltimore Sun

Sony Corp's new CEO Hirai speaks during a news conference at the company headquarters in Tokyo (YURIKO NAKAO, REUTERS / April 12, 2012)

TOKYO (Reuters) - Less than a fortnight into his job as CEO, Kazuo Hirai on Thursday sketched out a revival strategy for Sony Corp built around mobile electronics - phones, games and cameras - and a medical business with annual sales of $1.2 billion.

Hirai, who took over from Howard Stringer this month, has doubled Sony's annual loss forecast to a record $6.4 billion, and is under intense pressure to fix an ailing TV business and turn around a brand that has been trampled by Apple Inc and South Korea's Samsung Electronics.

"We have heard a multitude of investor voices calling for change," Hirai told a packed news conference at Sony's Tokyo headquarters, close to the company's first factory established 65 years ago. "Sony will change."

"Sony has always been an entrepreneurial company. That spirit has not changed," he said.

Sony, and other leading Japanese TV makers Sharp Corp and Panasonic Corp have been battered by weak demand, fierce competition and a stronger yen that makes exports less competitive.

The three companies expect a combined loss for the year just ended of $21 billion - more than Sony's entire market value, which has slumped by close to a fifth in the past month. Samsung is 10 times more valuable, while Apple, which Sony executives considered buying in the early 1990s, is worth 30 Sony's.

"It doesn't feel like an aggressive makeover," said Tetsuro Ii, president of Commons Asset Management, who oversees some $33 million worth of assets and does not hold Sony stock.

"You can't really see the roadmap for how they're going to revive the electronics business, nor how they're going to create new value."

Sony confirmed earlier media reports that it will cut around 10,000 jobs - 6 percent of its global workforce - and take a 75 billion yen ($926 million) restructuring charge in the current business year to next March. It also plans to cut fixed costs in the TV business by 60 percent in 2013/14 from last year's levels, and trim 30 percent off the business' operating costs.

"We cannot shy away from difficult decisions," Hirai said.

Eyeing new business opportunities in the fast-growing medical business, Sony said it was targeting annual sales of 50 billion yen in 2014/15, eventually doubling that, and was scouting for acquisitions and other strategic investments.

Sony is one of several potential partners that have been linked with disgraced medical equipment maker Olympus Corp, which has a 70 percent share of the global market for diagnostic endoscopes and is looking to shore up its finances after a $1.7 billion accounting fraud.

Sony has held up endoscopes, enhanced by its own graphics technology, as an example of new areas it is looking to for growth.

Hirai is looking for total group sales of 8.5 trillion yen ($105 billion) in 2014/15, with an operating margin of more than 5 percent.

In February, Hirai said he would widen the PlayStation gaming console online network to integrate all Sony devices, replacing three online content delivery platforms it currently operates.

Sony recently bought out Ericsson's half of their smartphone venture for $1.5 billion to shore up its position in a market where Apple and Samsung have become leaders. It has since launched its first smartphones, the Xperia series, under the Sony brand.

"Smartphones will become the hub device," Hirai said on Thursday, vowing to make Sony a leading player in mobile phones, tripling revenue to 1.8 trillion yen ($22.2 billion) over the next three business years.

Sony said it would also look for potential partners to make batteries for electric vehicles.

"Expanding in medical and electric vehicles is good because these businesses have better margins and they're areas that Japan is good at," said Michael On, managing director at Beyond Asset Management.

The latest job cuts follow two rounds of layoffs Stringer made in his six-year tenure at Sony. Chief Financial Officer Masaru Kato noted earlier this week that around 5,000 workers would come off the Sony payroll with the sale of a chemicals business and a small liquid crystal display fabricator.

Hirai said some of the cuts would be in TV, but gave no further details on how he planned to achieve the cuts he outlined for the business.

Sony shares closed 0.9 percent higher at 1,528 yen on Thursday ahead of the briefing. The benchmark Nikkei average ended up 0.7 percent. ($1 = 80.9950 Japanese yen)

(Additional reporting by Mari Saito in TOKYO and Clare Jim in TAIPEI.; Editing by Ian Geoghegan)

View the original article here

Mobile Business Plus - Start your own mobile website design business

MobileBusinessPlus is a complete business-in-a-box package that will allow you to start selling mobile websites to local businesses.

Our membership area contains a step by step training course on how to get your first client as well as templates and scripts plus tips and tricks from our current members.

Also inside is our W3C mobile compatible theme along with our custom coded online CMS that allows your clients to easily add, edit and delete any content when required.

View the original article here

Research and Markets: Mobile Money Opportunities in the BRIC Countries

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/aacb4ca2/mobile_money_oppor) has announced the addition of the "Mobile Money Opportunities in the BRIC Countries" report to their offering.

A large unbanked population supported by a developed mobile and banking system will be the fundamental driver for the growth of mobile-based financial services in Brazil. In Brazil the majority of mobile money initiatives are led by banks. The need to gain access to the potential market through the unbanked population is driving strategic business alliances between banks and mobile operators.

In Russia operators are placing a strong emphasis on making contactless mobile payment service available to users using the NFC standard, with NFC-enabled mobile payment trails initiated for making retail payments or on public transport. All three leading mobile operators in Russia, Megafon, MTS and Vimpelcom, collaborated to provide users with common access to each other's mobile payment services.

In India the growth of mobile money services increased as regulatory changes were implemented. Brought into effect by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the new regulations increased the per-day mobile money transfer limit to INR50,000 (US$1000) from the existing limit of INR5,000 (US$100). The rapidly growing mobile money market in India is driving the established business correspondents (BCs) to directly offer mobile payment services.

China is an upcoming destination for mobile money services owing to its large mobile subscriber base and increasing government support. China's UnionPay, a card network operator in China, in collaboration with China's leading banks, wireless operators and handset manufacturers, is forming a mobile payment industry alliance. This alliance is expected to enhance mobile payment coordination across industries by providing a single open mobile payment platform to users.

ABOUT THIS REPORT

The report provides top-level market analysis, information and insights, including:

- In-depth analysis of mobile money opportunities in the four BRIC countries: Brazil, Russia, India and China

- A comprehensive and country-specific analysis of market attractiveness, covering the key trends, drivers and challenges across the four countries

- Detailed mobile money market sizing and forecasts for 2011-2016 for each BRIC country including volume, value and average transaction size

Reasons To Buy

- Understand the various market dynamics within the mobile money market and use the knowledge to capitalize on the potential of these high-growth markets

- Take informed decisions and formulate effective technical and marketing strategies based on the report's detailed market insights on the mobile money market

- Understand the key consumer, business and economic trends within the mobile money market in each of the BRIC nations

- Gain insight on the growth strategies adopted by key mobile payment service providers

Key Topics Covered:

- Executive Summary

- Mobile Money Market Attractiveness of BRIC Nations

- Mobile Money Opportunities in Brazil

- Mobile Money Opportunities in Russia

- Mobile Money Opportunities in India

- Mobile Money Opportunities in China

- Case Study on Emerging Markets

- Appendix

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/aacb4ca2/mobile_money_oppor

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Microsoft and Nokia to Invest Up to 18 Million Euros in Mobile Application Development Program at Aalto University

HELSINKI, Finland, March 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- To drive innovation and business opportunities in Finland's mobile ecosystem and beyond, Microsoft Corp. and Nokia will each invest up to 9 million euros into a newly established mobile application development program at Aalto University during the next three years. The AppCampus program has been set up to foster the creation of innovative mobile applications for the Windows Phone ecosystem, and in addition Nokia platforms, including Symbian and Series 40, to create a new generation of self-sustaining mobile startups.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO)

Kicking off in May 2012, the Finland-based program will be led and managed by Aalto University, which has a growing reputation as a hotbed of new startup companies. AppCampus is intended to attract thousands of application proposals from students and entrepreneurs from all over the world. Aalto University will make a significant contribution to the project by providing premises, coaching services, and access to both academic and business networks for budding app developers.

Within the AppCampus program, mobile entrepreneurs can benefit from comprehensive support, training in mobile technology, design and usability, and funding to create innovative new mobile apps and services. Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store offer local and global business opportunities to program participants via distribution to consumers around the world.

Mentored by veterans in the mobile industry, program participants will be given insights and business coaching to help them commercialize their ideas while retaining the full intellectual property rights for their innovations.

"The ICT industry and knowledge base in Finland is one of the most competitive in the world, particularly in the mobile technology field," said Jyrki Katainen, Finnish prime minister, at the launch event for the AppCampus program in Helsinki. "Finland is an early-adopter market, and the significance of national education and technology innovation is deeply rooted in our culture. As a result, there is a growing appetite for entrepreneurship among the younger generation at Aalto University and beyond. The partnership between Microsoft and Nokia is a critical investment in this growing ecosystem and represents an exciting opportunity and access to global markets for our local startup community."

"AppCampus offers an unprecedented opportunity for entrepreneurs to put their ideas into practice and create world-class mobile products," said Klaus Holse, president, Microsoft Western Europe. "We want to turn a new leaf in the mobile industry and foster Finland's role as a center of excellence for mobile technology. Such investment into early-stage concepts has rarely been seen in this sector, and this demonstrates how highly both Nokia and Microsoft value Finnish mobile expertise."

"We are proud to announce this new program, which will enable new and existing developers to create next-generation mobile apps and unique user experiences," said Kai Oistamo, executive vice president, Nokia Corp. "The partnership will allow developers to ideate and monetize business opportunities globally, via both Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store."

"An essential part of Aalto University's mission is to strengthen Finland's competitiveness," said Tuula Teeri, president of Aalto University. "We are pleased to host this initiative, which concretely boosts utilization of new knowledge and skills in creation of new entrepreneurial ventures."

"Through our technology transfer and Aalto Venture Garage activities, the Aalto University community has been able to help catalyze the creation and growth of more than 30 companies during the past two years, with a number of them having mobile applications," said Will Cardwell, head of the Aalto University Center for Entrepreneurship, which will be charged with managing the program. "The people and ideas we work with hail from all corners of the world, and our partnership with Microsoft and Nokia will further strengthen our global network. This program will provide a unique opportunity to turn application ideas into real business with the support of world-class partners and coaches."

"Within our student community, we have a strong mission to boost entrepreneurship and to create more startups," said Teemu Tapanila, a board member of the Aalto Entrepreneurship Society and leader of the Windows Phone Aalto community. "We warmly welcome the opportunities and networks brought by this cooperation."

On the AppCampus Program

Mobile entrepreneurs can apply for grants within the AppCampus program beginning in May 2012. More information can be found at http://appcampus.aalto.fi.

About Nokia

Nokia is a global leader in mobile communications whose products have become an integral part of the lives of people around the world. Every day, more than 1.3 billion people use their Nokia to capture and share experiences, access information, find their way or simply to speak to one another. Nokia's technological and design innovations have made its brand one of the most recognized in the world. For more information, visit http://www.nokia.com/about-nokia.

About the Aalto University Center for Entrepreneurship

The Aalto Center for Entrepreneurship (ACE) at Aalto University, Finland, offers innovation, commercialization, and start-up services for Aalto University researchers, students and other stakeholders. In addition, we facilitate innovation and growth entrepreneurship by co-creating research and education of these areas across all the Aalto schools. ACE partially funds and participates in the award-winning Aalto Venture Garage and Startup Sauna open source seed accelerator. For more information, visit www.aalto.fi and http://ace.aalto.fi.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT - News) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential.

About Microsoft EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa)

Microsoft has operated in EMEA since 1982. In the region Microsoft employs more than 16,000 people in over 64 subsidiaries, delivering products and services in more than 139 countries and territories.

This material is for informational purposes only. Microsoft Corp disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to use of the material for other purposes. Microsoft Corp shall not, at any time, be liable for any special, direct, indirect or consequential damages, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other action arising out of or in connection with the use or performance of the material. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting any kind of warranty.

View the original article here

Microsoft and Nokia to Invest Up to 18 Million Euros in Mobile Application Development Program at Aalto University - Microsoft Presspass

HELSINKI, Finland — March 26, 2012 — To drive innovation and business opportunities in Finland’s mobile ecosystem and beyond, Microsoft Corp. and Nokia will each invest up to 9 million euros into a newly established mobile application development program at Aalto University during the next three years. The AppCampus program has been set up to foster the creation of innovative mobile applications for the Windows Phone ecosystem and in addition, Nokia platforms, including Symbian and Series 40, to create a new generation of self-sustaining mobile startups.

Kicking off in May 2012, the Finland-based program will be led and managed by Aalto University, which has a growing reputation as a hotbed of new startup companies. AppCampus is intended to attract thousands of application proposals from students and entrepreneurs from all over the world. Aalto University will make a significant contribution to the project by providing premises, coaching services, and access to both academic and business networks for budding app developers.

Within the AppCampus program, mobile entrepreneurs can benefit from comprehensive support, training in mobile technology, design and usability, and funding to create innovative new mobile apps and services. Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store offer local and global business opportunities to program participants via distribution to consumers around the world.

Mentored by veterans in the mobile industry, program participants will be given insights and business coaching to help them commercialize their ideas while retaining the full intellectual property rights for their innovations.

“The ICT industry and knowledge base in Finland is one of the most competitive in the world, particularly in the mobile technology field,” said Jyrki Katainen, Finnish prime minister, at the launch event for the AppCampus program in Helsinki. “Finland is an early-adopter market, and the significance of national education and technology innovation is deeply rooted in our culture. As a result, there is a growing appetite for entrepreneurship among the younger generation at Aalto University and beyond. The partnership between Microsoft and Nokia is a critical investment in this growing ecosystem and represents an exciting opportunity and access to global markets for our local startup community.”

“AppCampus offers an unprecedented opportunity for entrepreneurs to put their ideas into practice and create world-class mobile products,” said Klaus Holse, president, Microsoft Western Europe. “We want to turn a new leaf in the mobile industry and foster Finland’s role as a center of excellence for mobile technology. Such investment into early-stage concepts has rarely been seen in this sector, and this demonstrates how highly both Nokia and Microsoft value Finnish mobile expertise.”

“We are proud to announce this new program, which will enable new and existing developers to create next-generation mobile apps and unique user experiences,” said Kai Öistämö, executive vice president, Nokia Corp. “The partnership will allow developers to ideate and monetize business opportunities globally, via both Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store.”

“An essential part of Aalto University’s mission is to strengthen Finland’s competitiveness,” said Tuula Teeri, president of Aalto University. “We are pleased to host this initiative, which concretely boosts utilization of new knowledge and skills in creation of new entrepreneurial ventures.”

“Through our technology transfer and Aalto Venture Garage activities, the Aalto University community has been able to help catalyze the creation and growth of more than 30 companies during the past two years, with a number of them having mobile applications,” said Will Cardwell, head of the Aalto University Center for Entrepreneurship, which will be charged with managing the program. “The people and ideas we work with hail from all corners of the world, and our partnership with Microsoft and Nokia will further strengthen our global network. This program will provide a unique opportunity to turn application ideas into real business with the support of world-class partners and coaches.”

“Within our student community, we have a strong mission to boost entrepreneurship and to create more startups,” said Teemu Tapanila, a board member of the Aalto Entrepreneurship Society and leader of the Windows Phone Aalto community. “We warmly welcome the opportunities and networks brought by this cooperation.”

On the AppCampus Program

Mobile entrepreneurs can apply for grants within the AppCampus program beginning in May 2012. More information can be found at http://appcampus.aalto.fi.

About Nokia

Nokia is a global leader in mobile communications whose products have become an integral part of the lives of people around the world. Every day, more than 1.3 billion people use their Nokia to capture and share experiences, access information, find their way or simply to speak to one another. Nokia’s technological and design innovations have made its brand one of the most recognized in the world. For more information, visit http://www.nokia.com/about-nokia.

About the Aalto University Center for Entrepreneurship

The Aalto Center for Entrepreneurship (ACE) at Aalto University, Finland, offers innovation, commercialization, and start-up services for Aalto University researchers, students and other stakeholders. In addition, we facilitate innovation and growth entrepreneurship by co-creating research and education of these areas across all the Aalto schools. ACE partially funds and participates in the award-winning Aalto Venture Garage and Startup Sauna open source seed accelerator. For more information, visit www.aalto.fi and http://ace.aalto.fi.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential.

About Microsoft EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa)

Microsoft has operated in EMEA since 1982. In the region Microsoft employs more than 16,000 people in over 64 subsidiaries, delivering products and services in more than 139 countries and territories.

This material is for informational purposes only. Microsoft Corp disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to use of the material for other purposes. Microsoft Corp shall not, at any time, be liable for any special, direct, indirect or consequential damages, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other action arising out of or in connection with the use or performance of the material. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting any kind of warranty.

Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://www.microsoft.com/news. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/news/contactpr.mspx.

View the original article here

Mobile Business Plus - Start your own mobile website design business

MobileBusinessPlus is a complete business-in-a-box package that will allow you to start selling mobile websites to local businesses.

Our membership area contains a step by step training course on how to get your first client as well as templates and scripts plus tips and tricks from our current members.

Also inside is our W3C mobile compatible theme along with our custom coded online CMS that allows your clients to easily add, edit and delete any content when required.

View the original article here

Booming German smartphone sales provide plenty of mobile business opportunities … - TMCnet

(M2 PressWIRE Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) About 14.5 million smartphones were sold in 2011 in Germany, which almost doubles the sales of 2010, according to the data of the German high-tech association BITKOM. ComScore regards the German mobile market as one of the strongest in Europe, selecting it together with UK, France, Italy and Spain for its panel research. The Mobile National Day Breakfast London conference about the Mobile Personal Internet on March 27th 2012 will bring the German market and its key players to London and give insights into this growing market full of opportunities. http://mobile-national-days.com/london.html While smartphone sales in the German consumer market have been strong, sales of standard mobile phones dropped by 26 per cent to 10.8 million sold devices. Smartphones are taking the lead with a constant average price of about 354 Euro, while the average price of a normal mobile phone dropped by 33 per cent to 74 Euro. This catapults the smartphone's turnover to more than 5.1 billion Euro, an increase by almost 90 per cent, and shows at the same time the wide range of opportunities available in the mobile market. The Mobile National Day Breakfast London event will presents some highlights on the market and some business cases with breakfast: real food for thought! Over croissants and coffee, Franz Obermayer, Strategic Accounts Director of German mobile interaction specialist tyntec will illustrate how universal mobile services such as SMS, voice and mobile numbers still offer much room for growth across a wide variety of applications. How does the evolution of these universal services enabling many new applications and business models, particularly in the OTT field? The answers to this question will be brought to life with current examples from the mobile interaction specialist with a wide range of telecom services from enterprise mission-critical applications to internet services and over 500 business clients worldwide and a strong base in Germany. Tyntec is trusted by the integration of the mobile channel into their services and communications, driving revenues, creating cost savings and increasing brand loyalty.

The conference will also look at the efficiency of application marketing, shown with the business case example of Trademob by its CEO, Ravi Kamran. While it is still a usual practice to measure only clicks and downloads, these indicators are not the optimal indicators for the business side of an applications success. Far more important are post download conversions like registrations and in-app-purchases, which are mostly left in the dark. Trademob focuses these important indicators with its measurement service, while also using the strength of many different advertising networks to provide the best possible advertising reach. This comes in handy especially with special target group niches, which are usually hard to reach with a single advertising network. With its unique tracking and optimization capabilities, Trademob tracks and optimizes mobile advertising campaigns for mobile apps across all ad networks with regard to the relevant KPIs (clicks, downloads, iAPs, sign-ups etc) with services are trusted by young startups, established players and some of the most innovative spearheads in the mobile industry.

You can find further information about the Mobile National Days and the registration for the London congress at www.mobile-national-days.com Organizer Mobile National Days 11 Prozent Communication, located in Erding, Germany, has established itself as a neutral communication platform for brands, media and the mobile and digital entertainment worlds. The consulting agency provides companies with detailed and extensive information on the e-game and mobile markets. In addition, 11 Prozent organizes events (www.gfm-world.de, www.m-days.com, www.mobile-content-days.de), does PR work and is the publisher of GFM Nachrichten (www.gfm-nachrichten.de), a periodical dealing with mobile, eGames, IPTV and social media.

Press contact Inga Kozuruba Tel.: +49 (0) 8122 / 955 - 625, Fax: +49 (0) 8122 / 955 627 E-Mail: i.kozuruba@11prozent.de, Web: http://www.mobile-national-days.com Angelique Szameitat, 11 Prozent Communication Tel.: +49 (0) 8122 / 955 - 625, Fax: +49 (0) 8122 / 955 627 E-Mail: a.szameitat@11prozent.de, Web: http://www.mobile-national-days.com ((M2 Communications disclaims all liability for information provided within M2 PressWIRE. Data supplied by named party/parties. Further information on M2 PressWIRE can be obtained at http://www.presswire.net on the world wide web. Inquiries to info@m2.com)).

(c) 2012 M2 COMMUNICATIONS [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]

October 2- 5, 2012
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View all >> Subscribe FREE to all of TMC's monthly magazines. Click here now.

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Mobify sees opportunity in mobile - Calgary Herald

Igor Faletski saw the future in 2006, on a student exchange trip to Prague.

Mobile phones were cheap and inexpensive access to a fast, reliable wireless network was a given - for a population with a standard of living substantially lower than what Faletski was accustomed to seeing in Canada.

At the end of the trip, Faletski and fellow Simon Fraser University computing sciences student John Boxall came home convinced that mobile business in North America was ripe with opportunity.

"We just saw the power of this mobile channel because in Canada in 2006, phones were expensive, they weren't that good, no iPhone, long contracts--no innovation, we thought," Faletski recalled.

"So we came back to Vancouver for our last year at SFU and started a club called Mobile Mondays. We would do events every two weeks and tell students how amazing it is to develop for mobile devices."

As it turns out a lot of the Mobile Monday members now work at Mobify, the company Faletski and Boxall founded to jump on the emerging mobile trend. Their first venture was a giveaway to fellow SFU students, a phone app of the Burnaby Mountain campus transit bus schedule. That led to a contract with TransLink - dial 3333 at mobile enabled bus stops around Metro Vancouver and you get updated information about the next bus at your stop.

After that came deals with BC Ferries and BC Hydro.

Then, with the arrival of iPhone came the deluge.

Mobify pivoted from developing apps to developing a behind-the-scenes web platform that allows companies to convert, pain-free, their conventional web pages into pages that can be viewed by a smart phone or a tablet.

It's the next big marketing opportunity for retailers. More than half of new Telus postpaid customers now opt for smart phones. Last week Pew Research found more Americans own smart phones than less-enabled cellphones.

Last October, tech analysts Gartner estimated that social and mobile presence will generate 50 per cent of Web sales by 2015.

Adds Faletski: "By 2015, Morgan Stanley said that mobile Web access will exceed desktop Web access and we think for that to really happen mobile sites need to be fast, look amazing and have the full functionality of the main website.

"We're focused on supporting that and empowering developers to succeed with our technology.

When you build a website you have to make sure it works on any device your customers might have.

"If you don't do that, then you're not going to deliver the best possible customer service to this channel and the customers won't be happy. They'll go somewhere else, like Amazon." So far, 20,000 companies have gone mobile through Mobify, including Starbucks, Lululemon and Conde Nast publications including Wired, GQ, Vanity Fair and The New Yorker.

The company has 25 employees, many of whom were Mobile Monday club members, is selffinancing, and has no immediate plan to initiate a round of financing to support growth.

Mobify's marketing pitch to potential customers includes what it calls the Hundred Day Pledge.

"We pledge to our ecommerce customers that they will get a full return on investment within a hundred days from going mobile with Mobify. Consumers aren't just browsing websites. They want to interact with them. They will prefer this to going to the desktop computer and pointing at things with the mouse and clicking buttons."

At a recent event, staged by Vancouver mobile technology incubator Wavefront, Faletski told an international audience that some companies don't need a full 100 days to recover their investment.

Lululemon, he noted, did it in two.

ssimpson@vancouversun.com Twitter @ScottSimpsun

© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun

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CANWE STUDIOS Raises $1.5 Million in Funding Through Private Investors to Launch CanWeNetwork Mobile App

AUSTIN, TX--(Marketwire -03/01/12)- CANWE STUDIOS LLC, a mobile application development company, today announced that it has secured $1.5 million in funding through private investors. The first application of the matching technology scheduled to come to market this summer is CanWeNetwork, which utilizes proprietary technology that will allow business professionals to meet and network with high-value peers seeking new business opportunities.

Founded in 2011 by Brooke Braswell and Dan Kloiber, CANWE STUDIOS is building a platform for social location-based apps that match individuals in the right context. The fundraising round was led by Kloiber, a successful angel investor and technology entrepreneur, who has founded and sold three software companies to Fortune 100 corporations, and currently sits on a number of technology start-up boards.

"The CanWeNetwork app meets a very critical demand in the marketplace today by having the ability to select and connect business professionals who would like to meet in real time and in person," said Kloiber. "The CanWeNetwork app is very different than other mobile social networking apps available today because it is designed to select high-value personal introductions that open up new opportunities for each individual that otherwise would have been missed."

"Our investors believe that the CanWeNetwork app will become a valuable resource for all types of professionals, across multiple verticals, to create real life intersection opportunities," said Brooke Braswell, CEO of CANWE STUDIOS. "With this app, no meeting will ever be a waste of time."

The CanWeNetwork app is currently accepting requests for its invite-only testing phase. It uses matching technology to ensure that business professionals are intelligently matched with other high-value business professionals seeking opportunities. It is expected to be available for the iPhone and Android phones this summer for download as a free app. The company will provide demonstrations of CanWeNetwork at the upcoming SXSW Interactive show.

ABOUT CANWE STUDIOS
Austin, TX-based CANWE STUDIOS is a mobile application development company building a platform for social geospacial apps that match individuals in context, including business, recruitment and nightlife. More information about the company can be found at http://canwestudios.com.

ABOUT CanWeNetwork
Developed by CANWE STUDIOS, the CanWeNetwork app is an innovative mobile app that is designed to select and connect business professionals with other business professionals ensuring there are no opportunities missed. It is a valuable mobile tool for individuals seeking high-value introductions.

For the latest updates, follow CanWeNetwork on Twitter at http://twitter.com/canwenetwork. More information can be found at http://canwenetwork.com

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Tulsa Internet Marketing TV - Mobile Marketing

http://www.tulsainternetmarketingservice.com/ On this episode of Tulsa Internet Marketing TV, Clarence Fisher gives a brief overview of the mobile marketing revolution and how you can use mobile marketing for your Tulsa small business. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6Oqpy1PVZQ

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Businesses Can Capture Signatures, Easily Calculate Taxes and Tips Using New Sage Mobile Payments 2.0 - TMCnet

(Marketwire Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) MCLEAN, VA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 01/31/12 -- Sage North America today announced the launch of Sage Mobile Payments 2.0, the latest version of its Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliant mobile payments product. Sage Mobile Payments comes bundled with a Sage merchant account, and allows businesses to cost effectively and securely process credit and debit card transactions on mobile devices, like cell phones and tablets, including Apple's iPad, across all major wireless carriers. Version 2.0 focuses on enhancing the customer experience through new features designed to save businesses time and increase the security of their transactions.

Enhancements built into Sage Mobile Payment 2.0 include an updated user interface, signature capture capabilities, a tax and tip calculator, and a free Sage Mobile "app store" download.

"In 2011, 25 percent of worldwide mobile PC shipments were tablets, and upwards of 75 percent U.S. small and midsized businesses plan to purchase tablets in the next year," said Greg Hammermaster, president of Sage Payment Solutions, the payments division for Sage. "Mobility has truly become a must-have in today's business world. Businesses using Sage Mobile Payments have a great opportunity to expand their sales and customer service opportunities, and with the confidence of a commercial-grade mobile payments solution. Sage Mobile Payments will help businesses evolve into this next phase of mobile payments." New Sage Mobile Payments 2.0 features: One Merchant Account -- Businesses can now use their existing Sage Merchant ID (MID) account to add mobile payments to their existing payment solution, and at the same low processing rate.Updated User Interface on Smart Phones -- The new, completely intuitive, colorful user interface makes processing payments easier than ever.Signature Capture -- Businesses can give customers peace of mind knowing a signature is required to complete their transaction. With the swipe of a finger, a signature is captured to complete a sale. A signed receipt is emailed to both the business and their customer.Tax And Tip Calculator -- Businesses no longer need a separate calculator to determine tax due and tips; Sage Mobile automatically calculates both.'App Store' Download -- By going to the Android Marketplace or Apple's iTunes store, businesses can download the Sage Mobile application at no cost. Then, once they have called Sage to set up their merchant account, they can start accepting mobile payments.

Businesses using Sage Mobile Payments can benefit from increased chances to close sales; anytime, anywhere transactions; a secure and PCI compliant payment processing environment; real-time authorizations for expedited cash flow; and minimal cost.

"While other vendors are fighting over no monthly fees, but higher processing costs for mobile transactions, we're still saying 'no' to mobile transaction surcharges," said Hammermaster. "With Sage Mobile Payments, businesses have the option to pay no more than they would to process regular credit or debit card transactions on a standard credit card terminal." Sage has been providing businesses and organizations with electronic payment systems for more than 20 years. The company allows more than 155,000 merchants to accept multiple forms of payment, including credit and debit cards, electronic checks, Check21, gift and loyalty cards, and automatic recurring payment. Sage Payment Solutions provides a wide range of secure standalone and integrated payment processing solutions, including Sage Exchange, Sage Virtual Terminal, Sage Mobile Payments, and Sage Patient Payments. Visit Sage Payment Solutions online at www.sagepayments.com, or follow them on Twitter at http://sagepayments.com/twitter and on Facebook at http://sagepayments.com/facebook.

About SageSage is a leading global supplier of business management software and services for small and midsized businesses. The Sage Group plc, formed in 1981, was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1989 and now employs more than 12,300 people and supports more than 6 million customers worldwide. For more information about Sage in North America, please visit the company website at www.SageNorthAmerica.com.

Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to Newsvine Press Contact: Cynthia Sutton Sage North America 571-612-6071 cynthia.sutton@sage.com Source: Sage [ InfoTech Spotlight's Homepage ]

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Research and Markets: mWomen: A Win-Win Opportunity for Mobile Operators - Global Telecom Insider Vol. 3, No 3, Edition 12 - Business Wire

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/fb6b59/mwomen_a_winwin) has announced the addition of the "mWomen: A Win-Win Opportunity for Mobile Operators - Global Telecom Insider/Vol. 3, No 3, Edition 12" report to their offering.

“mWomen: A Win-Win Opportunity for Mobile Operators - Global Telecom Insider/Vol. 3, No 3, Edition 12”

Although there has been a notable uptick in mobile phone subscriptions around the world, statistics increasingly point to the fact that there are still a number of women without access to mobile phone technology.

In February 2010, the GSMA released a landmark report that found that at least 300m fewer women than men have a mobile phone subscription. This difference in mobile phone access and ownership has been referred to as the mobile phone gender gap, and a number of groups and organizations are now racing to bridge this divide.

The impact that mobile phone access and usage can have on women has never been greater. The proliferation of projects in the fields of mobile health, mobile education, mobile agriculture, mobile money/banking, mobile social networks and mobile innovation in general have all demonstrated that women in particular can benefit both directly and indirectly through time and cost savings, access to life-saving information, the ability to communicate with others (who may be at long distances), increases in access to business opportunities, the ability to perform monetary transactions, and even nurturing their ability to read and write.

Cumulatively, these benefits for women can help mobile network operators (MNOs) create a situation that is equal parts altruistic and lucrative. Pyramid Research believes that by supporting access to mobile phones, operators can help women leverage the information and tools that they need to assist them in the realization of their own personal and professional development goals. At the same time, MNOs can establish a broader customer base that could result in more mobile phone subscriptions for female end users and eventually generate more revenue for the industry.

In this Insider, we examine the inhibiting factors as well as the conditions that drive interest in mobile phone adoption by women around the globe. Next we highlight examples of the benefits that mobile phones have played a role in producing for women. Then a discussion follows of the potential gains that MNOs and governments will derive from a female citizenry with better and increased mobile phone access. We conclude with case studies of mobile women (mWomen) in action from the regions of Latin America, Africa & the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.

Key Findings:

Providing women with access to mobile phones can present tangible opportunities for mobile network operators, governments and private vendors to support development goals. Direct investment in mWomen projects and programs should reward early supporters in the long run. Although there are a number of challenges such as gender relations, cost of use` and literacy that must be surmounted, the idea of increasing mobile phone adoption among women remains feasible given the varied interests that women have in accessing the technology. Advantages of the development of mWomen can include increased productivity, heightened feelings of personal safety, and even a reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates. As demonstrated through the case studies, the introduction of mobile phone access can have multiple levels of impact in different areas of the lives of the women and girls who have the opportunity to benefit from the technology.

Key Topics Covered:

mWOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A BREAKTHROUGH

A. What hurts and what helps: Mobile phone adoption by women worldwide

B. Perspectives on the benefits experienced by mWomen

C. When women win mobile access, MNOs and governments become winners, too

MARKET DETAIL

CASE STUDY: Palestine/mEmployment/Souktel

CASE STUDY: Tanzania and Kenya/mHealth and mMoney/Fistula Care project

CASE STUDY: India/mEntrepreneurship and mEducation/Hand in Hand Citizen Centres

CASE STUDY: Zimbabwe/ mBanking/Eco-Cash

CONCLUSIONS

Key findings

Recommendations

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/fb6b59/mwomen_a_winwin

Source: Pyramid Research, Inc.

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8 Mobile Trends For Small Businesses To Watch In 2012 - Huffington Post

Bo Fishback: 8 Mobile Trends For Small Businesses To Watch In 2012 HPFB.init();
HuffPost's QuickRead... ShareBox.ad = function (tag_id){if ($(tag_id) == undefined) return; if ($(tag_id).innerHTML != '') return;ad_spec = {"zone_info": "huffpost.smallbusiness;aol=1;business=1;canada-business=1;small-business=1;technology=1;;blogger=bo-fishback;entry_id=1234524;small-business-america=1;facebook=1;foursquare=1;iphone=1;mobile=1;twitter=1;@ybusiness=1;@yscitech=1;@yus-news=1;customers=1;marketing=1;mobile-trends=1;zaarly=1","ord": 1327617651,"tile": 3,"width": 300,"height": 250,"el_id": tag_id + "_js","class_name": "ad_block ad_wide top","type": "iframe"}HuffPoUtil.WEDGJE.write(ad_spec, tag_id);};Loading... HuffPost's QuickRead... Loading... EDITION: U.S.CA CanadaFR FranceUS United StatesUK United KingdomNews and TrendsClint GreenleafSuccess Stories MoreLog in |Sign Out#topnav_margin_btm { margin:0 !important } January 26, 2012 Like 911   CONNECT     FRONT PAGEU.S.UKCANADAFRANCE POLITICS2012 BLOGHUFFPOST HILL2012 ELECTIONSFUNDRACEGREENPOLLSTERSPECULATRONOFF THE BUSBUSINESSSMALL BUSINESSENTERTAINMENTCELEBRITYENTERTAINMENT MUSICRADIOMOVIESTV GAMESCOMEDYTECHTECHTECHCRUNCHJOYSTIQSCIENCEENGADGETAPPLE BLOG MEDIA LIFE & STYLE STYLE NEWS STYLELIST FOOD NEWS WEDDINGS PARENTS GREEN TRAVEL STYLELIST HOME KITCHEN DAILY DIVORCE HUFF/POST50 RELIGION CULTURE ARTSPARENTS TRAVEL COLLEGE RELIGION IMPACT BOOKS EDUCATION COMEDY HEALTHY LIVINGHEALTH AND FITNESSHEALTH NEWSMINDFUL LIVINGSLEEP WOMENHEALTHY LIVINGPARENTS LOCALNEW YORKSAN FRANCISCODENVERMIAMIPATCHCHICAGOLOS ANGELESDCDETROITYELLOW PAGES MOREGOOD NEWSSCIENCEBLACKVOICESSPORTSWORLD GAY VOICESGREENLATINOVOICESCOLLEGECRIMEWEIRD NEWSHIGH SCHOOL SMALL BUSINESS BOARD OF DIRECTORS SUCCESS STORIES 5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW TOOLS ASK ROD NEWS AND TRENDS

Bo FishbackFounder and CEO, Zaarly

GET UPDATES FROM Bo Fishback   Like 17 8 Mobile Trends For Small Businesses To Watch In 2012Posted: 01/26/2012 2:51 pm React Amazing
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A small business can get overwhelmed trying to figure out which social networks or new types of communication should be added to their communication toolbox. First it was Facebook. Then Twitter. Now, things like Foursquare, Instagram and Pinterest are all the rage.

As a business owner myself, I try to take a two-pronged approach, focusing on tools that help us: 1) Improve communication with customers and partners; 2) Grow the business by reaching current or prospective users/customers in a new, better way.

And, that's exactly why small businesses can't ignore mobile opportunities. Over the holidays, the number of tablet/e-reader owners doubled. Very soon, people will access the Internet on their phones more frequently than on their PCs. So what trends do you need to be paying attention to - and acting on - in 2012? Here are eight trends that I foresee impacting small businesses.

1. Explosive Tablet Growth

In 2011, the tablet market experienced explosive growth, thanks to the iPad 2, Kindle Fire, the now-defunct HP Touchpad and a dozen other tablet PCs. Tablet adoption has dwarfed prior technology shifts. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if tablet ownership doubles in 2012.

How will this impact your company? The acceleration of tablet adoption will significantly increase many aspects of business, including content consumption, customer touch points and mobile commerce. Just look at all the apps, publications, websites, social media and other digital content that's readily available with the swipe of a finger. How will you leverage mobile opportunities to cut through the noise and foster more productive relationships with customers and prospects?

2. Mobile Search Explosion

While tablets support our "always on, always connected" way of life, nothing feeds the beast quite like mobile phones. Smartphones help us navigate the day in ways we never could have imagined. Beyond apps, consumers are now searching the web from their phones. In fact, Google sees 4 billion local searches each month, with 61% of those resulting in a purchase. Did you know 55% of consumers report using their mobile device to buy a local service or product?

How will this impact your company? Think about your sales funnel. Every business is a little different, but this much is becoming clear: At some point in that sales cycle, people are turning to the Internet for more information. It's mission-critical for your company to understand the basics of local, mobile search optimization and put these skills to work. By ignoring mobile search, you're willingly sacrificing business to the competitors. And in this hyper-competitive economic climate, that's just not smart business.

3. Mobile Marketing Becomes a Must

Initially, I wasn't so sure about mobile marketing. But, then reality set in. Mobile marketing isn't an option. Ecommerce and online properties are leading the way as early adapters, but we'll see more "bricks and mortar" and traditional businesses take the leap of faith.

How will this impact your company? Start with the low-hanging fruit. For example, optimize your website for mobile viewing, monitor your reputation on Yelp and Angie's List, and leverage customer-acquisition tools like Foursquare and Zaarly.

4. The App Debate Continues

Do you need a mobile app? Or should you invest in a mobile website? Your guess is as good as mine. While "experts" want to declare one or the other's demise, the truth is that no one knows which will prevail. Instead, we may end up in a world of apps, mobile-optimized sites, even apps that incorporate mobile websites (yes, I'm looking at you Facebook). Apps continue to offer superior performance to mobile sites on the whole, but technology is catching up to enable a much better experience on the mobile web.

How will this impact your company? You know your business and your consumer best, so I can't in good conscience tell you if you should opt for a mobile app or a website. But, that's not the point. Consumers are longing for a better mobile experience - and it's your job to deliver. Think about this: Usability Science puts the mobile user experience on par with web usability circa 1999. No wonder customers want more!

5. Less "Black Box." More "Data-Driven."

Mobile advertising and mobile SEO are in their infancy, which means tracking results and outcomes is also relatively primitive. As I've spoken with business owners, agencies and brand marketers who are exploring mobile ad opportunities, I've come to realize that they're (understandably!) confused, which makes it hard to justify ROI. However, the mobile sector knows that the data must improve before businesses will invest major dollars in mobile campaigns.

How will this impact your company? We won't get all the answers in 2012, but expect ad networks to begin to provide more accurate statistics. By opening the proverbial kimono, you'll be better equipped to make data-driven decisions - ensuring you're maximizing your marketing resources.

6. The Maturation of Mobile Payments

Doesn't it feel like we've been predicting mobile payments since Michael Douglas sported an early cell phone in Wall Street? People longed for the days when we could pay through our phones, eliminating the need for wallets and credit cards. While mobile payments are increasing, we're not quite there yet. In 2011, Paypal facilitated $4 billion in mobile payments, up from $750 million in 2010; however, that represents a small fraction of the entire Paypal transaction volume. We're still a long way away from mobile payment ubiquity.

How will this impact your company? You may not need to start accepting mobile payments yet, but it needs to be on your radar. Expect mobile payments to increase -- and customers to begin asking for mobile options - thanks in part to continued pressure from major players like Amex, Visa, Intuit and Google. Plus, startups like Square and Dwolla are forcing the issue. But, don't leave your wallet home quite yet.

7. More Watching... on Mobile

Newsflash: People like to watch video. (If you spend any time on YouTube, you already know that's true!) In fact, YouTube is the second largest search engine, behind only the behemoth, Google. And, we don't mind watching video on our phones' tiny screens. As Hulu, Netflix and YouTube apps continue to provide quality mobile content at low cost, consumers will become even more used to watching video on the go.

How will this impact your company? There's an entire part of our population who turns to YouTube to search (like how many of us automatically start looking on Google). We're all vying for customers' attention. Don't lose out just because you weren't willing to create a few videos. As you begin to develop a content strategy for sites like Facebook, Twitter or a blog, give equal attention to YouTube. (And, in certain industries, give even more attention to video than those other channels!) Not quite ready to start producing videos? That's ok. Instead, look at mobile video advertising opportunities.

8. Facebook + Mobile Advertising

What would an article about 2012 trends be without mentioning Facebook? This year will be huge for the dominant social network, thanks to the impending IPO and the "unlocking" of the mobile platform for advertising. In the not too distant future, we'll have a captivated 300-million-person audience, ready to receive targeted mobile ads.

How will this impact your company? Facebook hasn't yet revealed how they're going to inject advertising into the mobile experience, but this much is certain: If you've built a loyal Facebook following - or hope to do so - Facebook is about to give you access to 300 million people on their phones. That's a number - and a major shift - that you can't ignore.

Bo Fishback is CEO and founder of Zaarly, a real-time mobile marketplace that provides tools to help small businesses generate leads and interact with customers on their phones. For more information or to sign up for free mobile alerts, visit www.zaarly.com/business.

 

Follow Bo Fishback on Twitter:www.twitter.com/bowman

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