I’m on the train down to SD from OC as I write. I don’t know why more people don’t use this mode of transportation, it’s convenient, quick, comfortable and has power outlets for road warriors. Anyhow, I’m monitoring the various news feeds and short messages being flung around about the mobile convention (CTIA) this very second. The conference starts tomorrow, but the pre-show events are in full swing. (Anyone know what happened with the Verizon / Google teleconference this morning?)
The big sentiment from many who are attending the panel on mobile marketing and adverting is that the panel hates iPhone but loves SMS! I can’t wait to dig deeper into this and find out what’s really going on – come on train, move faster!
Many of us who have been in mobile for several years now understand the power of SMS and how it can be a driver to deeper engagements such as iPhone apps, WAP sites, Social Media sharing, etc. The power of SMS is in its simplicity and reach; unless you’re sportin’ a Motorola Star Tac from ‘99 your phone as the ability to send and receive SMS message! The reach with iPhone is much smaller of course, but the consumers ability to interact on a more meaningful level is high. The fun thing about SMS is that it’s a technically simple channel, but when injected with a high dose of creativity it can be very cool (yes, we can start the engine of a car via SMS!).
CTIA here I come!