Mobile Phones & the Internet
Smartphones have really taken off in ways that many people probably would have never expected. The numbers of smartphone users are growing daily, and the mobile web has a lot to do with this.
The concept of mobile phones is a lot different than it has ever been before. People now rely on their phones to connect to the internet. People can look up a phone number and actually make a call without writing down a number. Sites like Anywho, for example, allow users to lookup a number for a business or residential area. When the site yields search results the numbers show as hyperlinks. Users can click on the number and get the option to dial without manually entering the number.
The majority of smartphone owners are also using the mobile web to pay bills and view their statements. This is much more convenient than the desktop because of the apps. Lots of mobile apps are allowing customers to log in without the hassle of actually seeing a full sized website. They are using apps to see the balances, make payments, and check statements. People that have banking apps will often transfer funds or check their balances daily.
Smartphones are also allowing users to check their email and reply much sooner. This actually allows employees to maximize their time. It increases productivity, and this is a clear sign that more companies will move in this direction. Some companies have already taken the necessary steps. They have given their employees smart phones to communicate. Mobile apps that allow texting and email communication are much cheaper than paying for unlimited minutes.
The rise of smartphones has even allowed consumers to toss some of their other devices. The travel and navigation apps, for example, are allowing a lot of people to condense their portable devices. Travelers no longer have to ride with an assortment of devices. Smartphone mobile web access has allowed many people to simply go to the web to view directions.
The mobile web is beloved by many because there has been an increase in hot spots. The average person that lives in the city can go to parks, libraries, and restaurants for a free Wi-Fi hot spot. This allows people to get online without using any of their data plan package. Users may get on to search for information or check out surrounding areas for entertainment while they eat. It's easy, for example, to get online on find movie show times from a smartphone. People are doing things like this because the 3G and 4G networks have made mobile surfing practical.
Lots of websites are even changing their site design to support mobile devices. This has become the challenge for many developers, but they are working through it. The mobile content that is on the web is growing. A lot of the sites are making drop down and text boxes that may navigation much easier. This is another clear sign that the mobile web is still rising in popularity.
Mobile sites from X-Press (best viewed from smartphone)
X-Press Digital
Plastic Card Services
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