Mobile Web
Creating web applications that deliver realtime data to smartphones.
The original Newton PDA’s from Apple in 1989 were conceived as extensions of the personal computer. Research around 1996 by the founders of Palm showed that consumers didn’t want a mobile PC, but an electronic organizer. The first of generation smart phones in 2002 from RIM improved organizers by combining a mobile phone and email with calendar synchronization. After that, not much changed until the iPhone.
The attraction of handsets now extends well beyond mobile phones and organizers for business people. They are lifestyle devices for consumers across all demographics. They have larger, clearer, touchscreen displays. They have improved data connectivity and battery life. They have faster processors and more memory. The smartphone has evolved from an expensive business organizer to an affordable mass market product offering convenience and entertainment to any audience.
Smartphones are no longer used like the BlackBerry, just for business, but rather for discretionary activities like listening to music, watching videos, playing games, or sending text messages. Because of the iPhone, smartphones have crossed the chasm from a business device to a consumer device. Applications and advertising are no longer limited to six figure WAP decks controlled by wireless carriers. The field is open to deploy 3G and WIFI enabled web applications to consumers and workers worldwide.
- Higher bandwidth 3G and wireless hotspots provide a more satisfying mobile experience.
- Simpler data pricing models make the mobile web affordable to more consumers and businesses.
- Every enterprise can deploy smart phone applications to improve their marketing or efficiency.
