Mobile isn't just for talking anymore

Forget about simply talking on handsets, a recent study from In-Stat reveals that opportunities are ripe for marketers in the mobile realm. From WiFi to mobile video to the recent release of Apple's new iPhone mobile will soon be impacting the bottom line for advertisers more than ever before.

by Kristina Knight

Mobile marketers are already beginning to see revenue streams from mobile search, local advertisers and in some cases local video. However will be even more opportunities in the future.

Mobile broadcast networks may be one of the most influential newcomers according to the Big Trends Influencing the Global Handset Market: 2008-2012 report. Along with mobile video, broadcast networks offering clips and information exclusively to mobile consumers are a great opportunity for advertisers.

Consumers are also expected to become more interested in mobile WiFi and WiMAX. And finally, the deployment of Apple's new iPhone gave consumers an inkling of what the future may hold for handsets. Touch screens and proximity sensors are two options that will likely become more readily available on other mobile handsets.

“These influences will have a powerful effect on the design of mobile devices, as well as the semiconductors and applications used in them,” says David Chamberlain, In-Stat analyst.