WiFi ad network another option for mobile marketers

A new option in the mobile space should give marketers another way to engage with consumers on the go. From Cloud Nine Media, the platform allows advertisers to serve an ad before a mobile user logs on to a WiFi hotspot.

by Kristina Knight

The platform serves a high-impact ad to consumers before they hook into unlimited, free WiFi Internet access. Campaigns have been launched in 9 of the top 50 US airports include Las Vegas, Tacoma and Charlotte.

"Free WiFi is something everybody appreciates," said Cloud Nine co-founder Sebastian Tonkin. "The beauty of this model is that advertisers can become part of that positive experience and take advantage of a captive, full screen format at the same time. Users get free WiFi, venues offset their costs, and advertisers get guaranteed engagement. In other words, everybody wins."

One interesting way the platform is being utilized? To track Santa. Google Earth and NORAD have teamed up to let people know where the red-suited man is right up to Christmas Day. Other early adopters of the platform include Old Spice, smartUSA and Air Lingus.

As more smartphones are adopted and as more people work outside the office, the need to be connected through mobile devices has increased. Many will connect through 3 or 4G but those data plans can be costly, which leaves many opting for free access, especially when they'll need to do more than download a single email. WiFi hotspots enable these users to stay connected and control their costs as well.

Through the platform:

• Ads are served full-screen, giving the marketer 100% share of voice
• Ads can include :15 or :30 video options
• Hotspots are offered in brand-safe locations
• Ads can be targeted according to venue, geography or device type

Tags: Cloud Nine Media, mobile ads, mobile marketing, wi-fi networks, wifi ad network, wifi ads