Mobile trends to watch in 2017

More smartphones, more ways to pay for goods and services, more mobile. Merchants must gear up for mobile in the new year, according to two experts. Here's why:

by Kristina Knight

First, more device diversification

"Diversification of devices and an increased focus on user-based targeting: IoT and wearable devices are continuing to grow out of a niche and into the norm. As the playing field of devices widens, it is imperative for advertisers to have a grasp on targeting and measuring users, not channels or devices, to achieve success," said Ted Dhanik, CEO & Co-Founder, engage:BDR. "Focus on cord-cutters: Demand is already high for smart TV inventory, and we expect the space to mature in 2017 to better support it. Advertising opportunities for existing content will mature, but we expect content and applications to grow as well."

Second, look for performance video to soar

"Mobile is obviously going to evolve further in 2017, taking up a bigger share of the market with performance video leading the charge. This format is finding more and more applications in mobile, while offering unparalleled freedom in terms of forming brand identity and illustrating the product's benefits," said Dmitry Atamanyuk, CEO, GDM Group. "SmartLink tech is sure to see more widespread use and improvement, at some point becoming a staple element for all platforms as optimization mechanisms get automated further. Mobile engagement marketing is likely to become more demanding in 2017, because the market is aware of the levels of traffic quality possible with new targeting solutions, and user retention is already a major factor in determining the success of mobile campaigns."

Tags: engage:BDR, GDM Group, m:commerce, mobile commerce, mobile marketing, mobile trends