Mobile: Ad Channel of the Future

It seems that with the advent and ever growing popularity of the iPhone, wireless phone providers are scrambling to keep pace with consumer's new found interest in mobile internet.

According to recent research released by The Kelsey Group 44.7% of US mobile users say mobile phones with better internet capabilities will be a key factor in their next phone purchase decision. This is large in part due to the convenience of using maps and performing local searches. The Study notes, in the past 6 months 9.8% of respondents had used their mobile phones to conduct internet searches of products and services in their local area.

Growth for mobile search advertising are expected to grow from $33.2 million this year to $14. billion over the course of the next 5 years - though many are skeptical of the predicted 112% annual growth rate. However according to BPL Mobile executives, mobile advertising with its ability for high "reach and relevance" is rapidly attracting ad dollars.