Google integrates QR code technology for 100,000 business owners

December 11, 2009 by Michael Marlatt · Leave a Comment 

Thanks to Google, QR technology is finally getting the long-over-due mobile marketing spotlight it deserves.

Earlier this year, I talked about the creative way in which Editoras Online integrated QR technology and Twitter to create a stunning viral-marketing campaign.  Now, Google fans across the country may soon have an opportunity to interact with QR technology through Google’s latest endeavor called Favorite Places.

What is “Favorite Places”?  Well,  according to Google:

Over 100,000 businesses were identified as Favorite Places. The list was determined based on the popularity of a business’ Local Business Center listing, as determined by how many times Google users looked for more information about a business, requested driving directions to get there, and more. Google users “decided” based on their actions, and we sent the decals.

What exactly does this mean for the average consumer?

The good…

It means that the most popular (i.e., searched) businesses across the U.S. may soon be equipped with a window decal containing a unique bar code, known as a QR code.  So, what’s the big deal?  Well, a major benefit of integrating QR codes into print ads is convenience.  QR technology is all about pointing and scanning, which eliminates the need to type in lengthy URLs.   Bottom line, it’s simply a faster way to deliver relevant content to a mobile device (e.g., reviews, ratings, special promotions, or store coupons if a particular business is offering one).

The bad…

Unlike the ubiquitous nature (and advantage) of using SMS, QR codes reach a limited audience.  For now, users with smart phones that have good quality cameras, and have previously located, downloaded and installed the QR software will get the desired results. There are many free and paid QR readers available on the market.  Some of the newer mobile devices have QR readers installed or bundled as part of another application.

Want to add a QR reader to your mobile device? Here are some common QR readers to consider:

Google’s move towards integrating QR codes is yet another example of how mobile technology can be used in everyday real-life scenarios. Although QR technology may not appear as “hip” as image recogition, it’s still a valuable technology that we should not overlook.

Check out the video below for a demo of “Favorite Places on Google”…

Filed under: Blog Posts, Mobile Apps, Mobile Marketing, Mobile Trends, On the Radar, Video
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Top 10 Internet and Mobile Sites, Handsets

January 2, 2009 by Admin · Leave a Comment 

Seeking Alpha picks this up from The Nielsen Company:

Google, Yahoo and MSN/Windows Live were the most popular websites in 2008; Yahoo Mail, Google Search and Gmail were the top mobile websites; and the Motorola (MOT) RAZR V3 series was the most popular cell-phone handset, according to The Nielsen Company, which released its annual “Top 10″ internet and mobile website rankings for the year.

The article has some interesting stats and tables.

Top 10 Internet and Mobile Sites, Handsets - Seeking Alpha.

Filed under: Asides, Emerging Trends, Mobile 2.0, Mobile Trends, Surveys and Data
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Search On-the-Go: Don’t Type It. Speak it.

November 24, 2008 by Michael Marlatt · 1 Comment 

As we become increasingly mobile, and untether from our desktops, having immediate access to the right information is no longer just a preference but a necessity. Outside of SMS, mobile search has become one of the most popular ways in which we can leverage our mobile devices.

Consider this scenario…

It’s been a tough day. You are running late for your first lunch meeting with that new (key) client. Earlier, you were careful to write down the address and directions. The problem? You left the notes of your meeting location on your office desk, you’re now running behind because of traffic, and you do not have GPS.

I guess now is a good time to panic? Well, rather than dialing 411, you could try free voice-driven search services offered by either Tellme, or Google’s Mobile App.

Tellme.com

“Tellme’s vision is, ‘Say what you want and get it, on any device.” From ‘vision’ to reality, Tellme has already delivered over 2 billion voice searches results for millions of mobile subscribers. See the following video made courtesy of Pocketnowvideo:






Google Mobile App

“Faster search results with fewer keystrokes.” The video below provides an overview of the new Google Mobile App for the iPhone. The App allows mobile users to speak versus typing their search queries.



As a Recruiter, how can voice-driven search help you?

Let’s assume you are out of the office, waiting on an appointment and have a little time to spare. You are sourcing for potential prospects with .NET architecture and SharePoint experience who live in the New York region.

» Step 1: Grab your mobile device and get started. Using either the Tellme or Google’s Mobile App, try speaking your search query as follows: “Resumes, NET Architects, SharePoint, New York.”

» Step 2: Filter the “noise.” Your search results will vary and likely not be exactly what you were seeking the first time you try it. The results may even contain job posts or other unwanted noise. You may need to retry your search query using additional keywords to narrow down what you are seeking. Be specific as possible with your voice-search. Also, speaking clearly, and in some cases - speaking slowly, is often important to ensure the mobile app has successfully captured your exact search query.


Remember, voice-driven search is pretty “hip” technology but it’s still far from perfect. As with all new technology, it will take time for it to evolve and get better. So get comfortable now and think of the possibilities. Mobile is the future…

Filed under: Cloud Computing, Emerging Trends, Mobile 2.0, Virtual Work
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15 Tech Secrets for the Serious Road Warrior

November 22, 2008 by Admin · Leave a Comment 

Your work increasingly demands that you be able to get things done no matter where you are–so the bigger your mobile tech toolbox, the better. In the past, we’ve described how to accomplish more with popular online tools like Google Calendar, with text-messaging utilities like Web-based personal assistant I Want Sandy, and with voice-to-text service Jott; but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. This time we’ll take a closer look at 15 mobile tech tricks and tools that’ll have you working better, smarter, and faster on the go.

15 Tech Secrets for the Serious Road Warrior - Business Center - PC World.

Filed under: Asides, Prototypical, Virtual Work
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Cloud Control

November 10, 2008 by Admin · Leave a Comment 

Microsoft wants more of the software market and is gearing up to outflank Amazon and Google.

Three years into the job as Microsoft’s chief software architect, Raymond Ozzie is on a path to overhaul how the company designs and sells the software that makes its monster profits.

Cloud Control - Forbes.com.

Filed under: Asides, Cloud Computing, On the Radar
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