Top 10 Hot Mobile Trends for 2011

Updated: October 28, 2010

These are the top 10 trends we can expect to see in the mobile realm for 2011:

1. Android vs. iPhone showdown - This summer, the Android surpassed the iPhone in terms of market share, with Droids taking 27% of the market and iPhones taking 23%. In 2011, there are substantiated rumors saying that Verizon will be getting the iPhone, which may help to increase Apple's market share. Additionally, the Droid will continue to see improvements and a growing number of apps in their marketplace (one of the main arguments of iPhone proponents). 2011 looks to be the key year that will determine which operating system reigns supreme.
2. Mobile advertising spike - As more and more consumers begin to access the web through their smartphones, versus home or work computers, we're going to see more opportunities for advertising in these mediums. Due to the size and constraints of mobile, this advertising has to be simpler and more concise, so marketers need to change their strategies compared to standard digital placements. 2011 is looking like a landmark year for mobile advertising.
3. Mobile SEO - The importance of having a mobile site is becoming more substantial, as growing numbers of consumers with different levels of web-enabled phones begin accessing sites. Business owners need to be aware that mobile browsers have different algorithms than traditional browsers, so SEO efforts need to be adjusted accordingly. 2011 is a year that will demonstrate the difference between those who adopt mobile SEO practices and those who fail to meet the new challenge.
4. Touchscreen website development - Touchscreens offer a different user experience than regular computers that utilize mouses, and their popularity is skyrocketing. For website developers, this means it's time to consider how sites can best be developed to meet the needs of consumers who are navigating with their fingertips. In 2011, look for an increased focus on the schematics and usability of a website to be geared towards a touchscreen functionality.
5. Location-based apps -Increasing numbers of applications and sites are relying on location-based functionalities to aid consumers. From Yelp's check-ins, to Facebook's places, there are growing numbers of opportunities for location-based communication and promotion of local businesses. Expect to see more websites & smartphone applications that take advantage of location-based technology.
6. Free wi-fi - Many communities are enacting free wi-fi programs. Miami Beach and Times Square in NYC have put these into effect. As wi-fi access grows nationally, more and more consumers are likely to use their devices and computers on the go, and in public places. Also, this means more consumers are likely to get online, since the cost will be significantly lower.
7. Location-based social networks - With the rise of sites like Foursquare and now Scvngr, location-based social is continuing to rise in popularity at a rapid rate. Foursquare recently reached 3 million users, and SCVNGR just passed the 500,000 user mark. These networks designed around location are going to see a bigger push in 2011, and we're likely to see additional social sites hit the market.
8. Increase in mobile video viewing - By the end of this year, the number of mobile video viewers is expected to hit 23.9 million, and those numbers are set to double by 2013, according to eMarketer. Addressing video as a function of mobile, versus traditional desktops, is something marketers have to consider, especially when looking at new advertising opportunities. As this number spikes in 2011, there will be many additional ways to capitalize on this growing market.
9. Consolidation of technology - As smartphones and tablet computers are able to do more and more, expect to see a decline in the use of more specific technology - GPS units, mp3 players, cameras, etc. Many smartphones serve to fill all these needs, so consumers no longer need to purchase additional devices. The same applies to tablet computers, which can serve as e-readers, making Kindles and Nooks less necessary.
10. Mobile to mobile technology - With the iPhone 4's introduction of Face Time video calling, a new era was born in terms of communicating via mobile devices. Smartphone video calling is expected to reach 29 million users by 2015. The Skype app allows video calling on all Android smartphones, and this market is likely to see substantial growth in 2011 thanks to these new technologies.