No more spam ads in your mobile phone

The Science Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation in the U.S. recently introduced a legislation to keep everyone’s mobile phone free from spam text messages and ads. It’s called the SMASH Act (Stop M-Spam Abuse as a Sales industry Habit Act) and it will expand the role of National Do Not Call Registry to text messages and mobile ads as well.

From now on, you can register your mobile number in the registry and you can stay away not only from telemarketing calls, but also from spam mobile ads.

I think this legislation is a lot more significant to mobile users than what it appears to be. The reason is simple. Even people who like the concept of mobile advertising, like yours truly for example, can’t stand spam ads. I’ve always stated that one should get mobile ads only if he wants to, not because he has to. So, this legislation will go a long way in making a lot of mobile users breathe a sigh of relief.

Categories: Cell Phone Advertising, All things mobile phones.

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Debunking the myths about mobile advertising - III

When I first read this, I thought of writing a line-by-line rebuttal. But then, I saw no need for that. So, I’ll just highlight a few points and express my views on that. First of all, I wanna say that I respect everyone’s point of view. You’ve got your point of view, your own opinions, your take on certain issues, and so on. But Mike, I have a little problem with your write-up. That is, you went on to ‘assume’ certain things about mobile advertising. Let me explain.

‘It audibly interrupts your life like telemarketing.‘

Well; just like you have a DND (Do Not Disturb) option for telemarketing, you have an option for mobile adverts too. You are presented with a choice. You can either opt in to mobile ads or just say ‘no thanks.’ So, there is no question of mobile ads interrupting your life.

‘But you know that once the floodgates open, and the spam comes rushing in, everyone will hate mobile advertising.‘

Well; It may happen. But then, it may not. Why? Just check out - exhibit A and exhibit B. Perhaps the largest network carrier in the world, China Mobile, learnt a lesson the hard way regarding mobile spam. That, my friend, should reassure folks like you that advertisers and carriers can’t get away with mobile spam. There will be severe repercussions to face.

‘Some marketers are talking about respecting the privacy of users and putting consumer in control of what they get and when. Do you find that reassuring? I don’t.‘

Why do you think so?

‘And support any movement or legislation that seeks to block or criminalize mobile advertising.’

Don’t you think it’s kind of a knee-jerk reaction?

Categories: Cell Phone Advertising, Rant.

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