An article in Mediapost quotes a Google study finding that smart phone users are entering longer queries into mobile search engines than their non-smart (dumb?) phone counterparts.
The results suggest that iPhone searches mimic computer-based search behavior in terms of query length — about three words per query for computer and iPhone queries, as opposed to 2.5 words per query for conventional cell phones.
I am a Blackberry Storm user, so I can relate to the iPhone crowd’s enthusiasm for mobile searching. However, my newest fascination is 1-800-GOOG-411, a free 411 service offered by Google. It is much safer while driving and the results have been accurate and reliable.
As a 411 service, it only powers business searches. It’s great for finding a pizza place or a nearby hotel while traveling, but I would like to see a general web search equivalent so that I can request search results for a person, place, or company without having to take my eyes off the road while driving.
Tips for Advertisers and Businesses
Do your customers or prospective customers fit the profile for smart phone users? If so, you should consider the following ways to improve your mobile visibility:
- Create a mobile version of your website (or at least your company/product/service info and contact details) for mobile web users.
- Claim and update your listings in the search engines’ local search properties: Google Local Business Center, Yahoo Local, MSN/Live Search Maps.
- Include your business address in your website template. Include a local phone number and a zip code to maximize your site’s relevance to a particular location.
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