Can you smell me now?
Multimedia messaging could soon become multi-sensory. A German syndicate including a sensory analysis and marketing consultancy and an interactive value-added services specialist have filed for a patent for technology that allows users to send scents with their MMS messages to properly equipped cellphones. The process requires a mobile scent phone and an SD smartcard-sized chip which provides a variety of scents. The scent chip is in development. Users will be able to accept or reject scent messages. The companies said applications of the technology could range from sweet-smelling MMS greetings to branded advertising samples for perfume manufacturers and even scent-infused mobile games.
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A ringtone and a side of fries
Virgin Mobile USA, Burger King and Warner Music Group have teamed up to offer ringtones to Virgin Mobile USA users for $1 each. The Virgin Mobile Ringtone Value Menu powered by Burger King allows Virgin Mobile USA customers to chose from a list of options on the VirginXL WAP deck or at the carrier’s Web site. Artists include Buckcherry, Casa De Leones, Danity Kane, Estell, War, Group 1 Crew, James Otto, Plies and more. Burger King will support marketing efforts for the promotion with sponsorship of WAP banner ads and SMS blasts to Virgin Mobile USA subscribers.
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First-class flight info
WorldMate Inc., which provides mobile travel services for frequent fliers, introduced a flight alert service for Nokia S60 devices. The service allows users to receive real-time updates on their phone when flights are cancelled or delayed. The service also allows users to check updated flight schedules when they need to re-book their travel arrangements. To access the service, customers enter their flight numbers directly into the mobile application. The alerts are considered a premium service and cost $5 per month or $50 per year. The service also includes free content such as weather information, a currency converter, world clocks and world maps.
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