How do you define "mobile?"
How does your news organization define "mobile?"
Does that mean everything beyond desktop computers? Does that just mean iPhones and iPads?
Here's our current definition of "mobile." We exclude tablets because we view them as a different channel with unique usage. Let me know what you think in the comments.
What is mobile?
A new media channel. Powered by users who are:
- Connecting at various times from various locations
- Using smartphones and feature phones
- Seeking information via messaging, the mobile web and mobile apps
- Mobile does not include tablets.
The chart below explains the differences between the three digital channels (mobile, tablets, desktop).
|
|
MOBILE |
TABLET |
DESKTOP |
|
Used for? |
● Being alerted to breaking news ● Quickly answering questions
|
● Being entertained ● Learning |
● Browsing through information ● Answering deeper questions |
|
Portable? |
Extremely |
Somewhat |
No |
|
Connected to the web? |
Always |
Almost always |
Sometimes |
|
Startup speed? |
Extremely fast |
Fast |
Slow |
|
Carried? |
Always. In a purse or pocket. |
Sometimes. In a bag. |
No |
|
Used? |
All the time |
Mostly in the early morning, late at night and on weekends |
During normal work hours. Occasionally at home. |
|
Used by? |
One person |
Usually one person, sometimes shared |
Usually shared by a few people |
This figure shows the times various channels are used by audiences:
