Apisphere, BuzzHub partner on location-based mobile ad platform

By Gabrielle Kalika

July 9, 2008

Advertising a buzz

Apisphere and advertising network BuzzHub partnered to deliver a location-based interactive delivery platform for mobile.

Prior to this partnership, BuzzHub subscribers accessed promotional offers and advertisements at kiosks set up in malls, movie theatres and festivals. However, subscribers will now receive offers on their mobile devices based on geographic proximity to the retailers, as well as the interests and preferences of the mobile subscriber.

“With this strategic partnership BuzzHub will be able to elevate the level of service it offers retailers and consumers,” said John Armstrong, vice president of marketing at Apisphere, Berkeley, CA.

“Targeted coupons and special offers can now automatically be sent to consumer mobile devices based on the subscriber’s location and preferences," he said. "This will ensure consumers are only receiving relevant offers, and will significantly reduce, if not totally eliminate, the spam factor.”

Apisphere will use its Geo-Enabled Mobility platform which delivers mobile content, such as applications and messaging, triggered to launch when users enter specified locations.

The location-awareness services will work with BuzzHub’s kiosk-based ad serving platform to deliver the ads to mobile devices.

Also, the location-awareness platform allows real-time location information to be incorporated into software applications for mobile devices. The platform is device- and network-agnostic, making it potentially accessible to greater numbers of mobile consumers.

In addition, BuzzHub will be able to reach subscribers without smartphones and send targeted coupons and sale flyers to their mobile devices based on their location.

BuzzHub has kiosks positioned at six locations and offers a new media delivery service that enables advertisers to place ads online to reach targeted consumers in malls and other public venues through an interactive network of various mobile devices.

“This partnership is an opportunity for BuzzHub to extend its relationships with retailers and consumers beyond touch screens to create a more user-friendly environment,” said Mr. Armstrong.

“Targeting promotional offers and ads based on a consumer’s location and preferences will make the information more valuable to both the receiver and the generator,” he said.