Focus

The next big thing

Despite all the hyperbole and activity mobile social computing generates, there is plenty of work still to be done to maximize the value proposition. Network operators, handset manufacturers and online services need to become more open and less protectionist with regard to the technologies they promote.

The consumer contact base is currently spread over multiple phones, platforms and services, with limited interoperability. A move towards open standards would ensure that consumers get access to their social address book no matter which network they use, and would further encourage growth. Vodafone, for one, has been dipping its toes in the waters of interoperability with the 360 initiative, which allows non-Vodafone customers to access some of their social networks via their cellphones.

Ultimately, if the convergence of the social web and mobile communications continues at the current rate, then cellphones will indeed become the center of the social computing world.

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* About the Author | Davey Winder

A freelance technology journalist for nearly 20 years, Davey won the 2008 Information Security Journalist of the Year award. He is Contributing Editor of PC Pro magazine.