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Forbes launches ad-supported BlackBerry app

April 2, 2000

Forbes.com launched the Forbes.com Mobile Reader for BlackBerry.

The Forbes.com Mobile Reader is powered by Handmark. The application automatically delivers the latest Forbes.com headlines and updates to BlackBerry smartphones in real time.

We know from the usage of our mobile web site that demand for access to content from mobile phones is increasing and by offering a downloadable application we aim to improve the mobile reading experience,” said Jeff Bauer, product and creative director at Forbes Digital, New York.

The Forbes.com Mobile Reader downloads content in the background so that once a user is engaging with the application they’re able to get immediate access to the full content.

“We preserve the site cross-linking and research functionality so that on-the-go executives can now get Forbes insight wherever and whenever they want,” Mr. Bauer said.

Forbes.com is the homepage for the world’s business leaders and a trusted resource for senior business executives, providing them the real-time reporting, commentary, analysis, tools and community.

The application gives users free access to the latest Forbes.com content, including news from the Home Page News and channels including Markets, Business, Personal Finance, Entrepreneurs, Technology, Forbes Life, Opinions and Leadership.

Features include a customizable “My Stocks” tab, a “My Keywords” tab so users can customize content and a “My Feeds” tab to search and add RSS feeds from other sites and blogs.

Full text articles are automatically downloaded for immediate access and are available for offline reading without a wireless connection.

The Forbes.com Mobile Reader ads include image, text and click to call functionality that makes this a unique opportunity for advertisers who want to reach busy executives wherever they may be.

“The most successful executives manage to stay connected while not being chained to their desks. They use their mobile devices largely for email and now we offer them the chance to stay up-to-date on all the content from Forbes,” Mr. Bauer said.

“Devices are becoming more capable of delivering the type of user experience that we envision, be it reading an article, checking the stock market, or checking the weather,” he said. “Advertising opportunities are beginning to get real on mobile platforms as well.

“It’s a way to stay connected with your audience during that increasing portion of their day when they’re checking in from the road.”

Giselle Tsirulnik is senior editor at Luxury Daily, Mobile Commerce Daily and Mobile Marketer. Reach her at giselle@mobilemarketer.com.