1. BFF Timeout app encourages Filipinos to focus on each other, rather than on their phones
Consumers everywhere find it difficult to resist the lure of their phones and the stream of potentially-exciting-but-probably-just-cat-photo notifications.
In May 2014, McDonald's and Coca-Cola partnered in the Philippines to launch BFF Timeout, an app that rewards users for not using their phones. Once individuals in a group have all opened the app, the timeout begins and points are earned for every moment the phones are left alone. As soon as anyone uses their phone, the timeout ends. Users' scores are ranked on a public leaderboard, and prizes include trips to Japan and Singapore.
An innovation that caters to consumers' changing mobile attitudes!
2. Accident damage appraisal via video link
The ways in which mobile technologies are changing consumer expectations continue to develop, and customer service is no exception.
March 2014 saw Esurance unveil a new app function that speeds up the post-accident process for customers. Customers can open a video chat with an Esurance appraiser, and have the damage assessed via their cellphone camera in real-time, avoiding the need for an in-person vehicle inspection.
A great use of technology that your customers already have to improve their experience!
3. Emoji app adds color to mobile messaging and celebrates African culture
That global mobile penetration continues to increase won't surprise anyone, with total mobile subscriptions now approaching 7 billion (International Telecommunication Union, May 2014). The only surprise is that so little of the mobile experience is reflective of its fastest growing audiences.
One small sign that this is changing: in March 2014 Mauritius-based app company Oju Africa launched a set of African emojis for Android users. Available to use with apps including WhatsApp and Twitter, the range of 56 emojis is designed to represent and celebrate African culture.
A fun and great service that is truly after your customer's heart!
4. Malaysian insurer rewards young drivers for slowing down with free music from local artists
All consumers face gaps between what they want to do (or on some level are aware of the need to do) and what they actually do. After all, we're only human ;) Which is why smart brands are busy creatively applying new technologies to perhaps the oldest commercial incentive: discounts and deals.
One brilliant example: Etiqa MotorTakaful launched a campaign in April 2014 to encourage young drivers to slow down. The Malaysian car insurance brand’s Safe Tracks mobile app uses a cellphone’s GPS and accelerator to detect the vehicle’s speed and the local speed limit. By adhering to the speed limit, drivers can collect Safe Mileage points, enabling them to unlock free music, including exclusive tracks from local indie musicians.
And while even this example could be improved, perhaps by offering drivers more exciting and status-boosting gig tickets instead, the underlying approach is a compelling (and easily replicable) one.
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