If Facebook Were to Develop Their Own Cell Phone, How it Would it Change Mobile Marketing?

Facebook went live in 2004.  In just over six years, it has become the largest social networking site in the world and is now so huge, that some are labeling it a bona fide threat to Google’s web dominance.  Thanks to a wide variety of apps, the Facebook experience can be enjoyed almost in its entirety right from the consumer’s mobile phone.  That raises the question: what if Facebook had its own cell phone?  Would it be a success and if so, how would it impact mobile marketing?  Let’s peer into our crystal ball for some potential answers. 

There is no way anyone can deny Facebook’s dominance or potential as a powerful marketing tool.  Its massive popularity has companies big and small rushing to devise social media marketing strategies in hopes of tapping into its enormous base of users.  For those who want to engage their audience and make the maximum impact, Facebook has a number of built-in tools, as well as paid advertising options.  Despite their highly targeted nature, the jury is still out on the effectiveness of Facebook ads.  Some marketers have been reluctant after hearing stories of how others invested thousands only to come out with nothing to show for it.  This could all change with a Facebook cell phone.  Its advertising model might very well be the central focus of the mobile platform, and if it can maintain the existing attribute of at least piquing consumer interest without being intrusive, Facebook ads could eventually become the talk of the mobile marketing business.

While still in its infancy, mobile marketing has long been hailed by many as the next big thing in marketing.  Some even say that time is now as statistics show that a large number of consumers have cell phones.  These phones do far more than make and accept calls, as many are capable of surfing the web, pulling up directions and performing various other functions through mobile applications.  Should Facebook come out with its own phone, one could assume that it instantly becomes a player in the mobile marketing world.  With more than 100 million mobile users already, how could it not?  Whether it is providing marketing services or being a platform targeted by marketers, Facebook will likely have a major influence on the industry.

If Facebook ever decided to launch its own cell phone, it could be a move so huge, that it shapes the entire mobile marketing world.  This segment is currently a small fish in a huge pond when compared to what has become traditional digital marketing.  Businesses are just beginning to test the waters, and even fewer agencies are on the market to provide the service.  A cell phone would attract developers, advertising agencies, and marketers who all want to partner with Facebook and capitalize on the mobile trend.  It could be very huge indeed.       

No one knows if Facebook would ever truly come out with its own cell phone.  After all, it would have some pretty heavy competition in Nokia and Apple, two companies that have revolutionized the smartphone market.  In order to make an impact with consumers, it would need to develop a device that does everything an iPhone does and probably much more.  With that said, the social media giant has made a definite impact on the entire internet, so a Facebook cell phone may not come as a shock at all.