Mark Bridge writes:
James’s recent trip down memory lane reminded me of a moment in 1998 when a major mobile phone manufacturer promised phones that ‘gave you wings’. No, not Red Bull. No, not LG.
It was Motorola. “Motorola gives you wings” said the TV commercial. “Wings set you free”.
Back then the mobile message was all about freedom. No need for wires. No need to stay at home waiting for a call. No need to be stuck at your desk.
Here in 2010, the message has changed. Mobiles don’t free us, they enable us. We’re no longer going out and doing stuff because we have a mobile phone. We’re going out and doing stuff ON our mobile phone.
Microsoft’s current advertising campaign for its Windows Phone 7 platform points this out very clearly. Only time will tell whether it’ll help sell more phones. But as we head towards Christmas – traditionally a time for contemplation, relaxation and renewing friendships – Motorola’s message from the 90s is worth bearing in mind.
Because, at the risk of sounding as though I’m delivering a mobile-related Thought for the Day, there isn’t an app for everything.