Web giants launch mobile apps, services

Web giants Myspace, Amazon and Photobucket last week all released applications or services for mobile consumers.

MySpace has developed an integrated BlackBerry app which promises instant, push-based messaging of social content including features such as real-time status and mood updates, and notification of MySpace events such as friend requests.

The company also announced plans to launch a dedicated community page for BlackBerry users.

Amazon has introduced a new service which will allow users to be sent daily SMS alerts on daily deals. Customers will be able to buy the deal with a simple one-word reply, or navigate to the Amazon website.

Photobucket has launched a mobile photo-sharing application available for download via 13 Verizon Wireless handsets.

Verizon subscribers will be able to link their phones to their on-line photo album, enabling instant photo transmission of any pictures taken via the phones. Users will be charged $2.99 for unlimited photo uploads.

In addition, American Airlines has implemented a program which will enable travellers to receive a two-dimensional barcode which will double as a boarding pass. The service is initially only available on selected flights.