Twitter launches mobile version

Sometimes I´ve thoug three potential dangers of Twitter, and one of them was the hidden costs accrued through the use of SMS (text messaging). Shortly thereafter, I pointed out a lightweight utility that could help you avoid the 'Twitter tax'. Now Twitter has made move to address Twitter's hidden danger number 2, itself.To address the issue, they have launched a mobile version of Twitter that you can access through your cell phone's browser.msaleem_motwitter.jpg(Image from Laughing Squid)

I tested the new service on my BlackBerry 8700g with a T-Mobile data plan. The interface is very clean and simple, and loads quite fast, which will be important for those who were turned off by the web-based service's load times. This will also be a welcome change for those that have been crushed by their Twitter SMS bills because all you have to do to use Twitter mobile on your phone's browser is to have a data plan, which is usually a lump-sum cost.In addition to increasing the ease of use and decreasing the cost of use for the consumer, adding the mobile browser as another way to access Twitter is good for the service too. This gives them yet another potential revenue stream.

technorati tags:MobileSocialNetwork, Mobile2.0

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Twitter taken down in Australia

Twitter Taken Down In Australia

Twitter has reported that they’ll be temporarily suspending their service via SMS in Australia, due to the high operation cost for both Twitter and the end users.

As Twitter sorts out the details on getting a new access number, they’ve stopped making their SMS option available to those guys down under. This is a short term solution, and reminds us that offering a mobile service still means dealing with the phone carriers and service providers, and all the limitations therein. Twitter hasn’t indicated any more specifics for suspending SMS service to Australians, but plans to bring it back–hopefully soon.

Ben Barren, an Austrailian blogger, was none to happy regarding Twitter’s decision, but found that his Twitter service still works in some form and fashion (there are a few layout and design malfunctions). Whether or not this is some sort of loophole and is dependent on the type of mobile service data plan you have is unclear at this point. Needless to say, a frustrated Barren was happy to read Mashable to find out that Bebo now offers a Twitter-like update function that he is still privy to, and can use on the go.

Recommended: Piczo Stuff at Mashcodes!

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