Vindigo Launches "Instant Offers" Program

Vindigo , a developer of personal navigation software for handheld devices running the Palm, Inc. operating system announced Monday a new mobile advertising campaign targeting its New York City users.

During the ten-week “Vindigo Instant Offers” program which began on August 1, users of Vindigos navigation service in New York City will receive offers from national and local merchants on their handheld devices. Vindigo says its merchant offers, which range from a 15 percent discount on DVDs to a pizza give-away, will be posted in the Vindigo channels called Eat, Shop, and Play. Users can redeem the offers by showing their Vindigo service to the sponsoring merchant.

Such programs, which appeal to users of handheld devices while they are seeking related information, are thought to be one of the most powerful ways to advertise using mobile technology. This approach is one of many being tried as interactive advertisers seek to exploit the growing handheld and wireless market.

“Every time a consumer uses Vindigo, he or she is planning a purchase and looking for a store or restaurant or movie theater nearby,” said Jason Devitt, chief executive officer of Vindigo.

“Consumers are delighted to get an offer of a discount or promotion right then and there, and for merchants, its the most targeted advertising opportunity you can imagine.”

Some of the advertisers participating in the Vindigo “Instant Offers” trials in New York include: XandoCosi. SHOP Crunch Fitness, Eastern Mountain Sports, HMV, Kenjo Watches, and Shakespeare & Co. PLAY Art Bar, BLADES Board & Skate, Chicago Blues, Fez at Time Cafe, Gotham Bike Shop and Toga Bike Shop, and Temple Bar.