September
2008
Mobile Journalism (MOJO)0
The other week sitting in Melbourne traffic (worse then going through a painful family gathering), I decided to be constructive with my time and log onto facebook via my mobile phone.
A concept that most would be well accustomed too but for one like me who lacks the techno savvy gene it was quite an achievement. Being so time conscious, I hate not being productive, so I decided to make use of mobile internet. The problem was three weeks later I received a phone bill that I could not comprehend. Where am I going with this?
I am appalled at the cost of mobile internet and therefore understand the underdevelopment of mobile journalists (mojo’s) within Australia. Unlike Europe our internet prices along with the quality is disgraceful.
As stated by Steven Quinn, “In the US the fee for unlimited data is about $70 a month, much the same in Europe, cheaper in Africa.” Australia is yet to develop such a system.
Mobile internet has become a way forward for journalists to provide up to date information ASAP. Reuters one of the main distributors of news equip their journalists with mojo toolkits. NRK (Norway’s national broadcast) also follow along the same line.
We are a society that demand convenience, have zero patience and want accessible but affordable technology. With the release of the iphone, I am surprised the Australian market is yet to provide a suitable mobile internet plan.
