It's Cyber Monday, everyone! And this year, the online holiday retail boon seems to be spreading out over the entire holiday season, as consumers become more comfortable making their purchases online. Research from comScore predicts an 11% increase in online retail sales for November and December, compared with a 4% rise last year.
The Wall Street Journal reports in "For Cyber Shoppers, Gadgets Look Hot" that the holiday season is a boon for mobile gadgets. The article also suggests that Apple will be a big winner this season, with both iPads, iPhones, and iPods on lots of holiday wish lists. "A recent survey by ChangeWave Research found that 9% of holiday shoppers plan to buy an iPad in the next 90 days."
Smartphones are also a hot item among consumers as productivity apps and games attract more users to devices like the iPhone and Android devices. Many consumers are opting for these multi-purpose devices over single-purpose ones like GPS and mobile gaming devices. And as more consumers are using these mobile devices for internet activity, data usage has surpassed voice calls on mobile carriers.
So what does this all mean for online video?
- Along with discount promotions and free shipping offers, retailers already using video for ecommerce will have an advantage in converting Cyber Monday shoppers with product videos that demonstrate potential gifts. Video has also been proven to increase the average order value in shopping carts. Check out Brightcove's V-Commerce whitepaper for more benefits of video for online retail.
- All those smartphones, iPods, and tablets means that the market for mobile video continues to grow. Thankfully, Brightcove already makes it easy to deliver mobile video to both Flash and HTML5 video environments and allows you to reach audiences on every device. Learn more about Brightcove's support for HTML5 Video and Mobile Devices.
Sign up and get an Apple Gift in time for the holidays
Maybe you are in the market for an iPad or iPod Touch on this Cyber Monday? When you activate a new Brightcove account before November 30*, you can receive an Apple iPad, iPod Touch, or Apple Gift Certificate for opening your account. Make that special person on your shopping list happy! Activate your account today and receive your device in time for the holidays.
*Terms & Conditions apply. Please see the full rules for eligibility.