LightPole API Makes More Content Mobile

LightPole Inc. this week unveiled what it described as an end-to-end mobile content publishing system that allows publishers, bloggers, and other content generators to engage with mobile users.

"The next great revolution in communication will take place on the screens of mobile phones," said Doug Klein, CEO of LightPole, in a statement. The emergence of smart devices, true Web 2.0 services, and a suitable network infrastructure will fuel that revolution, he added.

Using the LightPole Publishing System API, publishers can extend existing content to reach new markets and build communities, providing mobile device users with access to real-time information that's topical and geographically relevant. LightPole said the system supports a variety of business models, including subscriptions, transactions, and advertising. Publishers can configure their offerings to allow readers to post comments, share links, and meet online. No special programming or expensive IT investments are required.

LightPole, which characterizes itself as a mobile application service provider, said eight third-party solutions have already been built on its new system, including content from Yahoo Local that gets delivered to mobile users when they set up their accounts. LightPole said it also intends to develop content under Yahoo's recently announced Fire Eagle service that allows anyone to share their location with online sites and services.

LightPole also said its publishing system's API has been used to integrate local reviews that are the mainstay of the Yelp website. Online mapping service Platial.com also now enables mobile user access through LightPole. LightPole has struck similar deals with interactive bar guide MappyHour.com, and Wi-Fi locator HotSpotr.com.

LightPole said it already supports "hundreds" of different devices, including those from BlackBerry, Motorola, Nokia, and most phones from leading carriers such as AT&T, Sprint/Nextel and T-Mobile, and Verizon.

The company, which also just generated $2 million in its first round of venture funding, said it continue to add support for new phones and content partners.