The days of pulling a business card out of one's shirt pocket and simply handing it to a potential client may soon be but a memory. Developers are now rolling out electronic versions that will exchange contact information via handheld units such as cell phones, PDA's and other devices or across the web.
Device Dependent Units
These contact information sharing solutions are dependent upon both users having the same device and being close enough to touch the devices together.
iPhone "Bump", exclusively for the iPhone or iPod Touch, allows two iPhone users to "bump" hands while holding their units and to automatically exchange contact information between the two devices.
The app is available free on iTunes or find out more on the Bump Technologies website.
Poken is a small device available in a number of different designs. Similar to the iPhone app, Poken allows users to touch the attached "hand" of the device with that of another Poken owner and automatically exchange the contact and other information, previously uploaded via the PokenHUB website. This can include photos, contact information, and any number of social networking profiles and addresses. The information can then be downloaded to a computer by attaching the Poken via its built in USB connector. Contacts will be automatically downloaded and organized by the PokenHUB.
The Poken is $19.95 and is available via their website at DoYouPoken.com
Web Based Solutions
There are web based solutions, as well, which anyone can use, on any device, or directly from the web.
Contxts allows a user to enter a profile, via their website. A potential contact then sends a simple, SMS text message containing the target Contxts user name to 50500. Moments later, a return text will be received with that person's contact info included. Contxt members can choose to send their own contact information to others, as well.
The service is free via their website at Contxts.com
twtBizCard automatically transmits an electronic business card (created free, online at their website) via Twitter, simply by adding the “#twtbizcard” hashtag to a standard Twitter @reply. Contact information will only go to the Twitter user to whom the reply is sent, on Twitter, not to an entire network of followers.
More information can be found at TwtBizCard.com
The question of whether or not these new technologies will replace traditional business cards is up for debate. Those in more outlying rural areas may find themselves with no network coverage at the precise moment they need it most - when someone says, "How can I contact you?" However, its certain that, as an addition to traditional methods, these applications will make it easier than ever to publicize and/or share contact information. Still, it might be advantageous to keep a supply of the old, stand-by, paper cards on hand, for emergencies. For more information on the technology behind these and similar mobile applications, particularly for the iPhone, read The Best Free iPhone Apps by Amanda Dupuis on Suite101.com or consult the Apple website.
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