What is a Thumbcast?

Thumbcasting is a method of sending content such as audio, video, photos, and text to a cell phone or other mobile device via SMS, WAP push, or some other method of digital delivery.

The term thumbcast was first used on March 15, 2007 by 80108 Media on their website. The referred to their subscription channels that were available via SMS as "thumbcasts".

On April 9, 2007, the Boston Globe ran a story on thumbcasts called "Snippets of news, via cellphone". The story opened with the line, "Thumbcasts are coming to Boston." The story went on to describe how 80108 Media was sending out text messages that contained music reviews, event alerts, and news snippets delivered from various thumbcasters.

Thumbcasts have actually been around for years, they just never had a specific term for them. Most people who own a cell phone have experienced some form of thumbcasting. Whether they got a message announcing an upcoming party at a club, or they received a news update from their cellphone provider, they essentially got a thumbcast.

Many companies are now using thumbcasting as a way to make announcements to their customers. Most cellular providers send out messages that update users about new features. These are a form of thumbcast.

A phonecast is an audio or video clip that is specifically designed for broadcast via mobile telephones. These phonecasts could be live shows, or they might be pre-recorded streaming media.

Podcasts are usually downloaded to a computer, iPod, or MP3 player. Phonecasts are similar, but downloaded to a mobile phone.

Phonecasting is the process by which phonecasters send out their content to cellphones via wireless providers.

Thumbcasting and phonecasting can be used in many ways.

1. Announcing events.
2. Sending fun content.
3. Providing educational content.
4. Accouncing promotions.
5. Sending breaking news alerts.
6. Sending severe weather alerts.

Creative thumbcasters and phonecasters are always thinking of new ways to use these new forms of media.