The phablet is likely to become even more popular in 2015. Media companies need to think about what this means for delivering news, keeping in mind that time sensitivity is still essential.
In 2014, the discussion about which way mobile journalism will move is re-opened. The first half of the year it seemed to be clear that the smartphones (mainly 4.7-inch displays) would have killed the tablet.
But with the massive new phablets in end of Q3 2014, companies like Samsung (Note 4), Apple (iPhone 6 plus), or Motorola (Moto X) pushed the market increase dramatically. IDC and Gartner are sure: The phablet will dominate the mobile increase for the next three years.
What does this mean for digital, mobile journalism?
It will shrink the difference between online and mobile layout possibilities to stage the content. On phablets with high resolution displays, it is possible to establish more than one column. Larger pictures and split screens are possible. And if the user turns the device in landscape view, a new television display is enabled.
As we discussed earlier on this blog, apps are the best way to connect users for a lifetime. And via apps, you have the possibility to define several, individual styles for different screen sizes.
If you use the universal app approach, you are able to optimise your layout for phablets. But be aware: You first have to think about the use cases and the usability before developing a layout!
Regarding the type of content, all mobile devices have the same general use case: time sensitiveness for news and analysis. Take the chance to stage this on a larger screen and make the news and background as an event for all senses: use video, audio, and picture galleries.