Phones have come a long way since two cans on a string. We use phones to chat, instant message, post, play and tweet. And as more and more consumers switch to smart phones, there are more and more opportunities for businesses to engage them. Experts predict that mobile phones will be the primary Internet device by 2020, so tailoring your messages to this technology is a 21st-Century must. Here are five ways you can take part in What’s Next in mobile technology:

• Be sure your website is designed for mobile viewing
• Consider asking customers to opt-in to phone text lists for text messages about sales, specials and events
• Invite customers to use photos and video on their phones to show friends their favorite things about your product or service
• Encourage repeat customers by making special offers through location-based check-ins on Gowalla, Foursquare or Facebook Places
• Create tailored solutions for customers with QR codes and custom apps

Certainly the ever-expanding functionality of "the phone" has improved the way we work, play and live, but it's important to remember at its core, the phone, like the wheel, still has a fundamental purpose that often gets taken for granted. It might be easy to upgrade or replace your phone, but nothing can replace the human connection. So don’t let your mobile marketing become just another way to spam consumers; make it a better way to connect with them.