Sources have informed Engadget that Google is gearing up to launch a new mobile service that compensates users if they allow the company to monitor their mobile behavior. Internally, the project is referred to as "Mobile Meter," and will monitor both app usage and browsing habits, and send that data back to Google. The company plans to offer this service to both Android and Apple iOS device owners.
According to the report, this monitoring will be "deeper" than the passive method Google already uses on Android. This program will also be completely voluntary: participants will be required to opt in before joining. Sources aren't sure what app will be offered and web metrics Google intends to track with Mobile Meter. Naturally, Google refuses to comment on rumors and speculations.
Sources claim that Google intends to anonymize all of the information it collects from the participants to avoid any privacy issues. The company is presumably launching this program to evaluate the different habits of Android and iOS device owners, and to get a better insight on Apple's iOS ecosystem. So far there's no word on when this program will launch, if at all.
Market researcher Neilson reportedly does something similar on Android with this app listed on Google Play. "When you download the Nielsen Mobile App, you'll not only be contributing to our valuable research on mobile trends, but you will also earn monthly points that you can convert into rewards of your choice. The app runs silently in the background and does not affect battery life," reads the listing.
The software supposedly measures the normal activity of the user's phone, tablet or other mobile device. The listing indicates that users can earn points worth up to $50 per year that can be spent on the Neilson Mobile Rewards online shop. Participants can purchase Amazon gift cards, DVD players, HDTVs and more.
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