Qantas taps into iPhone popularity with tailored website

Stephen Withers
Tuesday, 19 August 2008 11:24

Your IT - Mobility

Qantas has launched a version of its web site that has been tailored to suit iPhone 3G, even though Apple's mobile phone features a full browser. Versions for other handsets such as BlackBerry have been foreshadowed.

Experience in established iPhone markets such as the US suggests some users prefer to access full-featured web sites using the zoom capabilities of the phone's Safari browser rather than cut-down versions intended for the native screen dimensions. That said, a web interface designed for the touchscreen can be easier to use, and may be given a similar look and feel to other iPhone web applications while retaining the organisation's branding.

So far, only a subset of the capabilities of the main Qantas site is available on the iPhone version, namely timetables, lounge information and contact details. On the Jetstar side of the business, travellers can see standard and sale fares, schedules, destination information and contact details.

But this will broaden over time. "Qantas Group customers will eventually be able to arrange their whole travel experience using the iPhone, from searching fares and timetables, to booking flights, selecting seats and on-line check in," said Qantas CIO Jamila Gordon.

Gordon claimed the airline was only the third in the world and the first in the southern hemisphere to specifically cater for iPhones. "Qantas will soon be offering its customers the same services available on the iPhone on other mobile devices such as BlackBerry and smart phones," she said.

Page two explains how you can explore the Qantas iPhone experience from your desktop.