Mobile music news anyone? Well, Universal has announced a partnership with Graphico New Media and mobile billing service provider Bango to develop mobile sites for seven of its artists, including Girls Aloud, Sugababes, Rachel Stevens and the lovely McFly. These sites make use of Bango's 'browse and buy' technology making it even easier for pop fans to hand over their cash for digital gubbins like ringtones and wallpaper.
Commenting on the development of mobile sites for their artists, Universal Music Mobile's Francis Keeling told reporters: "We want to ensure anyone with a phone can engage with our artists from their mobiles. This direct-to-consumer route to market is very important for Universal".
Graphico's Graham Darracott added: "We are ensuring we make the sites as relevant as possible to the artist's fans by not only providing paid content to personalise their phones with, but also free news, tour dates, and other relevant tips, such as the fashion and make-up tips on the Rachel site, to make fans come back on a regular basis".