Digital Marketing Remainders

XLNT Ads Launches: Another entry in the growing field of players aiming to help agencies outsource their ad creation to the masses. (press release)

Google Files for an In-Game Ad Patent: Actually, this is a dusty patent, dating to last fall; but it was just posted to the USPTO’s Web site, so has now become news. A method for “using information from user-video game interactions to target advertisements, such as advertisements to be served in video games for example.” (via MIT Advertising Lab)

Enpocket Signs an Agency Partner: Minneapolis agency Carlson Marketing will work with Enpocket to enable its loyalty marketing, employee recognition and events with mobile components. (press release)

European Utes Get Free Ad-Supported Phones: British start-up Blyk will offer U.K. teens a free phone service with ads from Coca-Cola, L’Oréal and Buena Vista, according to a story in The Guardian. Blyk hasn’t responded to my queries, but it’s noteworthy to see an actual instance of completely free cell phones supported by marketing offers, which scenario has been hypothesized for some time. The proof will be in the details. How much of this service is subsidized, really? If kids still have to pay for incremental calling and messaging, it may fall flat. Ditto if the advertising is relentless.