Facebook to Offer Places Deals

Facebook announced today it will soon update its mobile apps for iPhone and Android users, reports Mashable.com. Among the good news is that Android users will now be integrated into the Places and Groups functionality. Apple users will also soon be able to add photos.

Also part of today’s announcement, it was revealed that Deals will become part of Facebook Places. Deals–just as it sounds–is part of the new iPhone app and allows users to find special deals at nearby businesses. At first the new Deals will only be offered to iPhone users, but should soon spread to Android systems too. there are four types of Deals; Individual Deals (for discounts, free stuff or other rewards), Friend Deals (where you and a pal claim something together), Loyalty Deals (for the regulars) and Charity Deals (which allow you to donate to a cause). Early merchant deals include GAP, Chipotle and more…

Location-based marketing is expected to become a fixture in the music industry where opportunities abound to influence fans to buy and receive special offers. For example, for checking into a record store during debut week, fans might get a discount coupon to buy the CD.