The Allstate Drivewise app provides near real-time updates with each trip and aims to give consumers easier access no matter where they are. The app is available for free download in Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

“Allstate has introduced various mobile technology over the last few years and this continues our strategy to be more available to customers and in a way they want and find easy to access,” said Justin Herndon, a spokesman for Allstate.

Mobile features
Before using the new Drivewise app, customers must register the application by entering their user ID and password – which must initially be set up online.

The Drivewise program is available in 16 states, including Missouri, Indiana, Minnesota, Maryland, Utah and Washington State.

Drivewise measures things such as mileage, braking, speed, and time of day when a customer is driving. Using that data, Allstate calculates a discount for each customer using its telematics technology.

Upon signing up for and using the device, customers automatically receive a 10 percent enrollment discount and after the first six months of use, the enrollment discount is replaced with a performance discount based on the driving habits demonstrated.

“In all 16 states currently operating with Drivewise, we are notifying consumers who sign up and will also notify the current customers,” Mr. Herndon said.

“External efforts like our national news release helps provide more information through media channels, as well,” he said.

Mobile portfolio
In 2011, Allstate gave college football fans a chance to win a car and trip to the BCS National Championship game via a text-to-win sweepstakes (see story).

Last year, the company ran ads in the Tapjoy mobile ad network that let mobile phone owners call for a quote and earn virtual currency or gain access to premium content (see story).

“Mobile continues to be an important play for Allstate and you will continue to see a push toward mobile accessibility that connects our customers and offers all sorts of great products in a way customers have shown they like to be connected,” Mr. Herndon said.

“We’re excited about the future mobile presents us,” he said.

Final Take
Rimma Kats is associate editor on Mobile Commerce Daily, New York