Smarter shopping on-the-go: Consumer Reports launches mobile services

Furthering its mission “to empower consumers to protect themselves,” Consumer Reports introduces a new mobile platform that enables consumers to access its deep database of reviews, ratings, reliability studies and much more—while shopping.

The service is free to the more than 3.2 million subscribers of ConsumerReports.org. Non-subscribers can sign up for 24-hour or 30-day access for $.99 and $4.99 respectively, which will be charged to their wireless bill.

“With CR Mobile, shoppers can access Consumer Reports’ Ratings and product data directly on their phones,” said Jerry Steinbrink, Vice President, Publishing, Consumer Reports. “Using our powerful information where they shop will help consumers choose the best products for their needs - and help them steer clear of sales tactics that might not be in their best interest.”

CR Mobile provides data by category including Cars, Appliances, Electronics, Home & Garden and Babies & Kids through any mobile device with Web access. Users can access Ratings, reviews, video (via iPhone and Android phones), product comparisons, poll results, buying advice, user reviews, brand reliability information, the latest news, and blog posts.

Consumers can register for CR Mobile at m.consumerreports.org. ConsumerReports.org subscribers can access the information for free by signing in with their existing username and password.

Users can also sign up to receive product safety and recall alerts via text messages. To access the feature, consumers must text the word SAFE to 76666 to receive alerts as safety news breaks.

About Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports is a nonprofit membership organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education, and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.

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