Mobile internet seems set to be a major part of the future for safe shopping online, with many online retailers now becoming involved. Consumers are far from strangers to safe shopping online whilst on their mobile devices, with iPhones and other smartphones proving to be ever more popular devices from which to browse and buy whilst on the move.

Recognising this trend, online retailers are accommodating mobile shopping with various initiatives. The latest high street retailer to join the crowd is Argos, which is extending the reach of the argos.co.uk website into the mobile arena with the launch of a new application for Apple mobile devices.

According to Argos executives, some 750,000 consumers used Apple mobile devices in December to access the site. As a result, Argos has been keenly aware as to the potential need for the app for some time. The app has now been created, giving Apple-owning consumers the opportunity to browse Argos' selection of 250,000 products whilst out and about. With the interest generated by the recently launched iPad and the 4th generation iPhone due for release, the timing is perfect.

The app includes a real-time price checker to allow access to up-to-date information about products, together with a stock checker, which also operates in real-time to help avoid disappointment. Also available through the app is user-generated content such as product reviews. Consumers who are unsure as to where their nearest Argos bricks-and-mortar store may be can even use the app's store locator to check.

According to the Argos management team, the app is a logical step for the high street giant in order to keep up to date with advances in mobile technology and the associated changes in internet usage. Recent figures released by Argos also revealed that multi-channel sales at the firm are now accounting for some 50 per cent of total sales, with in-store purchases, mainstream and mobile browsing all playing a part.