Mobile ecommerce, also known as m-commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services through mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. On the other hand, ecommerce, also known as electronic commerce, encompasses all forms of buying and selling goods and services over the internet, including transactions made through desktop computers and laptops.

Here are some key differences between mobile ecommerce and ecommerce:

1. Device Usage: The primary difference lies in the devices used for transactions. Mobile ecommerce specifically focuses on transactions conducted on mobile devices, whereas ecommerce includes transactions made on various devices such as desktop computers, laptops, and tablets.

2. User Experience: Mobile ecommerce is designed to provide a seamless and optimized user experience for mobile device users. It takes into consideration the smaller screen sizes, touch interfaces, and limited processing power of mobile devices. Ecommerce, on the other hand, caters to a broader range of devices and often offers a more comprehensive user experience with larger screens and more processing power.

3. Contextual Factors: Mobile ecommerce takes advantage of contextual factors such as location, time, and device capabilities to enhance the user experience. For example, mobile apps can utilize the GPS feature to provide location-based offers or recommendations. Ecommerce, while it can also leverage contextual factors, may not have the same level of integration as mobile apps.

4. User Behavior: Mobile ecommerce often caters to users who are on the go and require quick and convenient access to products and services. Users tend to make impulsive purchases or use mobile devices for research before making a purchase later on a desktop. Ecommerce, on the other hand, caters to a wider range of user behaviors, including both impulsive and planned purchases.

Examples:

• Mobile ecommerce: Mobile apps like Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba provide a platform for users to shop directly from their mobile devices. These apps offer features such as one-click ordering, mobile payment options, and personalized recommendations based on user behavior.

• Ecommerce: Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy offer a comprehensive ecommerce experience accessible from various devices, including desktop computers and laptops. These websites typically provide a wider range of product categories and features suitable for desktop browsing.

References:

1. Shopify: What is Mobile Commerce? https://www.shopify.com/encyclopedia/mobile-commerce
2. BigCommerce: What is Ecommerce? https://www.bigcommerce.com/ecommerce-answers/what-is-ecommerce/