MobileXpression is a market research application, run by VoiceFive, Inc., a Comscore company, that collects data on mobile internet usage and rewards users (panelists) with gift cards or other incentives. It's available for both Android and iOS devices.
Here's a breakdown of how it works on Android and what to consider:
How it Works (Android):
Sign Up & Installation: You sign up on the MobileXpression website, answer a few demographic questions, and then download and install the MobileXpression app on your Android device.
Data Collection: Once installed, the app runs in the background. To enable accurate data collection, MobileXpression requires you to:
Activate a VPN: This allows the software to collect URLs from your browser activity.
Enable Accessibility Services: This permission allows the app to track your app usage.
The app monitors and collects information about your mobile Browse and purchasing behavior (including secure sessions), application usage, video streaming, and other activities on your device.
Passive Earning: The main appeal is "passive income." You don't need to complete surveys or tasks daily. As long as the app is active and running, you accumulate credits weekly.
Rewards:
You often receive an initial sign-up bonus (e.g., enough credits for a small gift card) shortly after installing.
You continue to earn credits weekly for maintaining active membership.
Credits can be redeemed for various digital gift cards from popular retailers (e.g., Amazon, Starbucks, PayPal).
Credits typically do not expire as long as you remain an active member.
What Data Does MobileXpression Collect?
MobileXpression is transparent about the data they collect, but it's extensive. Their privacy policy indicates they collect:
Personal Info: User IDs, phone number (for app functionality, analytics, developer communications, fraud prevention).
Device or other IDs: For app functionality and analytics.
Web Browse: Web Browse history (URLs from browsers).
App Activity: Installed apps, application usage, video streaming.
Mobile Browse and purchasing behavior: This includes data from secure sessions (they may use a root certificate to decrypt secure URLs and pages for this purpose).
Other activities: Any other activities you engage in using your mobile device.
They state they do not record or monitor your private conversations, photos, voicemail messages, phone calls, or texts, nor do they record the numbers you contact. The collected data is typically anonymized and compiled into market reports and analyses used by businesses to understand internet trends and patterns.
Pros of MobileXpression on Android:
Passive Income: It's a "set it and forget it" way to earn rewards with minimal effort.
Legitimacy: Operated by Comscore, a well-known market research organization.
Easy Setup: The sign-up and installation process is generally straightforward.
Variety of Rewards: You can redeem credits for various popular gift cards.
Cons and Considerations:
Privacy Concerns: This is the biggest consideration. You are sharing a significant amount of your mobile usage data. While they anonymize data for reports, you need to be comfortable with the extent of data collection.
Not a Major Earner: It provides "extra spending money" in the form of gift cards, not a substantial income. User reviews suggest earning around two credits per week, with 10 credits equating to a $5 gift card.
Battery/Performance Impact: Some users report that the app might slightly impact phone performance or battery life due to running in the background and using a VPN.
Mixed User Reviews: While many users report consistent rewards, some reviews mention issues with customer service, accounts being locked when trying to redeem rewards, or not receiving rewards as expected.
VPN Usage: The requirement to enable a VPN might conflict with other apps you use that also require a VPN, or simply be a personal preference.
Is it Worth It?
MobileXpression can be a legitimate way to earn small, passive rewards if you are comfortable with the privacy implications of sharing your mobile usage data. If you value your privacy above earning minor gift cards, it might not be for you. Always read their detailed Privacy Policy before installing to fully understand what you're agreeing to.