Picoformats, are like Microformats, but smaller.

Specifically, where a microformat is full XHTML, which I mentioned here previously, a Picoformat is a standard-means for defining markup in small, probably mobile, devices. They are not necessarily in XHTML, and probably not, as XHTML is rather heavy and takes up a lot of screen/memory space. Additionally, writing out long-bits of info take too long on a limited form factor like a phone.

An example Picoformat is the “@” symbol used in an SMS to then specify a location, such as in Flagr or Dodgeball.

Another solution might be something like Zlango’s “picture” dictionary. Using a standard – though rather varied – set of icons, 2 people can “draw out” a message, across language barriers, and convey large amounts of information with minimal clicks. I highly recommend you try out their Zlangulator.

Technorati Tags: microformats, mobile, picoformats, sms, zlango