Todd Bishop asks Why are these ads for MSN, not Windows Live – I’m wondering why they’d even advertise. Google gets to write snart billboards if they so choose seeing as they’re the big kid on the block (but they don’t, in fact they write smart advertisements), but how does MSN garner that attention? You get a quick – for the most part lost – attempt at wit bundled with an obscure design and that good ol’ MSN logo… but what are they pitching?
Todd’s article digs up the company response:
“MSN is being promoted because it provides an important layer of programmed, editorially selected content that helps ensure our readers stay in the know. Windows Live is a complementary brand to MSN that helps users stay connected with each other.”
Aside from the confusion of two brands in one, there’s obviously some digging for a meaning in that interpretation. Me, I think it’s a reverse attempt at their branding pitch, because even Microsoft wouldn’t want to look dumb.