Microsoft finds friend in Windows 7 ad push: The 'Family Guy' |
Register here for our next TechFlash Live networking event, March 23, featuring an expert panel discussing the future of online advertising.
Family Guy/Image via Fox
Microsoft, meet the "Family Guy." Looking to drum up sales for the upcoming release of Windows 7, Microsoft today announced that it is working with "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane on an unique television event that will air Nov. 8 on Fox. The variety show -- featuring MacFarlane and Family Guy co-star Alex Borstein -- will be presented commercial free by Microsoft in the style of the old Texaco Star Theater.
But the program will go one step further, with Microsoft's ad agencies working with MacFarlane and crew to feature "unique Windows 7-branded programming that blends seamlessly with show content," according to a press release.
"We're working with FOX on innovative brand integrations that will show how the power and simplicity of Windows 7 can enhance the content FOX viewers love," said Gayle Troberman, general manager of consumer engagement and advertising at Microsoft in the release. "We have simplified the PC with Windows 7, and together with FOX, we're simplifying entertainment."
The program -- tentatively titled "Family Guy Presents: Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show" -- will air two weeks after the Windows 7 debut on Oct. 22. The 30-minute show will include live performances, original animations, surprise celebrity guests and more.
AdAge has more details, including additional comments from Troberman who notes that the Windows 7 launch is one of the "largest consumer-advertising investments the company has made."
The partnership actually goes deeper than the 30-minute TV show, with Fox and Microsoft also agreeing to work together on a 12-week college tour that includes Windows 7 demos and Fox-sponsored outdoor movie nights hosted by stars from "Family Guy.".
MacFarlane is a funny dude, but we're not sure he can beat the comedic value of Microsoft's other Windows 7 promotion.
Todd Bishop is co-founder and managing editor of TechFlash. He has covered Microsoft and the technology industry for more than five years, most recently as a daily newspaper reporter and blogger based in Seattle.
READ FULL BIOGRAPHYTechnology Tax Planning – Did You Take The Deduction?
Technology companies require professional advisors who can assist in all aspects of the business. The BDO Technology Practice provides a full range of services tailored to help address the changing needs of domestic and international companies. In addition to core audit and tax services, BDO professionals can assist technology companies with:
· Revenue recognition
· Business combination accounting
· R&D tax credits
· Compensation and benefits
· Business valuations
Backed by 38 national offices and an international network in 110 countries, we have the domestic and global footprint to serve growing technology companies. Contact sphilpott@bdo.com (audit partner), mreeves@bdo.com (audit partner), psmith@bdo.com (tax partner), tzambito@bdovaluation.us.com (valuation), tfiscus@bdo.com, Director, 206.624.2020
Join the Microsoft WebsiteSpark program and get software, support and visibility – at no upfront cost. You’ll benefit from fast and easy access to current Microsoft development tools, platform technology and server products including Visual Studio, Expression Studio, Silverlight, Windows Web Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 Web.
Seattle-based Adhost is a WebsiteSpark hosting partner providing dedicated servers with free Windows Web Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 licensing for three years to Web developers enrolled in WebsiteSpark. Servers are located in our secure data center with SAS 70 Type II certification, 24x7 technical support and 24x7 client access.