Apple launched a new TV ad campaign yesterday emphasizing the iPhone’s ability to multi-task (surf the Web, check email, etc.) while on a phone call. The ad ended with the question “Can your phone and network do that?” no doubt an indirect reference to Verizon phones’ inability to do much else while on a call.
AT&T is also highlighting the multi-tasking ability of its phones. Last week they launched TV spots featuring actor Luke Wilson comparing AT&T and Verizon. Wilson asks questions and places an X in the appropriate wireless provider’s column. AT&T receives Xs for fastest 3G network, talking and surfing the Web at the same time, most popular smartphones and access to over 100,000 apps. In the commercial, Verizon gets an X in its column for having a name starting with a V.
All of this is in retaliation to Verizon’s ongoing “There’s a map for that” campaign highlighting their coverage areas and battling AT&T and the iPhone’s “There’s an app for that” line touting the iPhone's 100,000+ downloadable applications.
Verizon also used Apple’s universally known “i” to promote the release of the Motorola Droid. The ads listed things the iPhone can’t do (iDon’t) and concluded with the “Droid does.”
AT&T filed a lawsuit against Verizon, but the case was thrown out by a federal judge last week.
AT&T is the exclusive Apple/iPhone partner in the United States market. The deal is rumored to be up in June of 2010. Analysts have suggested Apple is looking for a new partner to widen its reach, as they have done successfully in other countries. Ironically, Verizon is a prime candidate.
Written by Sharalyn Hartwell
HULIQ.com
Posted November 24th, 2009 by Sharalyn Hartwell
