Yesterday, Microsoft released a couple of new products designed to poke fun at Google, expanding Microsoft’s already existing Scroogled campaign with new Anti-Google merchandise such as hoodies, t-shirts, and coffee mugs. Google has now responded to Microsoft with a statement.
The Scroogled Campaign: A Deeper Dive
Microsoft explained a little more about their Scroogled Anti-Google merchandise:
“What we’ve found is that this Scroogled campaign has struck a chord with consumers. They really are concerned with the way Google treats them and their privacy. Hundreds of thousands of people have signed a petition, and millions have visited the website. The T-shirts and the mugs are just a way for people to express their concerns with Google in a different way, but sort of a fun way.”
The Scroogled campaign, which began in 2012, aims to highlight what Microsoft perceives as Google’s invasive privacy practices and questionable business ethics. The campaign has included various forms of media, from online ads to television commercials, all designed to make consumers think twice about using Google services. The introduction of physical merchandise like hoodies, t-shirts, and coffee mugs is a new twist, allowing consumers to wear their concerns quite literally on their sleeves.
Google’s Response and the Competitive Landscape
When asked for a comment about the Microsoft Scroogled Products, Google responded in awesome fashion by saying:
Microsoft’s latest venture comes as no surprise; competition in the wearables space is really heating up.
Google’s response is both a clever retort and a subtle acknowledgment of the competitive tension between the two tech giants. While Microsoft’s Scroogled campaign focuses on privacy concerns, Google’s statement shifts the conversation to the broader context of competition in the tech industry, particularly in the wearables market. This market includes not just apparel but also smartwatches, fitness trackers, and other tech-integrated clothing, an area where both companies have vested interests.
It will be interesting to see what move Microsoft now makes in response to this taunt by Google. The rivalry between these two companies has a long history, dating back to the early days of search engines and operating systems. Each new product release or marketing campaign adds another layer to this ongoing saga.
The Scroogled merchandise is available for purchase on Microsoft’s online store, and it includes a variety of items emblazoned with anti-Google slogans and imagery. For example, one t-shirt features the phrase “Keep Calm While We Steal Your Data,” a direct jab at Google’s data collection practices. Another popular item is a coffee mug that reads “Scroogled,” with the “Google” logo cleverly integrated into the design.
These products serve not only as a form of protest but also as a way for Microsoft to engage with its user base on a more personal level. By offering tangible items that people can use in their daily lives, Microsoft is creating a sense of community among those who share its concerns about Google.
You can see all of these Scroogled products from Microsoft over at the Microsoft Store if you are interested.
Source: Slate
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