Microsoft dumps 'Prepare to Fly' campaign

LONDON - Microsoft has dumped its proposed "Prepare to Fly" campaign, which was due to launch Windows XP next week, in favour of "Yes You Can" in light of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Windows XP, Microsoft's next-generation operating system, is due to launch next week, backed by a four-month $200m (£138m) campaign to encourage users to upgrade to it.



The campaign, created by Microsoft's agency McCann-Erickson, kicks off with a primetime TV teaser campaign, which will be followed by longer 60-second and 30-second ads later this month.



The Windows XP campaign uses Madonna's Ray of Light song, which Microsoft said fits with the positive "Yes You Can" theme.



The TV campaign will be backed by press and poster advertising.



Although it did consider the option, Microsoft has decided not to cancel its planned launch party, which is due to take place in New York on October 25.



Microsoft is understood to have been in talks with New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who spoke directly with Microsoft chairman Bill Gates.



The "Yes You Can" tagline is meant to convey the idea that Windows XP allows users the power to do more -- and do it more easily than they have done in the past.



Windows XP will be Microsoft's most advanced operating system to date and it is hoped that it will boost PC sales, which have been flagging for some time.




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