Microsoft fights back against Apple's PC stereotype

NEW YORK - Microsoft has hit back at Apple's geeky stereotype of a PC user in its 'Mac vs PC' campaign with an ad featuring a whole host of PC users including Microsoft staff, Bill Gates, and celebrity couple Eva Longoria Parker and Tony Parker.

The 60 second spot, created by Crispin Porter + Bogusky, launched in the US yesterday and marks the abrupt end to the Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates ads, which were widely panned by bloggers.

Microsoft insists the ads weren't pulled because of the criticism and that this was its plan from the beginning.

In the new ad it attempts to highjack the Apple ads, which involve "I'm a PC ..." and "I'm a Mac" dialogue between a geeky suited guy and a chilled out Apple user.

Microsoft's take begins with a PC user who looks very similar to actor John Hodgman who played the geeky PC user in the Apple ads in the US. He kicks of the ad by saying: "Hello. I'm a PC and I've been made into a stereotype".

The viewer is then introduced to PC users around the world including members of the public in a variety of jobs and celebrities such as 'Desperate Housewives' actress Eva Longoria, author Deepak Chopra and musician Pharell Williams who all say proudly "I'm a PC".

Bill Gates also features in the ad declaring: "I'm a PC and I wear glasses."

The spot ends with Microsoft's new tagline: "Windows. Life without walls."

The campaign also includes a where visitors can upload videos and pictures of their stories which will be showcased on the site and used in future outdoor and banner ads.

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