'iGasm' fails to turn Apple on

A leading adult toy retailer in the UK has released an ipod-compatible vibrator. And as though that weren't enough, they've gone ahead and named it the 'iGasm' - of course, what else could you name it? Here's part of the sales pitch from the retailer's website: "Go at it hard and fast with a pounding drum 'n' bass track or chill with an ambient classic.” It plugs into the iPod's headphone connector and vibrates according to the music playing (Divinyls' ''I touch myself"?) The ensuing ad campaign is almost a carbon copy of Apple's famous silhouette campaign. Apple, obviously, are not too pleased. They've asked the retailer to remove all ads & posters relating to the product. It doesn't look like the product will be discontinued any time soon, but you better hurry while stocks last - retail price, $60. And no, I'm not getting a commission.

It's raining, men!

And here I was thinking this sort of thing was frowned upon in Abu Dhabi. Apparently they also have an asparagus special.

(thanks Ash for sending the pic!)

Offensive billboard or just pure genius?

This billboard was the topic of much debate in Chicago a few days ago - it was subsequently torn down; many people found it offensive. The lawyers at the firm in question say they only wanted to stir some debate and they confirm that the results of the short-lived campaign were very positive - with a high number of calls coming in. When you consider the free publicity this firm is receiving (AP, Reuters carried the story and at last count on Google News almost 240 articles have been written and let's not forget radio & TV coverage) I'd say this billboard has certainly served its purpose. My posting on this story makes it 241 articles, so I've done my part as well.

(credit: Washington Post)

Non-Fried Chicken

Anyone who knows me can tell you I'm a KFC fan - regardless of the heart palpitations that follow a crispy dinner box combo. But driving by Nando's on Sheikh Zayed Rd I couldn't help but smirk at their wicked little jibe at the KFC outlet that recently opened up right next door. KFC, there's not much you can say is there?