AdNews' Judge & Jury takes a look at suspected foul play in advertising.
Opening address
Another week, another technology company ripping off ideas from its competitor. You’d think if you are going to borrow another brand’s idea, you could at least venture outside your category. When Android’s Rock, Paper, Scissors hit the big screen at the Oscars, they stole the spotlight – even from Leonardo DiCaprio. It seems Samsung may have caught on to the success of Android’s animated everyday items because its new ad has some familiar characters.
Verdict
Samsung’s Family Hub spot shows a chocolate syrup’s quest for love, just as Android’s ad shows Paper on a quest for friendship - same concept, same googleeyed stagnant objects brought to life through animation. Of course, both have happy endings with Paper finding unlikely friendship with Rock and Scissors and the chocolate syrup making love with a milk jug.
Sentence
It’s hard to be angry at ads that are so damn adorable. Android’s ad has been viewed more than seven million times since its debut in February. Clearly Samsung wanted a slice of the pie, but it has brought the donut emoji to life previously so it’s not a huge stretch it would give life to other food items. As long as the chocolate syrup and milk live happily ever after, no fines apply.
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