Microsoft Gets Social for Kin Phone Launch

The average person on Facebook has 130 friends, but most of them aren’t really “friends” at all. That’s the premise of a campaign from Microsoft that introduces its Kin phone, which is pitched as a device designed specifically “for people who are actively navigating their social lives.” Kin, a long-awaited, touch-screen mobile device that was code-named “Pink,” was based on feedback from more than 50,000 consumers in the target 20-something age range. An online and TV campaign was crafted by agencytwofifteen (formerly T.A.G), San Francisco.

How to Reach Affluent African Americans

Are luxury marketers guilty of “leaving money on the table” by missing out on a population segment willing and able to buy what they’re selling? A forthcoming book, Black Is the New Green: Marketing to Affluent African Americans, makes the case that some agencies and clients are doing just that. The book’s authors offer counsel on how to go about reaching “AAAs,” their shorthand term for “affluent African Americans.”

LG Dials Up Mid-Market Strategy

As attention falls on high-end smartphones, LG is focusing where much of the volume is — the middle of the market.

Coca-Cola Goes Mini

Coca-Cola is introducing a 90-calorie mini can, designed to give consumers a better way to manage their calories.

TGIF’s Very Friendly Online Promotion

What happens when a social media strategy takes off faster than expected?

Walgreens Positions Itself as a ‘One Stop Shop’

Walgreens’ new campaign seeks to position the chain as a one-stop shopping destination and healthcare provider.

TiVo, Best Buy Forge Marketing Pact

TiVo and Best Buy have formed a broad marketing and distribution partnership designed to promote and market each of their respective brands. As part of the strategic alliance, Best Buy will increase its marketing and merchandising of TiVo’s DVR.

Facebook, Twitter Boost Krystal Blitz

Krystal Restaurants has kicked off a giveaway to promote its new Krystal Blitz energy drink.