Microsoft may not be willing to let Apple have the last word about Windows Vista, after all.
According to a June 20 Fortune Magazine article, Microsoft has earmarked "an additional $200 million for Windows advertising this year, even though in nonlaunch years thre is typically no budget increase at all." It sounds as though this is in addition to the $300 million Microsoft already has agreed to spend with Crispin Porter + Bogusky to improve the company"s overall image and brand.
Fortune explains Microsoft"s image makeover plan, codenamed "FTP168″ (with FTP being "Free the People"): " "A year ago Ballmer okayed the effort, led by Bill Veghte, who is responsible for both Windows and search. He partnered with marketing boss Mich Mathews, then the two recruited an all-star team from across the company - the best experts at branding, packaging, online advertising, and other specialties.... "The aim of the campaign will be to talk about things you can do with your PC that you could never do before."