Apple's recent iPad Pro advertisement has sparked significant controversy in the past, now leading to a strong response from Samsung.
The Apple Crush ad, which aimed to showcase the capabilities of the new iPad Pro, faced backlash for its portrayal of creative tools being destroyed by a hydraulic press. In reaction, Samsung released its own ad, promoting the Galaxy Tab S9 and emphasizing that "creativity cannot be crushed."
Apple's ad, unveiled during the launch event of the new iPad Pro on May 7th, depicted a hydraulic press crushing various creative tools. Instruments, paint cans, books, and camera lenses were all shown being smushed before revealing the new iPad Pro. The intent behind the Apple Crush ad was to illustrate how the new device can replace multiple creative tools. However, the ad was met with widespread criticism.
Many viewers interpreted the Apple Crush ad as a negative commentary on how technology can overshadow traditional creative methods. Critics argued that it symbolized the suppression of creativity by big tech companies. Social media users and various creatives, including Hugh Grant, voiced their concerns about the ad's message. In response to the backlash, Apple apologized, stating that the ad "missed the mark" and assured that the goal was to celebrate creativity, not undermine it.
In response to the controversy, Samsung released a new ad for the Galaxy Tab S9. The ad, created by BBH USA and directed by Zen Pace, portrays a musician navigating the aftermath of Apple's hydraulic press incident. The musician discovers a damaged guitar and begins playing it with the assistance of the Galaxy Tab S9.
The tablet displays musical notes, highlighting its capability to support creative endeavors. The ad concludes with the message "creativity cannot be crushed," directly addressing the controversy sparked by Apple's campaign.
Samsung shared the new ad on social media with the hashtag "UnCrush" and the caption "never crush creativity." The campaign highlights the features of the Galaxy Tab S9, including its AI capabilities and its suitability for creative tasks. The timing of the ad coincides with the availability of the Galaxy Tab S9 series, starting at RS 72,999.
Regardless, while Apple’s iPad Pro ad intended to showcase the device's versatility, it inadvertently sparked a debate on the impact of technology on creativity. Samsung seized the opportunity to promote its Galaxy Tab S9 by emphasizing its commitment to supporting creativity. As the controversy unfolds, both companies continue to vie for the attention and loyalty of their creative user bases.
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