If you are getting both flash files from the same source, network connections can be made back there to coordinate the animations. In this case that would be an Akamai server. I ran a trace while pressing "start" on the ad and indeed some non-http TCP session data from the macromedia-fcs port (1935) crossed the wire to the same Akamai server. Looks like that's how they might be doing it.
Anders | Homepage | 11.21.07 - 10:30 am | #

It's too bad I can't un-read what you wrote and see the ad again, because I hadn't seen ti before I read your comments, and with your comments it was of course clear what was going to happen.

Still, with all that pointing and the "GIVE UP" lighting up, I think the relationship between the two panels is clear.

At any rate, it might work even if someone doesn't notice the relationship - if you see "GIVE UP ON VISTA" on the top you're going to get the point, and the familiar voices of Mac and PC will draw you to the characters.

I thought the ad was hilarious and fun. Nice work, Apple. What would be obnoxious in anyone else's hands was fun in yours, and that's quite an achievement.

D
Anonymous | Homepage | 11.21.07 - 10:56 am | #

I have a vague memory that they did a similar 2-part banner ad during the last holiday season- something about the two of them hugging and setting aside their differences in the spirit of the season. They might even have been wearing Santa hats. Can anyone confirm this?
Dave | 11.21.07 - 12:36 pm | #

Ya, I totally did not get it until you told me. Saw it yesterday and I just thought that I must be out of touch with ... something.
It should be obvious but it's not. I have trained myself to tune out banner ads. The only reason that I noticed the mac ad was that it looked like one I had not seen before on the Apple site.
Jonathan G | 11.21.07 - 12:50 pm | #

I didnt catch it at first but when I did I was like WOW good ad
Anonymous | 11.21.07 - 2:47 pm | #

Come on they are looking right up at the banner. How more obvious can it be. It is a really clever ad.
John | 11.21.07 - 2:50 pm | #

Since our brains are trained to absolutely ignore web display ads, anything to get some to actually take notice likely dominates any confusion effect.

And, of course, now it's going viral... =)
yet another steve | 11.21.07 - 6:22 pm | #

I did 'see it' as they intended, but whether or not you did, it has to be the most talked about online advertising we've seen...

Creative or what.
Jon T | 11.22.07 - 12:28 pm | #