Apple, inc.

Apple is one of the most successful modern corporations that lives and breathes design. Steve Jobs' iPod started a craze which has spanned generational gaps, bringing music and sleek design to all ages in all parts of the world. Part of the lure of Apple is the way that it is portrayed; as a simple, but bold design. iPod advertisements are traditionally composed of a dark silhouette dancing to the up-beat music of their iPod in front of a brightly colored background. The simplicity of these advertisements allows Apple to connect with their consumers because it does not overload the senses, or push the product too much. Modern advertising is done in many ways, with numerous techniques used by corporations to attract consumers to their product or service. The success of these very minimized and simple iPod ads shows that the consumer is more affected by one quick "wow," rather than a sensory overload of confusion and propaganda.

By using a silhouette, Apple allows the viewer to become a part of the advertisement; that black shadow of a person could easily be you, or someone you know. This lack of detail opens up the advertisement, helping the consumer to relate to the product and feel comfortable or excited by its representation. The use of a bright background also draws the consumer in, simply by catching the eye and adding a sense of liveliness to the product. Finally, the iPod itself draws the viewer in, but not by being loud and intrusive. Rather, focus is drawn away from the actual iPod, subtlely ingraining it in the minds of consumers without being annoying.

The simplicity of Apple’s iPod commercials is a well-thought out design which has reaped its reward in the mass consumption of the sleek mp3 player. Apple’s success is due, in great part, to the success of its advertisements; proving that understatement and simplicity are the key to keeping consumers interested.