USNews.com (I won’t link to it) is using a remarkably obnoxious technique to help its advertisers but infuriate readers: banner advertising that turns on audio you don’t ask for. I’m not sure whether simply loading the page is enough to set off this noise, or whether it happens when when you accidentally move your mouse over the ads.
I’m working in an office today. The ad that just blared out of my speakers was discussing erectile disfunction. Now there’s a conversation starter.
So: I’m now making a point not to visit USNews.com. In a sense, then, the ad was effective — in driving me away.
on Jul 27th, 2006 at 1:22 am
Graffiti.net email also has this. Ther’s of late has been the sound of a f’n mosquito. … it’s quite annoying.
on Jul 27th, 2006 at 1:43 am
When I visited the USNews site … nothing happened, due to the fact that I’m using firefox with the adblock plus plug-in turned on. But you’re right, intrusive ads are utterly annoying. Can’t understand why they are so eager to shoot themselves in the foot.
on Jul 28th, 2006 at 12:33 pm
Just saw one like that for Dell at the Washington post. Sigh.