The camera of tomorrow... now in human form
UnderCurrent predicts that the cameras of the future will have lenses as perfect as the human eye and zooming as fast as a sprint down the race track. But why wait for the future?
Thu 16/05/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Refrigerators and Robots will never be together at last
"Do you have a name for your car or bicycle? Do you ever find yourself talking to inanimate objects? Do you yearn for the day when household robots are as common as refrigerators?"
Wed 15/05/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Cooking for cricketers? Choose seafood over duck...
UnderCurrent is always happy to see good cooking rewarded, and $7,000 worth of Beko appliances for coming up with a quick recipe seems like a pretty good reward - especially if it grabs the attention of a sporting legend.
Tue 14/05/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Buy a washing machine, shoot an albatross
UnderCurrent is not quite sure what the link is between washing machines and golf but it sure is interested to find out...
Tue 07/05/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Beko beckons Mums with Look Who's Talking homage
There's no better time to launch into an above the line TVC campaign that after some bad press. So UnderCurrent doffs its hat to Beko for releasing three advertisements in support of its retailers.
Fri 03/05/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Lasso a customer with the new Lasoo app
UnderCurrent loves a new app! And this sounds like a good one. The new Lasoo app will help consumers with their omnichannelling while also helping retailers speak directly with their customers.
Thu 02/05/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »India goes Psy-chotic for S4 Samsung Style
UnderCurrent likes many, many things but nothing comes close to how much it loves the extraordinary lengths Samsung went to at the launch of the Galaxy S4 in India.
Tue 30/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »See Better Homes than yours, thanks to The Good Guys
If you've been wondering how to make a herb garden, how to cook an "egg and bacon celebration", or you just want to see some shiny new appliances, Better Homes and Gardens Live is coming to Melbourne, and UnderCurrent is excited.
Mon 29/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »The eyes have it at Samsung Galaxy S4 launch
UnderCurrent is a massive fan of infographics so it was well chuffed to find that Samsung has created a bespoke visual aid to highlight all the extra special features it has packed into its feature-overloaded, well-featured Galaxy S4 handset.
Wed 24/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Cygnett is no ugly duckling with Samsung Galaxy S4 cases
In advance of the Samsung Galaxy S4 launch tonight, Melbourne-based digital accessories company Cygnett has unveiled a very strong and eclectic range of cases.
Tue 23/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »You're The Voice with Philips new dock and microphone
Sensational stuff from Philips today! UnderCurrent is best pleased by the release of the Wireless Microphone and iPad Speaker Dock, which can be used with an iOS app to recreate the magic of The Voice in one's own living room.
Thu 18/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Rob-a-dub-dub: E&S Trading's novel approach to consumer education
E&S Trading has always had a particularly strong retail website, with blog posts, competitions and plenty of consumer education videos. In its most recent video offering, the retailer really gets in the deep end.
Tue 16/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Samsung mixing sport and culture with Opera House sponsorship
Samsung Electronics has a strong global heritage in sports marketing, having originally sponsored the Sydney Roosters and the Essendon Bombers. In a change of pace from this fast-paced world, Samsung is now Opera House's biggest supporter.
Fri 12/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »He did it! Gerry Harvey correctly predicted that he would beat you
UnderCurrent is a real history buff so it greatly appreciates Harvey Norman helping to plug the gaps in the potted history of that great famous retail brand.
Thu 11/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent's seven classic commercials from a simpler time
Here is a collection to stir the memories and remind us of a time when Clive Peeters sold beds, technology came to Queensland, video cameras weighed a tonne and digital watches cost $2.
Tue 09/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »JB has always been home to mad prices
UnderCurrent was quite impressed by this little effort at dynamic signage, seen in JB Hi-Fi's Parramatta store in Sydney...
Tue 09/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Space & Walkmans & Bowie & Sony
Following on from UnderCurrent's recent hat doff to Samsung, another has spotted another TVC that originally bypassed its (apparently decreasing) eagle eye...
Mon 08/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Samsung's rarely bearable washing machine...
It's taken UnderCurrent a few months to find this gem from Samsung: a washing machine advertisement that doesn't need any hipster mocking to amuse and entertain
Fri 05/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »He may not beat Rupert, but Gerry's doing fine
UnderCurrent thinks today might just be the day for Harvey Norman employees to be asking for a pay rise, with the company's co-founder and chairman Gerry Harvey being named on the BRW Rich Bosses List for 2013.
Thu 04/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Tech Toys in Music Videos: the Brilliant and the Bemusing
Apple, Sony, Nintendo, HTC: all brands that have infilitrated music videos over the years. Here we present some of our favourite examples from down the years...
Wed 03/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »At Leading Appliances online, the future is Coming Soon...
UnderCurrent was chuffed to see Leading Appliances go live this week - both in the traditional bricks and mortar sense and the newfangles website way.
Tue 02/04/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »FRESH, FRENCH AND FUTURISTIC: appliance poetry perfected
One of things UnderCurrent loves about the popularity of the French Door Fridge category is the possibility presented to marketing types for alliteration.
Mon 25/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »'I simply must have Kleenmaid appliances'
UnderCurrent was amused to see a Kleenmaid sign inside a kitchen cabinetry store in Sydney yesterday...
Thu 21/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Too much Kevin on their minds
When it comes to selling a tablet, forget the benefits for business customers or the fantastic applications and accessories. As Google has made clear to UnderCurrent, it's all about playing the name game.
Wed 20/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Consumers have the right to be happy
UnderCurrent would like to wish everyone in the appliance and electronics industry a Happy World Consumer Rights Day!
Fri 15/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »'Totally and utterly fed up with price, price, price'
Beko MD Mike Goadby promised not to use price to sell Beko when the brand was launched in late 2011. UnderCurrent wonders just how well that is going.
Wed 13/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »When small appliances and beauty pageants collide
UnderCurrent is feeling a bit nostalgic today, and so it was with great delight that we happened upon this delightful gem, celebrating the fine arts of small appliance manufacturing and pageant modelling.
Fri 08/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Is Dick Smith's memory cheap or merely small?
UnderCurrent was sorely tempted to invest in a new 32GB MicroSD Card when it received this tantalising offer in a Dick Smith direct marketing email yesterday...
Wed 06/03/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Winning at killing managementspeak
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a manager managing a company must be in need of some managementspeak. That is why UnderCurrent was thrilled to read the latest post on John Winning's winning blog.
Wed 27/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Fisher & Paykel gets crafty with its latest ad hero
UnderCurrent loves a bit of cross-media promotion, but we can't remember the last time a marketing team came up with the idea to promote its brand through the medium of knitting...
Mon 25/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »And that's what makes One Direction headphones sales beautiful
It appears UnderCurrent was wrong to mock the release of One Direction headphones. Over 40,000 units of these officially licensed headphones have been sold, at $40 each. And that's before a single unit has arrived in Australia.
Fri 22/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Wisdom from Mr Microsoft himself
UnderCurrent couldn't resist the opportunity to take a look at what makes Bill Gates tick. As one of the biggest names in tech, the former CEO of Microsoft talks about Windows 8, new products, the Large Hadron Collider and Spinal Tap...
Tue 12/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Panasonic GH3 and Ray Martin...Another Logie?
To showcase the video recording features of the new GH3, Panasonic asked its unpaid brand spokeshairpiece Ray Martin to play around with the settings while filming several nuptials on Saturday afternoon.
Tue 12/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »At F&P, the best celebrity spokeschefs are the ones you don't pay
The only thing better than signing on a celebrity spokeschef is to turn on the TV and see a celebrity spokeschef using your products for free.
Wed 06/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Sony excites gamers with PlayStation 4 teaser
The rumour mill is in overdrive about upcoming console releases from the major names in gaming, but Sony is one of the few brands to actually put forward a concrete date...even if it's just a teaser.
Mon 04/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Get ready for the year's biggest tech ads, served up in one big Super Bowl
Next Monday is going to be all about Ravens, 49ers, the Harbaugh rivalry and good ol' fashioned football. But for the big tech brands, it's all about advertising. As UnderCurrent gears up for the big day, some brands are getting in early.
Fri 01/02/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Bread maketh the Breville, but what goes inside?
With the launch of the retro-styled Original '74 jaffle maker, UnderCurrent took a look at the special tips and recipes that Breville is offering consumers to get them toasting up a storm.
Tue 29/01/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Listen to the Coldest 100 on Yamaha Australia Day headphones
UnderCurrent knows that the music is very important to the hip young things on Australia Day. So well played to Yamaha for tapping into this market with its new Australia Day themed limited release headphones.
Wed 23/01/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent's lighter side of CES: Suitcase & Transparent TVs, Nokia and more
Crazy TVs, a fallen giant, creative business models and a great brand name all shine in UnderCurrent's lighthearted wrap of Day 2 at the 2013 International CES.
Thu 10/01/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent's lighter side of CES: Sony, Samsung, Marley and more
UnderCurrent thoroughly enjoyed its first day of the 2013 International CES! There was plenty of fodder for its lighthearted and at times cynical look at the electronics industry.
Wed 09/01/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Best Buy electronics vending machine the future of retail?
A Best Buy electronics vending machine caught UnderCurrent's eye while in Las Vegas for CES. Pretty much any gadget that can fit into a vending machine slot is for sale.
Tue 08/01/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »How to wear the 25 Best Headphone Brands of 2012 all at one time
Some might say it's difficult to listen to all 25 pairs of headphones at once but UnderCurrent, with the help of a very talented designer, has managed to mock up what this might look like.
Fri 04/01/2013 12:00:00 / Read More »Merry Christmas from Current.com.au, see you in 2013!
Merry Christmas from the team at Current.com.au! Today is our last day of regular service before taking a break for the holiday season. We will be back with full coverage of the 2013 International CES from Las Vegas on Monday 7 January 2013.
Thu 20/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »LG's new Magic Remote an impressive addition to an impressive TV
UnderCurrent was pleased to learn that LG Electronics Australia has announced a new Smart Remote for use with its high-end, internet-connected TVs, such as the 84LM9600, an 84-inch Ultra HD TV, winner of 2012 Digital Product of the Year.
Thu 20/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Top 10 Biggest UnderCurrent 'Stories' of 2012
UnderCurrent had a stellar year shining a mocking light on the lighter side of industry - or so it claims. UnderCurrent is dedicated to showcasing the best and worst of the industry, from fantastic viral videos to appalling marketingspeak.
Wed 19/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »The perfect Christmas lunch in 10 festive appliances
If there is one thing UnderCurrent loves more than Christmas (and associated carols) it's appliances. And top 10 lists. And food. And cooking. Conveniently, we have all these things in the one place. All your Christmases have come at once!
Mon 17/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »OFFICIAL ONE DIRECTION HEADPHONES!! FINALLY!!!!
It had to happen eventually - a new range of headphones officially licenced by teen heartthrobs One Direction has been announced. There were a lot of exclamation marks in the release, UnderCurrent noticed.
Wed 12/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Hisense promising 7 different types of TV, including Transparent, at CES 2013
Hisense is promising an incredible array of television technologies for its stand at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in January.
Tue 11/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »'A dimly lit tour of the new Winning Group head office'
UnderCurrent visited The Winning Group's funky new head office in Redfern, south Sydney, today for a dimly lit tour of the new premises housing Winning Appliances, Appliances Online, Big Brown Box and PowerBuys and The Handy Crew.
Mon 10/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Welcome to Everland, the Samsungiest theme park in the world!
You know you've made it as a consumer electronics brand when you have massive global sales, a strong consumer following and your very own Korean theme park. But UnderCurrent suspects only Samsung ticks all three boxes...
Wed 05/12/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »UPDATED: Great product (cup holder speaker), terrible name (iiCHPHSiG)
A late starter today for UnderCurrent's favourite product of the year: the iHome iDM9 Cup Holder Portable Bluetooth Speakerphone in Graphite - terrible name, great idea. UPDATED: Now with a similar product, superior name.
Thu 29/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Motorola's most pearlescent sentence of the year
UnderCurrent almost fell of its unusually low high horse today when it read this incredible paragraph from Motorola Mobility regarding the release of the new white RAZR M...
Tue 27/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Retravision Southern counts the cost of failing business
Forget the money owed to banks, customers, suppliers and other creditors, the biggest financial fallout from going into administration seems to be the cost of hiring liquidators.
Mon 26/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »5 per cent off Apple? UnderCurrent prefers a lump of coal this Christmas
UnderCurrent remembers the days when you were lucky to get a ripe apple in your Christmas stocking. But kids these days want so much more. Thank goodness Apple is hosting a sale, with the most mediocre discounts on the interweb.
Fri 23/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »New HSBC retail credit card application only has 50 fields to complete
UnderCurrent's Sentence of the Day award goes to HSBC for its media release promoting a new retail credit card application that only has 50 questions to fill out.
Thu 22/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Click Frenzy frustrates Hitler, delights rival online pure players
UnderCurrent thoroughly enjoyed the disaster that was Click Frenzy. It would have tried to get online to buy some unwanted tack at 1 per cent off too if it weren't too busy trawling the internet for Downfall parodies...
Wed 21/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Panasonic eclipse of the heart
Panasonic Australia filmed the solar eclipse earlier this week using its own equipment, powered by the sun. UnderCurrent was impressed.
Fri 16/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Sony knows hipsters...and the cameras they use
Are you a try-hard nature blogger or a clueless hipster? Then Sony is keen to give you a ribbing for having "no idea" about good camera gear. (Let's just hope you don't own a Sony DSLR...that would be awkward).
Wed 14/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Panasonic 'invests' in consumer electronics division with new appointments
Panasonic has announced a raft of new appointments to its consumer electronics product marketing and sales teams, with new contacts for digital imaging, air conditioning and power tools, as well as a new channel manager for Narta.
Tue 13/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Electrical retail tips from the fruit shop experts
UnderCurrent knows that no matter where you are or what you're selling, the retail experience is the same. It's all about customer service, good product knowledge and knowing the difference between apples and oranges.
Wed 07/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »E&S Trading dominating the hipster space with its Instagram heroics
UnderCurrent is mightily impressed by the hipsters at E&S Trading! Not content to undertake fashionable social media projects like Facebook or Twitter, E&S has been Pinteresting and Instagramming.
Tue 06/11/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Influencers, not users, are the key to Windows Phone 8 global domination
Windows Phone 8 will soon be the most popular mobile operating system in the world. That's the message UnderCurrent overheard at the launch today of Microsoft's new mobile operating system and the handsets that run it.
Tue 30/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »RIP Hitachi GST, mourns UC
UnderCurrent's favourite sentence of the day goes to the talented PR scribe who penned this delightful note in a press release announcing that Hitachi Global Storage Technologies was being rebranded as 'HGST, a Western Digital company'.
Mon 29/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Winning at Windows 95
UnderCurrent has noticed that a lot of people are getting excited about tonight's launch of Windows 8. But let's take a moment to think back to the launch of Windows 95, a time when grunge fashion and bandanas were king!
Thu 25/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Retail 101: Everything looks better when you add an adorable puppy
UnderCurrent is a big fan of cute animals, and an even bigger fan of retailers who sell seemingly dull products and services with the help of an emotional connection.
Mon 22/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »They don't make them like Hotpoint anymore
Need tips on how to sell the features of an appliance on the retail floor? Take a lesson from a master of smooth talking and old-school salesmanship.
Thu 18/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »When my baby smiles at me I buy a National portable camera
Remember the days of National television sets? Remember the days of matching National portable video systems that gave you a back ache carrying them around? Remember Peter Allen? What a great combination...
Mon 15/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Retravision fire sale continues, good bargains and crockery to be had
After three Retravision Southern stores collapsed earlier this year, GraysOnline held a fire sale to help bring in some cash to pay off debts. There are still great bargains on offer, as well as a few items that caught UnderCurrent's eye.
Thu 11/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »The Commodore 64 is on top of the world...literally
Did you know that computer hackers existed in the 80s? Did you know that they used real computers? Did you know that the Commodore 64 is great for the whole family regardless of hacking aspirations? Read on!
Wed 10/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »The most "absurdly useless" appliance of them all
UnderCurrent tips its hat today to its friends at the Appliances Online Blog, who have listed the six most "absurdly useless" small appliances. Here is its favourite...
Tue 09/10/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent pays tribute to a true Gladiator of the industry
UnderCurrent loves a bit of nostalgia. And with Appliance Retailer magazine celebrating 17 years next month, it seemed only appropriate to take a look back at the very first issue.
Thu 27/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »BlackBerry wakes up to give us some loving, and an awkward apology
If your most recent product launch was late and your last PR campaign was widely criticised, what do you do? If you're BlackBerry, you launch a video tribute to app-developers that is more awkward than every highschool disco...ever.
Wed 26/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Under a blood red Galaxy S III
Samsung's new garnet red Galaxy S III smartphone caught the eye of UnderCurrent when it visited the Sydney Experience Centre earlier today.
Tue 25/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »At Harvey Norman online, exclusivity comes cheap
Exclusivity comes in many forms: the money-can't-buy experience, the one-of-a-kind product and the six-figure sports car with extra zoom-zoom. But at Harvey Norman, we can all afford our own slice of exclusivity...
Mon 24/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »It's the same price as an iPhone 5, but much more mobile!
Sure the iPhone 5 might seem appealing, but what if I'm a lifeguard or scout leader and I want to spend $799 on a phone that I can really take anywhere? UnderCurrent has just the thing for you...
Fri 21/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »The changing face of Retravision...from yesterday's future
UnderCurrent loves a blast from the past, and the program from Retravision's national seminar in Canberra, 13 years ago, certainly makes for great reading.
Thu 20/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »iLuv a dogged brand endorsement (and so does UnderCurrent)
Ludacris, Justin Bieber, AC/DC, Quincy Jones, Usain Bolt, Cesc Fabregas and Snoopy Dogg can all move aside - there's a new dog in town.
Wed 19/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Nespresso finds success unveiling the new U
Nespresso celebrated its fifth year at the IFA trade show in Berlin this year, using the opportunity to show off the new U machine to trade visitors and consumers, after a successful launch in Australia.
Mon 17/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Sensationally expensive Marantz dock a triumph of audio and adjectives
What has both luxury (marketing) materials and a tremendously impressive RRP? The answer is the latest Marantz iPhone dock.
Mon 17/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Service is selling...and this is killing...
UnderCurrent is a big believer in customer service - it's the one thing a bricks and mortar store can always do better than any online site. It does, however, think this American retailer has gone a little too far...
Fri 14/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Bosch Germany puts its fridges through a real test of toughness
Das UnderCurrent was very appreciative of the translation services provided at IFA in Berlin last week, but perhaps the switch from German to English confused a few attendees at the trade show.
Wed 12/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »This $11,000 "catalogue special" looks Sharp
UnderCurrent was more than happy to make fun of Sharp's creative use of the English language to promote its new enormous TVs so it's only fair that it chips in with a hearty compliment.
Tue 11/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Harvey Norman's OLED Xmas wish: no more marketing fluff
Not only is UnderCurrent excitedly looking forward to checking out OLED TVs in Harvey Norman this November-ish, it's also looking forward to see if any of the suppliers follow Harveys' sage marketing advice.
Fri 07/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Pioneer pioneering new meta heights with song about listening to music
UnderCurrent loves a good company song! And this one by Pioneer to promote its new speaker range is just as impressive as the, erm, speakers that the song is about...
Thu 06/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »iPhone 5 to start at $799, claims UnderCurrent (with help from Sportsbet)
Although UnderCurrent is upset not to be iNvited to the official launch event of the next iPhone, presumably called the iPhone 5, it is happy to report, perhaps exclusively, how much it will cost.
Wed 05/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Comparing Dyson to the American Sharks...
UnderCurrent understands that floorcare is currently gripped in a battle between bagged and bagless but, until today, it did not realise there was a second war raging, between a well-mannered English engineer and a screaming American.
Mon 03/09/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »The craziest looking fan we've ever seen
With spring set to begin this weekend, it will soon be time to unpack a cooling appliance for the upcoming summer. UnderCurrent can't go past this bizarre concoction from one of Australia's greatest inventors.
Thu 30/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Printing menus on T-shirts doesn't sound like a good idea, but...
UnderCurrent wastes a lot of energy making fun of marketing speak and appalling public relations, so it's only fair that it doffs its cap when something truly outstanding comes along.
Wed 29/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »'I sense it's a big weekend for Hisense'
UnderCurrent senses that there will be some cheers and whoops at Hisense this weekend should the Cronulla Sharks beat the Melbourne Storm to secure their place in the Finals.
Fri 24/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Quietly recycling Kogan the ultimate ironicist?
UnderCurrent wonders how the most publicity hungry importer of TVs could be so shy to discuss the one genuinely newsworthy thing he's done in a long time.
Wed 22/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »A Meri place for your next PR event
UnderCurrent recommends the try-before-you-buy approach to choosing a location for your next corporate event.
Mon 20/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Stan Cash is king...and a cowboy too
While there are plenty of retailers that have updated their old advertising jingles with ultra-modern marketing campaigns, there are some old gems that have stood the test of time. Enter Stan Cash, the tin shed cowboy...
Fri 17/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Doors vs Drawers in refrigerator wars
UnderCurrent loves the idea of placing a door within a door, as is the case of LG's new refrigerator range. Still, it's no match for this Sanyo fridge...
Thu 16/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Windows 7: the OS of choice for the criminally insane
UnderCurrent was amused by the intriguing promotion of Windows 7 notebook PCs in its latest catalogues...
Tue 14/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Acer races to the brand ambassador lead with Sally Pearson deal
Acer has raced ahead, with its spokeshurdler Sally Pearson celebrating her win in the Women's 100 Metre Hurdles by using an Acer laptop - at least that's what UnderCurrent was told.
Fri 10/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Star struck by Lumix GF5 creative filters
Being the playful type, UnderCurrent enjoyed getting its talons on the new Panasonic Lumix GF5 Micro Four Thirds camera. Opinions were divided, however, on the popularity of one particular creative filter...
Thu 09/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »BenQ sponsors the other other Games
Pro athletes unite! BenQ has announced it will once again sponsor the games this year - the Intel Extreme Masters Tournament that is. Hardcore gamers competing for fastest mouse click and best headset? You better believe it!
Wed 08/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Breville taking on Kenwood in the battle of the colourful characters
While Kenwood has absolutely no peer in regards to colourful colour characters, there is a new flash in this flashy pan: Breville. Check out its new range and marvel at the creative names given to the shades...
Tue 07/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Gold, Silver and Bronze in Olympic branding race revealed
Which big money brand ambassadors are doing their benefactors proud in London right now? UnderCurrent identifies one doing a great job, one doing well and one who is hardly living up to expectations.
Mon 06/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Harvey Norman's heroes show the London brand ambassadors how it's done
While all those "athletes" spend their time "competing" for "glory" in London, UnderCurrent is delighted to see that the real heroes of the sporting world have hit Harvey Norman to show off their skills in brand endorsement.
Wed 01/08/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »2012 London Olympics start tonight so you'll need a Strong PVR
UnderCurrent's London-based Cockney uncle 'arry UnderC'ent Aye is very excited about the start of the 2012 London Olympics tonight. He's got all the details the industry needs to make the most of the Games...
Fri 27/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Day 55 of WOW watch, and we're still waiting
It's been almost 2 months since WOW Sight & Sound's new bronze presidential owners were due to launch their online store. No news yet, but UnderCurrent can reveal what the store may soon sell...
Wed 25/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »That's Bush Australian Green and Gold my friend
Joel Milburn has left his desk at Bush Australia and landed in London for the biggest fortnight of his life. Take a look at the industry's Olympic representative in his finest livery.
Tue 24/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Introducing premium Brisbane marketer-retailer Videopro
UnderCurrent did a double take this morning while tuning in to watch Fox Sports News. There among the non-stop ads for online insurance agencies was a rare TVC for Brisbane-based AV specialist Videopro.
Mon 23/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Harvey Norman's geeks will show us the way
Stereotypes are a great way to save time, so UnderCurrent couldn't help but be impressed by Harvey Norman's use of generalisations to help explain technology.
Thu 19/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Kambrook products run over by a tank, blown up and Jawed to death
In a new YouTube series, Kambrook will be showcasing the durability of its appliances by destroying them is some amusing, extreme scenarios.
Tue 17/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Drop it like it's hot: Neff finds an unlikely cooking fan
While most cooking brands choose celebrity chefs to promote their brand, UnderCurrent thinks there is some seriously untapped potential in the world of gangster rap cooking endorsements.
Mon 16/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »American Express caught out Astroturfing in war with Visa
The war of words between credit card providers Visa and American Express took a deceitful turn today, with American Express employees posing as merchants to criticise Visa's campaign.
Thu 12/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Home is where the recall is at Woolworths
UnderCurrent has some advice for Woolworths, which has been forced into its fourth recall for the Abode brand in just over 12 months.
Thu 12/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »For Fisher & Paykel, a Product Recall is good PR
UnderCurrent was amused to read an exchange on Twitter between a journalist and an affected Fisher & Paykel consumer
Wed 11/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Dear UnderCurrent: Will you teach me how to be a hipster?
UnderCurrent recently received this letter from a faithful reader enquiring after tips on effortless cool. We were happy to provide, with a little help from the new Olympus advertising campaign.
Fri 06/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Harvey Norman's Dodgy new Las Vegas competition
UnderCurrent can't wait to enter Harvey Norman's new Facebook competition - first prize is the chance to represent Australia in dodgeball at a tournament in Las Vegas
Thu 05/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent revels in 'resolutionary' channel strategy for Apple iTV
UnderCurrent overheard a very interesting conversation yesterday while conducting a private training session in a local watering hole. It was all about Apple's long-rumoured 'iTV' product, and how it will be sold to consumers.
Wed 04/07/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Mystery buyer makes unsolicited offer to purchase David Jones
UnderCurrent would like to know which British company made a surprise and "unsolicited" offer to buy David Jones Limited overnight.
Fri 29/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Leaked TV sales figures reveal interesting results for brands big and small
UnderCurrent has come across the TV sales figures by brand for May 2012. Normally a closely guarded secret, these figures offer a rare insight into the flat panel TV market.
Thu 28/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »E&S Trading opens for filming at 7 O'Block
The Victorian based retailer caught UnderCurrent's attention with a recent staff cameo on the popular TV show.
Wed 27/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »BlackBerry's fabulous cliche collection
Stage two of BlackBerry's infamous Wake Up campaign involves outdoor advertising focused on more indecipherable messaging.
Tue 26/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Namedropping Sony taps Richard Roxburgh for new TVC
UnderCurrent is a noted namedropper, so it definitely appreciates Sony's use of Moulin Rouge! star Richard Roxburgh in its latest TVC.
Mon 18/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Optus comes to UnderCurrent's iPad recharge rescue
After UnderCurrent experienced an unfortunate price hike in Telstra's iPad data plans, it was relieved to have Optus come to the rescue.
Fri 15/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Netgear's guide to avoiding Apple's wrath
If at first you don't succeed in obtaining naming rights, try again with an ever-so-slight variation on the theme...
Thu 14/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Telstra reassures iPad users they'll get the same GBs for more $$$
Well played to Telstra, which has written to iPad data customers informing them of a 20 per cent price increase in the cost of a 365-day data plan - from $150 to $180.
Fri 08/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Dyson proves it's a fan of high concept marketing
Check out the bus shelter ad for Dyson's new Hot Cool (AM04) - the product is part of the display. Very cool for a freezing winter morning.
Wed 06/06/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »David Beckham scores a goal for tenuous product placement!
Nothing says "buy our new device" like a famous soccer player showing just why he's so much better at life than you are. But at least you can use the same Samsung product (although his is no doubt prettier than yours).
Mon 28/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Rdio up for an AIDA
UnderCurrent's favourite music streaming service, Rdio, has been nominated for UnderCurrent's favourite accolade: an Australian International Design Award.
Fri 25/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Fujitsu finds success with tested formula of cash and cricket
Following the launch of Fujitsu's Free Money campaign for winter 2012, the company says it has had its most successful year yet - and the association with one of Australia's top sporting identities hasn't hurt either.
Thu 24/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Harvey Norman seeks geeks
Those who like to keep their IQs in the high 120s should be interested in Harvey Norman's new competition - the search for Australia's geekiest geeks.
Thu 24/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Spotify not available to all music fans, so go with cheap shot JB Now
UnderCurrent can't listen to Spotify, which launched in Australia today, so it's going to have settle for the entry-level JB Now.
Tue 22/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »For a few dollars more, you can get less than you paid for at GAME
Now that GAME vouchers are worth 25% of the value they held before the retailer went into administration, the shine has worn off the store's trade-in deals. One customer will be particularly upset about GAME's latest console sale...
Wed 16/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Aussie iPunters rejoice: you can now bet on Apple's share price
Australian corporate bookmaker Sportsbet has framed a market on the performance of Apple's share price over the next 18 months.
Tue 15/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Samsung's theme song is great for Korean Karaoke
Samsung's company song is a belter: it explains why you can fly higher with the use of smartphone or French Door Fridge - and the lyrics are on the music video so you can sing along.
Wed 09/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Sing along to Panasonic's company song
UnderCurrent has stumbled upon a real beauty: Panasonic's company song, as performed by opera star Sarah Brightman.
Tue 08/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Has Harvey Norman flown over the cuckoo's nest?
Harvey Norman is a name most commonly associated with computers, whitegoods, TVs and electrical products. But that doesn't mean that the average Joe Hayseed should miss out on the Harvey Norman shopping experience!
Wed 02/05/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Forget DubStep: Asko has DishStep
Skrillex may have some new competition in the hierarchial world of dubstep, with Swedish appliance company Asko releasing this dishwasher-infused music video.
Mon 30/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Cashbacks beginnen zu Hause fur Nespresso
Das UnderCurrent was best pleased earlier this week to see that Nespresso is a big lover of cashbacks for Mother's Day the world over.
Thu 26/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »UPDATED: A journey through time-saving appliances
Undercurrent loves a bit of nostalgia, especially when said nostalgia is related to appliances. Come with us to a time before iPods, before ionic hairdryers and before the modern conveniences we take for granted.
Mon 23/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Introducing a new cooking brand: Ele Trolux
Il UnderCurrento couldn't help but notice the troubles being caused by a missing letter from the brand name of one of the world's biggest appliance companies.
Thu 19/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Olympus celebrates its pedigree
Olympus in celebrating the 10th anniversary of its arrival in Australia. While 10 years is impressive, Olympus has been doing its thing in Britain for much longer - occasionally employing delightful toffs to sell the company message.
Mon 16/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »One Direction - too cool for an iPhone? Certainly too cool for Nokia
Australia is in the grips of 1D fever. The band have previously promoted Nokia handsets, though that experience did not seem to enamour the boys to that particular brand...
Thu 12/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Panasonic treats the hipsters to home theatre heaven with retro iPad interfaces
Panasonic is helping out consumers of its new home theatres systems achieve their hipster dreams by including some outstanding retro interfaces on its iPad app.
Wed 11/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »George Clooney drinks decaf?
Nespresso has a new George Clooney ad to promote its machines in the lead-up to Mother's Day. Spoiler Alert: Clooney drinks decaf...
Wed 04/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Polaroid taking its cameras back to Point Break beach
Iconic instant camera brand Polaroid will this weekend use the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach to introduce its new hybrid digital/instant camera, the 14MP Z340, to the world's leading surfers and their fans.
Mon 02/04/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Rewind to VCR Time with a TVC triple play
A lot of us will be taping Mad Men on our PVRs now those dapper ad men and women are back on our screens. But back in the 70s and 80s, it was VHS and Beta, and the Mad Men produced some fantastic stuff to promote it.
Thu 29/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Harvey Norman plays assassin to its own gaming prices
For two days only, Harvey Norman is offering 50% off many games purchased through its online store. Everyone loves a sale, right? Even if the company is undercutting its own prices?
Wed 28/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »LG's long lost Scarlet fever
Yesterday we featured the best of high concept promotions with Sony's Xperia S. Today, we look back at one of the not so best.
Tue 27/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Sony confuses and delights with new Xperia S smartphone
UnderCurrent was confused and delighted this morning when Sony announced the launch of the new Xperia S mobile handset this morning.
Mon 26/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Whatever happened to the HTC Flyer?
This time last year, HTC unveiled a 7-inch tablet, and the expectation was that Australia would be one of the first markets to receive it...
Wed 21/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Canon's very small Complete Works of William Shakespeare
UnderCurrent was intrigued today when visiting Canon Australia's head office - hung on the wall taking pride of place was a print out of very small text, so small you needed a magnifying glass to see what was written.
Wed 21/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Intel goes for a knock out with global Ultrabook challenge
Intel has taken a novel approach to promoting its new Ultrabook range, travelling all around the world to create a series of challenges for consumers to win computers. Today's challenge? A little lesson on Muay Thai fighting...
Fri 16/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Apple admits new iPad falls far short of the 4G
It's rare to see Apple backed into a corner, but after a week of confusion, the local office has started to make it clearer that the new iPad Wi-Fi 4G is not a 4G tablet at all (in Australia).
Thu 15/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »iSee Rdio has had a Rdesign
UnderCurrent's favourite music streaming service is looking more and more like another of our favourite music services...
Wed 14/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Dell's kooky office space: a world of computers and clones
Dell's latest ad campaign uses a cast of delightfully cute office archetypes to advertise computers. Forget Optiplex technology, we want to know how Dell can clone people!
Fri 02/03/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Things we loved about WOW!
One of the things we loved most about WOW was its innovating marketing, which was not often seen outside its native Queensland.
Wed 29/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Strap on a great upsell opportunity to your next tough camera sale
Tough camera retailers take note: it's very hard to hold a camera and swim at the same time. Thankfully, Panasonic has solved this problem for just under $50.
Fri 24/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Microsoft goes back to the golden era to take a jab at Google
Microsoft has hit out at Google Docs in what can only be described as the greatest tribute to the 1980s this side of The Spandau Ballet Experience. White loafers? Check. Smoke machines? Check. Soft focus? You better believe it!
Wed 22/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »I Am Tropfest: Nikon rewards filmmaker talent
The annual Tropfest film festival celebrated its 20th birthday on Sunday night. Nikon was in on the action, rewarding the director of the top film 'Lemonade Stand' with a camera and lens prize pack.
Tue 21/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Kleenmaid's very painful home movie
Kleenmaid is back in the news today, which reminds us of the one and only video posted to the company's YouTube account. In this video, the Young brothers talk of how painful this collapse has been for them.
Thu 16/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Z1: A Hewlett-Packard Odyssey
The launch of Hewlett-Packard's new Z1 workstation has been anticipated since the Dawn of Man... At least that's what the company's teaser videos would have us believe.
Wed 15/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Is this the worst promo video ever made?
The adjective 'unwatchable' gets thrown around a lot these days, but this video is as close to unwatchable as you will ever see.
Tue 14/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Amazon's latest ad campaign shows you the life you should have
Are you a happy, fulfilled and remarkably attractive consumer holiday on a tropical island? It must be because of your new Amazon Kindle!
Fri 10/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Shop Online! Save 1%! Almost!
Online retailers are notorious for undercutting rivals and keeping prices as low as possible, but is 1% really that big a difference?
Thu 02/02/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Smart is...the cameo appearance of a giraffe in this LG ad
LG Electronics has put together one of the more amusing ads for its 3D Smart TVs. We can't work out exactly the giraffe is doing...
Tue 31/01/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Lining up for Apple products is soooo last year, mocks Samsung
Samsung's advertising battle against Apple continues, with the smartphone manufacturer bringing out more ads in its "Next Big Thing" campaign, mocking die-hard fanboys.
Wed 25/01/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Telstra barely using 1G to promote new HTC 4G Velocity
Considering Telstra's new handset represents a significant step forward in Australian mobile phone communication, it's a touch baffling that the promo video released by Telstra on its official YouTube channel is so low-fi.
Fri 20/01/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »Watch Dyson before it disappears
Dyson UK has 'hit back at copycats' with a new television ad currently airing in the United Kingdom. Called 'Dyson's disappearing parts', the TVC sends a message to both potential consumers and to rival floorcare manufacturers.
Tue 17/01/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »The devilish power of floorcare advertising compels you!
For the first UnderCurrent of the year, we take a look at the power of TV advertising. A simple concept, when executed well, can do even more to sell a product than shouts of "bargains" and "discounts".
Thu 12/01/2012 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent: AVG preaches to the Scientology choir
We don't know if Tom Cruise or John Travolta were in attendance when AVG gave an online security seminar to the Church of Scientology last week.
Mon 04/04/2011 12:00:00 / Read More »UnderCurrent: French Door lawn fridge frustrations
A very expensive French Door Fridge is currently living on a front lawn in northern Sydney because the purchaser didn't check to make sure it would fit through his front door.
Fri 01/04/2011 12:00:00 / Read More »Back in the 80s! When mobile phones cost $11,000
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Telstra is celebrating 25 years since the launch of Australia's first hand-held mobile phone today. It was clunky, expensive, and gave 20 minutes of talk time. But the photos and video of it in action are pure gold.
Thu 01/01/1970 12:00:00 / Read More »
