The Guardian
trending topics
Close Box

Our news

Yes, it’s true: We are joining GigaOM...


Microsoft Signs Mobile Ad Deal With Hyatt

  • Comments Comments (View)
  • Text Size: A A

Microsoft (NSDQ: MSFT) has signed a deal with Hyatt to put the hotel chain’s ads on Verizon (NYSE: VZ) phones, on which the software giant is the default search engine. Bloomberg reports that the deal to be announced at today’s Cannes Lions advertising conference is part of Microsoft’s attempt to turnaround its faltering ad business by moving beyond PCs.

Not many of the deal’s details have emerged just yet. Apparently, the Hyatt ads will take users to the chain’s mobile web site and will allow people to sign up for the chain’s loyalty program, as well as letting them book rooms and check in through their phones. Chicago-based Hyatt has some 370 hotels in 44 countries.

SEE ALSO: Microsoft Plunges Into Mobile Advertising With Verizon Wireless Deal

The deal is one of the first since Microsoft’s began its run as Verizon’s default search box last month. Though there has been debate on whether users will eventually bypass default engines to seek out the search engine of their choice, for now, these default arrangements are increasing traffic. Microsoft’s GM for mobile media Charles Johnson told Bloomberg that in the first 20 days as Verizon’s default search, Microsoft’s mobile search handled 19 million queries, 10 to 15 times the previous rate. Microsoft reportedly paid $550 and $650 million to secure the 5-year exclusive deal to beat out Yahoo (NSDQ: YHOO) and Google.

According to Sanford C. Bernstein, mobile advertising revenues will reach $7.2 billion by 2012. Much of that mobile ad revenue is expected to come from search engine ads.

Jun 22, 2009 6:19 AM ET

Microsoft Verizon Logo


Posted In: Advertising, Mobile, Search, Technologies / Formats, Companies, Microsoft

(Page 1 of 1)


The Bestsellers

From iTunes and YouTube to Facebook and Kindle, the most popular content on the web, free and paid.

iTunes Apps (Free) iTunes Apps (Free)
1. Ski On Neon
2. Save The Pencil
3. Temple Run
4. iMob 2
5. Cut the Buttons
See The Other Bestsellers »

Jobs RSS Job Listings

Social Standing

Which media brands are getting a lift from Tweeters and bloggers right now -- and which are getting panned?

"Sentiment" Scores for All the Companies »

Sponsors

Staff