MSN ContentAds contextual ads program expected to soft launch in 2006

[mandy]

MSN names their upcoming contextual ads program 'MSN ContentAds':

MSN ContentAds is their contextual advertising program name and a launch date will be sometime in 2006.

    Introducing adCenter – Microsoft’s Next Generation Advertising Platform Speaker(s): David Jakubowski, Jed Nahum Session Type(s): Breakout adCenter is the next generation of online advertising that will allow you to conveniently plan, execute, and adjust your online advertising programs. Get the insider view of our current search advertising pilot in the U.S., our plans for ContentAds in 2006 and a preview of the innovations we're testing at the Microsoft adLabs.

While it is extremely likely ContentAds will only be in beta for a soft launch in 2006, similar to AdCenter starting off with a small beta, the fact that MSN is planning their program to launch relatively soon in the contextual advertising timeline is very good news to hear.

full article: http://www.jensense.com/archives/2006/02...s_the.html

[bargainbloodhound]

I thought the current AdCenter already included contextual ads.  :-\  AdCenter has a blog now http://blogs.msdn.com/adcenter/archive/2...31882.aspx







MSN doesn't have the reach of either AdSense/Google or YPN/Yahoo so I really don't even care if they have contextual ads or not because I'm unlikely to use them

[mandy]

Update: Content Ads to debut in the USA:

Announcing the U.S. release of Microsoft Content Ads Beta
We are delighted to make Content Ads Beta available to all U.S. customers! On Wednesday, August 29, we will upgrade adCenter to include Microsoft Content Ads.

Microsoft Content Ads allows you to place content-targeted ads on the Microsoft network—connecting you to the right people at the right time for the right price. We’re excited about this release and the choices we are providing advertisers.

What does this mean for you?

    * More reach. With Content Ads, you can access the valued MSN audience on high-quality Microsoft content network pages, starting with day one, MSN® Tech & Gadgets, Money, Real Estate, and Windows Marketplace. Over time, we will introduce the rest of MSN, other Microsoft-owned properties, and premium partner sites. Until now, this premium inventory has been available directly only through the MSN sales team and has commanded premium pricing. Today, we are making it available to everyone at a price you will decide.
    * Automatic Expansion. At the time of the upgrade, your campaigns will be automatically expanded to include content distribution.
    * Key Controls. After the upgrade, you’ll be able to select where your ads distribute (search pages or content pages) and how much you pay per click.

full announcement: http://blogs.msdn.com/adcenter/archive/2...-beta.aspx