American iPod (or Apple iDol)

Launch iTunes today and you'll see the fuss.  Apple is pairing their brand with the Fox hit show American Idol.  Soon we'll see the young artists hawking iPods and iPhones during the show (similar to the Ford and Coke product placements)

This is a big deal.  A perfect tie-in for Apple's brand since it speaks to people's ambitions and families watch this show together.  And it's a boon for the millions of people who vote for their favorite singer every week (use that iPhone!) or download the songs they just saw on TV  (use that iPod!)  And soon I'm sure you'll be able to download entire episodes or seasons you missed (use that AppleTV!)

Another example of Apple's marketing brilliance.  This is great brand awareness and great product usage tie-ins.  More...after the break!