“What’s a computer?” Should count as one too. But back then we just scoffed at the idea that an iPad can replace a computer. Now somehow we are offended or even terrified by the same absurdity that an iPad can replace a real musical instrument.

I feel like people were very much offended by the "what's a computer" ad too, at least on Reddit.

I am both offended and terrified at the idea that an iPad should replace my computer

Twice means this is really the company vision, not just a bad marketing officer.

There is no vision. All I’ve seen from Apple since Steve died is continued momentum in the same direction.

I was giving them the slight benefit of the doubt for that one, the VP can consume 3D photos and they hadn’t released the new iPhone that can take those photos, so it was more of a derived situation to get the plot to “you can rewatch rewarding 3D movies you took”.

I do agree the test marketing groups are not providing good feedback about secondary interpretations…

I think there is a third option. Deliberate outrage.

People yelling at each other on twitter over your ad is free marketing. Tons of it.

Psychopath? Perhaps a stretch. Soulless? Absolutely. Probably not just VP but whole department if no one raised the voice and said guys, maybe people won't vibe with this.