Something cryptic is going on. Apparently Microsoft is gearing up for a $300 million "creative consumer assignment" for a "brand new product." McCann Erickson, Microsoft’s current ad agency of choice, is allegedly pitching ideas as is Crispin Porter & Bogusky, ad wizards behind the Burger King commercials.

If it’s being kept secret to create buzz, allow me to future-post some news about this product just to get it out of the way.

11/19/07: Microsoft secret product leaked.
01/15/08: Scheduled date for Microsoft secret product unveiling.
01/16/08: Microsoft reports that secret product will be delayed until 03/15/08.
03/15/08: Microsoft announces that new secret product coming last day of spring.
06/20/08: Microsoft petitions to have last day of spring changed to 11/19/08.
11/19/08: Microsoft denies secret new product existed, promises Vista Service Pack 1 coming by end of the year.

Is Microsoft Set To Roll Out A Brand New Consumer Product? [ActiveWin.com]