by Sarah Townsend

I haven’t used Internet Explorer in oh, about 5 years, and I probably won’t again (ever), but that doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy this potentially viral video Microsoft released celebrating the launch of Internet Explorer 8.

This LOL-worthy video campaign takes us on a trip down Internet memory lane and features cameos from B-list comedians, web-celebs, and clips from classic viral vids and websites (hello, Chawlee Bit Me & the Hamster Dance!) Microsoft seems to be relying heavily on the influential power of social media to help promote IE8, and has even setup a website to encourage sharing.

In my opinion, this definitely beats the Bill Gates + Jerry Seinfeld #fail campaign last year. That being said, it doesn’t excuse the fact that the browser has been… le suck compared to Firefox.

Here are the new features that reportedly increase speed and enhance security:

-Accelerators, right-click functionality to map directions, translate words, email your friends and more.
-InPrivate browsing designed to shield your browser history (they say shopping, I say embarrassing Google searches/porn).
-Web Slices, which appears to be a “create your own iGoogle” via your toolbar.
-Search suggestions, self-explanatory yet helpful.
-SmartScreen, filters to protect you from potentially harmful websites.

See more about IE8 here.

Do you think this campaign, or the features, will give IE8 the boost it needs?

___

Sarah Townsend
E-mail: theoneinpink[at]gmail[dot]com
Twitter: theoneinpink
Blogs: The Vibe, TechDarling.com

Tagged as: browser, IE, internet explorer, Microsoft, microsoft social media, software