Advertising is everywhere these days. We see it on TV, the internet, social media, and even in games. This advertising tries to persuade us to buy products, often without us realizing it. One of the subtlest forms of advertising is stealth advertising. But what exactly is stealth advertising?
What is Stealth Advertising?
Stealth advertising, also known as “product placement,” is a way of advertising where products are subtly promoted in movies, TV shows, books, video games, and even social media posts. The viewer or reader often doesn’t realize that advertising is taking place because the product is integrated into the story or scene. For example, if an actor in a film drinks a particular brand of cola, that can be stealth advertising.
In recent years, stealth advertising has evolved and is increasingly common on new digital platforms, such as social media and streaming services. Brands have become more adept at showcasing their products in a way that doesn’t seem like traditional advertising.
Question: What are they advertising in this commercial?
Did you notice the smartphone and the headphones? That’s right! In this video clip, you see products from Samsung and the matching Level headphones. The artist is paid to use these products, hoping that viewers will also want to buy them. In 2024, you’ll see more of this subtle advertising, especially with influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Question: What are they advertising in this commercial?
Did you spot the water bottle? Good catch! In this Instagram post, you see a bottle of water from a specific brand. Sometimes, influencers are paid to showcase products, but sometimes they do it without compensation. If we post a photo holding, for example, a bottle of cola, we are also engaging in stealth advertising. In 2024, this has become very common, particularly due to the growth of social media.
Stealth Advertising in Our Daily Lives Not only celebrities and influencers engage in stealth advertising; we can also do it without realizing it. For instance, if you post a photo on social media with a well-known brand of drink in your hand, you are unconsciously helping that brand with advertising. Due to the popularity of social media and user-generated content, stealth advertising is now everywhere.
