We were among those who were quite surprised that Microsoft gave into the online criticism of its "buddy" ads starring Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates.

As we noted, the ads were getting a ton of people talking, and set up plenty of opportunities to later plug Microsoft products.

But, initially, they were just entertaining (if slightly awkward) content that did a good job bringing in viewers.

Instead, Microsoft replaced it with the somewhat boring "I'm A PC" spots,...