Justin Long, who famously portrayed the laid-back, hip “I’m a Mac guy” in Apple’s iconic advertising campaigns from 2006 to 2009, has surprised fans by appearing in a new ad for Windows PCs. The ad, which was released by Intel in December 2021, marks a departure from Long’s previous affiliation with Apple and signals a new chapter in his career.
In the ad, Long plays a character named Dave, who is in need of a new laptop. He visits a retail store and is pleasantly surprised by the range of options available in the Windows PC market. As he explores different models and features, he is impressed by the performance, versatility, and affordability of these devices. The ad ends with Dave exclaiming, “What? Things change!”
Long’s decision to appear in a Windows PC ad comes as a surprise to many, given his long-standing association with Apple. The “I’m a Mac guy” campaign, in which Long played the cool, confident Mac user opposite John Hodgman’s befuddled PC user, became a cultural touchstone and helped solidify Apple’s position as a leader in the tech industry.
However, Long’s move to promote Windows PCs is not unprecedented. In recent years, he has taken on a variety of roles in film and television, showcasing his range as an actor and demonstrating his willingness to take on new challenges. His decision to appear in the Intel ad reflects his openness to exploring different opportunities and aligning himself with brands and projects that resonate with him.
The ad is also a testament to the changing landscape of the tech industry. While Apple has long been known for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and loyal customer base, Windows PCs have made significant advancements in recent years, offering a wide range of options for consumers at varying price points. By starring in the ad, Long is helping to promote the diversity and innovation of the Windows PC market and encouraging consumers to consider all their options when purchasing a new device.
Ultimately, Long’s appearance in the Windows PC ad is a reminder that change is inevitable and that embracing new opportunities and experiences can lead to growth and personal fulfillment. As he navigates this new chapter in his career, fans can look forward to seeing Long continue to surprise and inspire audiences with his talent, versatility, and willingness to try new things. After all, as Dave says in the ad, “What? Things change!
