Apple iPod Billboard at Center of Boston Political Scuffle

By

Credit: Yoon S. Bryun, The Boston Globe
Credit: Yoon S. Bryun, The Boston Globe

A huge iPod touch billboard is at the center of a Boston controversy, with claims a mayor’s aide helped a political contributor install the ad over the wishes of city regulators. Despite being called “illegal” in 2007 by the Massachusetts Outdoor Advertising Board, a 13,750 banner ad touting the iPod remains in place.

The latest chapter includes a report suggesting Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino endorsed the billboard despite what the Boston Globe calls a “usual discouragement of new billboards.” A campaign aide has admitted helping a top political donor gain approval for the advertisement.


In June, the companies responsible for the billboard paid the state $110,000 to settle the issue. The ad is located on the side of a self-storage building that along with packing tape and locks, sells iTunes gift cards. In 2008 Apple opened its Boston flagship store.

[Via Boston Globe and AppleInsider]

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