Following backlash criticizing the outdated and stereotypical portrayal of Thailand in an Apple ad, Apple removed it and issued an apology. The negative attention follows Apple’s apology for the iPad Pro’s “Crush” ad and its removal from broadcasts in May after it drew widespread criticism among the creative community.
“The Thai people are deeply unhappy with the advertising,” said Thai lawmaker Sattra Sripan said in a statement released by Bloomberg. “I encourage Thais to stop using Apple products and switch to other brands.”
The 10-minute ad, titled “OOO (Out of Office),” was Apple’s latest The oppressed comedy series that depicts a recurring cast of co-workers using Apple products to solve problems in their workplace.
The ad debuted in mid-July and featured the Underdogs team sailing around Thailand in search of a new packaging factory. Thai citizens, lawmakers and influencers criticized the video use of sepia filters and representation of an airport, transportation, clothing and hotels for misrepresenting the country as being underdeveloped.
“Our intention was to celebrate the country’s optimism and culture, and we apologize for not fully capturing the vibrancy of Thailand today,” Apple said in a statement on Friday. “The film is no longer showing.” Apple says it collaborated with a local production company in Thailand to create the video, according to 9to5Mac. The ad has since been removed from Apple’s YouTube channels, although the full version can still be viewed at this report of Campaign.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who had previously promoted the announcement, told reporters that every coin has two sides, reports local newspaper Thairath (translated). Asked by reporters if he was worried “Apple may no longer want to invest in Thailand because the Thai people are against it and will start using Android more”, he said no.
Although Apple’s iPad Pro “Crush” ad is still available to watch on Apple’s main YouTube channel we can only find one of five ads which were released in The oppressedvideo series. We’ve asked Apple if additional videos have also been taken offline and will update if we hear back.