Yahoo! UK launches pop-up blocker to rival Google

Emma Rigby,, Revolution UK 06-Apr-04, 08:00

LONDON - Yahoo! UK & Ireland has launched a free pop-up blocker, which will be downloadable from its homepage, to rival that offered by Google.

Users can download the Yahoo! Companion Toolbar containing the Pop-up Blocker by logging on to Yahoo!. Once enabled, it allows users to block unwanted ads, view recently blocked pop-up windows and keep a tally on how many pop-ups have been blocked.

A pop-up blocker has been available on rival Google for some time and has proved a popular tool with users.

Dominic Trigg, director of European ad operations at Yahoo! Europe, said: "The presence of pop-up advertising on the internet has been historically viewed as a nuisance by many internet users, an intrusive flow to internet browsing and as such detrimental to any brand attempting to reach its audience in this way."

He added: "With many more big brands advertising online, brand synergy is fundamental and consumer engagement with the brand is key. Advertisers don't want to be associated with disruptive and alienating methods."

He explained that online media spend across all websites is currently 2%, but there is potential for advertisers to spend 9% of their budget online.

"By introducing tools like the pop-up blocker we are aiming to create an environment that will offer cutting edge support for our advertisers, an ever increasing association with our brand -- and a bigger piece of the advertising pie online," Trigg said.

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