CSL debuts new online ad format

HONG KONG - Mobile service provider CSL this week became the world's first advertiser outside the US to use the new 'expandable half banner' format on Windows Live Messenger.

The new banners, created by US-based digital advertising solutions company Double Click, expand to almost double the size of the standard banners available on the instant messaging service, also known as MSN Messenger.

When rolled over with a mouse, the banners, measuring 234 x 60 pixels, expand to 300 x 250 pixels and can play video and audio. Consumers can then choose to view the video at full-screen size.

CSL is using the format, available exclusively in Hong Kong outside the US, to promote its One2Free mobile MSN product.

Pixel Media is selling the format.