CNN anchors sat behind Microsoft Surface tablets during the channel's midterm coverage, but some viewers noticed the talent using other devices -- notably iPads.
The Surfaces at some points even appeared to serve as a support system for the iPads.
CNN commentators using Microsoft @surface tablets as iPad stand. Facepalm. pic.twitter.com/BPxWTf2zhI— Adam (@adamUCF) November 5, 2014
Even the good people at CNN who have Microsoft surface tablets in their face hide iPad ... - http://t.co/Sz6CpzLrEg pic.twitter.com/7Bam8uyI2G— Melbourneer (@_Melbourneer_) November 5, 2014
A person at CNN familiar with the company's operations said that anchors are not required to use any particular hardware and usually bring their own devices. The Surface tablets were not part of a product placement deal, and were in place to give anchors access to CNN's "magic wall" that helps display much of the channel's coverage. Microsoft owns the company that makes the "magic wall," which can be controlled through Internet Explorer.
Microsoft has already had a bit of trouble with the branding of its surface tablet. The company signed a deal with the NFL to put Surface tablets on the sidelines of games, but had to coach announcers to stop referring to them as iPads.