Google, which is known for nick-naming its Android mobile operating systems for smartphones and tablets after desserts, has chosen a brand-name candy for its 4.4 version that's expected to launch soon: Kit Kat.
Financial terms weren't disclosed for the sweet deal between Google and Hershey, which makes Kit Kat. But the deal shows that naming a stadium or sponsoring a TV show can be seen as old school. The latest marketing craze may be to slap a brand name on a tech product.
Google approached Hershey about six to nine months ago for permission to use the name, said Jennifer Podhajsky, vice president of US chocolate at Hershey, which licenses the Kit Kat brand in the US, while Nestle owns the worldwide brand.
Podhajsky said that Kit Kat's jingle is a good fit for people taking a break to look at their smartphones or tablets. She added that the deal appeals to Hershey because Android hits the sweet spot of Kit Kat eaters, who are typically between the ages of 18 and 34.
"Kit Kat consumers are young, vibrant consumers of candy and chocolate bars, and that's a nice match with Android," Podhajsky said.
