Advertisements for new electronic gadgets-particularly the first generation of handheld digital devices-celebrated the notion of using technology to accomplish several things at once.

We're pleased to introduce a new column today, Adgadget, a periodic editorial by Ariel Waldman about the advertising behind consumer technology

The Gazelle commercials inform viewers of the company’s buy-back program for old electronics in a fast and efficient way and tell potential traders they “may get more than they think.”