While posting my comment in the Stephen King thread a moment ago, I thought I would  make an entirely new thread for this bit...

I have noticed in the last couple of King's books I've read (Cell and Duma Key), they are literally (LOL, no pun intended but...) peppered with name brand product placements throughout.  I'm sure other writers have done it, but I've not REALLY noticed them before these two books.  

Personally, I don't like it at all and I don't understand why authors who do this consistently are doing it.  It takes me out of the story in an instant and will reduce the timelessness of the stories in the end.   Are they making money from the mention?  A boost to the promotions for the book?  

What gives?