Google has made a significant update to its definition of ‘top ads’ in order to provide users with more accurate and up-to-date information. The change, which was recently implemented in Google’s Help Center, aims to better reflect how ads can appear in Google Search.
So, what exactly are top ads? Top ads are advertisements that appear above the organic search results, as well as below certain organic results for specific queries. According to Google, these ads are generally positioned above the top organic results, although they may also be shown below the top organic results for particular searches. The placement of top ads is dynamic and can change based on the user’s search.
The reason behind this modification is Google’s previous testing of ads between search results back in October. Patrick Stox, Ahrefs product advisor, noticed sponsored posts appearing in positions where the third and fifth organic results would typically be found. This raised the possibility of Google inserting ads between organic search results, which was later confirmed through trials conducted last year.
This update is significant because it could potentially result in more clicks for advertisers in areas of Google Search that have traditionally been reserved for organic content. By allowing ads to appear between organic search results, Google is opening up new opportunities for advertisers to reach their target audience and potentially increase their visibility and engagement.
It’s important to note that Google has clarified that this change is simply a “definitional change” and will not impact how performance metrics are calculated. Advertisers can still rely on existing metrics and data to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns.
In conclusion, Google’s modification of the definition of top ads is a clear indication that the company is moving forward with its idea to insert ads between organic search results. This change has the potential to provide advertisers with increased visibility and engagement in areas of Google Search that were previously reserved for organic content. As digital marketers, it’s crucial to stay updated on these changes and adapt our strategies accordingly in order to make the most of the opportunities presented by Google’s evolving advertising landscape.
