- Google testing new “For Your Consideration” ad type
A potentially new ad type (featuring hotels) was seen being tested by Google in the live search results page. The test was spotted directly under a hotel ads carousel (see screenshot below). We haven’t been able to trigger this ad type ourselves yet. We are still trying to confirm which campaign type would feed this type of ad. Standby for more information.
Photo and test spotting credit: Adam Bradley
- ChatGPT announces SearchGPT
A much anticipated announcement, ChatGPT officially announces it’s testing SearchGPT. A new AI search engine aimed at giving users timely answers with clear, relevant sources. We’ve already signed up for the waitlist to get access to the test and can’t wait to play around with it. A big question remains, what will reporting look like for traffic and visibility on this new search engine. Read more here.
- Reddit blocks non-Google search engines
Reddit updated its robots.txt file to prevent non-Google search engines and AI tools from crawling the site. Reddit claims it’s not due to their recent partnership with Google, stating “we have been unable to reach agreements with all of them regarding their use of Reddit content, including their use for AI”. Learn more here.
- Meta expanding Reels Overlay Ads to more brands
Meta is rolling out a new way to advertise within Reels with overlay ads – only available now to select advertisers. We look forward to testing them within client accounts as they become available. Learn more here.
- Google abandons 3rd party cookie depreciation
Instead of extending the deadline (again), Google announces they are abandoning 3rd party cookie phaseout. Instead, Google announced they are rolling out new privacy control options for users as well as continuing to test within the Privacy Sandbox. This doesn’t mean advertisers can breathe a sigh of relief quite yet. Giving users more control of opting out of cookie tracking at the browser level means a lot will choose to opt-out, and with it comes a loss of tracking. We continue to work with our ad platform partners to ensure we are best positioned for this privacy centric future. Read more here.
